'Caring Together' campaign celebrates successful conclusion in Wingham

BY SCOTT STEPHENSON

On Nov. 7, the Wingham and District Hospital Foundation celebrated the success of its “Caring Together” campaign, which raised $3.6 million to fund a new CT scanner for the hospital. The event, held at the Wingham Columbus Centre, offered attendees drinks and snacks while highlighting the contributions of major donors and campaign supporters.

 

Executive Director Nicole Duquette-Jutzi opened the evening by recounting the campaign’s year-long journey, initially set to raise $2.5 million. However, due to inflation and additional project requirements, the goal rose to $3.6 million - a target that Duquette-Jutzi described as very challenging. She credited the local community’s resilience for achieving this increased goal.

 

Britespan Building Systems Inc., a major contributor with a $1 million donation, was recognized for its leadership in supporting the campaign. Britespan co-owner Ben Hogervorst remarked on the extraordinary donation, saying, “We just felt it was time... we’re grateful we had the ability.” Hogervorst explained that the company had saved funds over the years to support a significant community need, noting that most of their employees live within the service area of the hospital, so when this opportunity came up, they thought it was the right cause.

 

Dr. Sean Henderson, emergency department lead at Wingham Hospital, emphasized the scanner’s anticipated impact on patient care, sharing, “I can confidently tell you that this is going to both change and save lives.” Dr. Henderson acknowledged the physicians’ unanimous support for acquiring a CT scanner, essential for accurate and timely emergency diagnoses.

 

Campaign Chair Mark Foxton also addressed attendees, thanking Britespan for its transformative contribution. “I believe this generous gift set an example and resulted in individuals, families, community groups and businesses donating what they could,” Foxton said. He further extended his gratitude to the dedicated campaign team members, including Andrew Kerr, Dayna Deans, Shelley Reinhardt, Angela McPherson and Jenny Hogervorst.

 

The evening concluded with a group photo featuring an oversized $3.6 million novelty cheque. Construction is underway to install the new CT scanner, expected to begin operation by the summer of 2025.