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Morningview Foundation Provides Lead Donation For Obstetrics
ALLISTON, ON - The Morningview Foundation has announced that it will support the April 21, 2008 re-opening of the Birthing Unit at Stevenson Memorial Hospital (SMH) with a $50,000 donation to the SMH Foundation for the purchase of new equipment. In an unprecedented move, the hospital has agreed to match this initial donation as an indication of the commitment to a revitalized, sustainable Birthing Unit in Alliston. A total of $312,000 is needed for state-of-the-art equipment that will make the Unit more efficient and enhance the service provided by skilled and caring staff.
John Roth of the Morningview Foundation said the recent recruitment of Dr. Alison Barrett, an experienced Obstetrician/Gynaecologist, was a positive step towards the re-opening and the Morningview Foundation was eager to get the official fundraising campaign off to a good start. "We are delighted that the new management has been able to recruit a physician of Dr. Barrett's calibre to Alliston. Our confidence has been renewed and we want to be a part of updating the equipment and ensuring the success of a top class facility at Stevenson Memorial. We are thrilled that the hospital will match our donation, making it possible to acquire four new state-of-the-art fetal monitors," said John Roth. "The Expert Panel appointed by the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care recognized the unique challenges of the new model of care and recommended a partnership for financial aspects of this project," said Gary Ryan, Interim President and CEO. "Community support is one of the vital pillars of Stevenson Memorial Hospital and is essential for the re-opening of the unit. The donation from Morningview Foundation is a tremendous start and we are happy to match this lead gift as an encouragement to our supporters," he stated. Funds will be channelled through the SMH Foundation, which responded to the call from the community for the re-opening of the Birthing Unit and made it one of their priorities for 2008. "The Morningview Foundation has been a strong supporter of the SMH Birthing Unit," said Marilyn Holmstrom, Chair of the SMH Foundation, "their gift towards a viable unit where babies can be born close to home, in their own community, is very much appreciated. We encourage the community to once again show their support for this vital service by donating towards the cause and having their children at Stevenson Memorial Hospital Alliston." The hospital is already searching for a second obstetrician and looks forward to seeing approximately 200 - 300 births in Alliston over the next year. Community members who would like to be a part of the revitalization of the unit may contact the SMH Foundation at (705) 435-3377 ext # 3209. | |
