“All of the proceeds raised this year are going toward a mammography machine. That’s a million-dollar campaign, and we’ve raised close to $200,000,” said Executive Director Shannon Coull.

The mammography campaign was kickstarted by private donors, and recently given a near-$25,000 boost from “Trump vs. Canada,” a conversation between The Atlantic’s David Frum and Gazette publisher Karen Valihora. The sold-out fundraiser was held at The Regent Theatre July 24.

The $40 for 40 campaign has just kicked off, and will run until the end of the year. If just one third of County residents contribute, close to half a million dollars could be raised.

The mammography machine is the third piece of major medical equipment the Foundation has fundraised for, after successfully securing funds for a new X-Ray machine and CT scanner. 

Once the million dollar benchmark has been reached, the remaining funds will go towards the completion of the build. 

The foundation has raised $26.4 million of its $30 million goal. 

“We’re getting there. We’re excited but we’re also running out of time. We need to have all of our funds raised by 2027,” said Ms. Coull.

The Foundation is cooking up new community fundraising events to get to the finish line. A golf tournament is planned for this October, and they are looking ahead to a benefit concert at Crystal Palace in April, featuring local bands. 

The Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation was founded in 1985 by Don Stanton Sr., Edward Rutter, and Don Walker. For decades, the Foundation has been essential to keeping the hospital up-to-date with advances in medical technology and practice. 

Construction on the first mass timber hospital in North America is well underway and slated for completion in 2027.

Donations can be made at the PECMH Foundation website.