The RVH Foundation is on a mission and residents of Innisfil are answering the call.
Almost $14,000 was raised during Friday Harbour’s recent polar plunge event, which benefited the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre Foundation and the Keep Life Wild Campaign. A large sum of that total was raised by Innisfil South Simcoe Cabinet Chair, Al Gilchrist and volunteer, Anne Smith.
“I am very proud to confirm that Anne Smith and myself raised over $9,000," said Gilchrist. "We are still getting calls from people who want to donate, so it’s $9,000 and counting. A big thank you to everyone who donated and supported us."
According to the RVH Foundation’s website, its vision is to expand the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre’s current site in Barrie to double its size, in addition to the creation of the south site in Innisfil, as it is the biggest town in the region without its own community hospital.
“I am very proud to be involved in the fundraising for the RVH Innisfil South Campus," said Gilchrist. "We have a long way to go with this campaign, but with the wonderful Innisfil cabinet we have in place, and the hard-working RVH Foundation staff, we will be successful. I have no doubt about that."
Gilchrist says that his family has lived in Innisfil for 46 years and seeing the south campus start to take shape is the most important thing that has happened during their time here.
Upon completion, the south site will provide imaging, urgent care, and clinical care, which will include cardiac and cancer diagnostics and post-procedure follow-up and family supports. It's something that's close to Smith's heart.
"I am raising funds in recognition of the excellent care I received from the RVH team during my recent cancer journey," she explained.
Katelyn Dewar, Manager of Donor Advising for the RVH Foundation said the duo's fundraising efforts have been immeasurable.
“We could not be more grateful and proud of Anne and Al for all they have done to raise awareness for the RVH South Campus."
To learn more about the Keep Life Wild Campaign or to make a donation (new donations will be doubled as offered by a very generous donor up to an incredible $9 million), please click here.
