The Saint Joseph’s Hospital Foundation is nearing the finish line in its mission to bring MRI services to Estevan and Southeast Saskatchewan. Executive Director Lori Gervais says momentum has never been stronger.
Coming off the success of this year’s Radiothon, which raised $272,000, the community has now contributed more than $5.64 million toward the $6.5 million campaign goal.
“We’re 87 per cent of the way there,” said Gervais. “It’s kind of crazy to say that out loud. It feels like we’re in the final stretch.”
The campaign’s original slogan, ‘Together We Can’, has shifted into ‘Together We Will.’ It's a reflection of the collective energy and effort behind the project. From children at Spruce Ridge School raising money with sundaes to donations from rural municipalities and service groups like the Elks, Gervais said the campaign has been powered by every corner of the region.
“It’s pretty exciting to just celebrate the incredible generosity of everyone in the community,” she said. “It’s amazing what happens when people come together for something bigger than themselves.”
Gervais credits Elaine Walkom, a key early advocate for the MRI project, as the visionary who helped launch the campaign. Since then, she said the effort has taken on a life of its own. One that’s kept her busy year-round.
Between community events, donation tracking, and planning major fundraisers like the Festival of Trees, Gervais said her role has become 24/7. And yes, planning for the 2025 Festival is already underway, even with summer just beginning.
“There’s going to be times you walk into my office and there’s Christmas music playing in June,” she joked.
Despite the demanding pace, Gervais is feeling optimistic. “This isn’t keeping me up at night anymore,” she said. “I’m already seeing that we are going to have a grand opening, a ribbon cutting, and that first MRI scan.”
For those looking to contribute, Gervais said the final stretch is no time to let up.
“We want to thank everyone, but we also want people to stay in it. Whether it’s a big donation or $15, it all makes a difference,” she said. “Even just spreading the word and rallying your workplace can help.”
As Gervais puts it, ‘Together We Will’ isn’t just a slogan. It’s a reality in the making.