The High River District Health Care Foundation unveiled a donor recognition wall yesterday (Sept. 9) in the surgery department at the High River Hospital.
Last year, the foundation undertook an operating room project, with the goal of raising $500,000.
“Together, we surpassed the goal and have advanced care in the operating rooms, ensuring that our surgical team has access to the most up-to-date tools,” said Wendy Kennelly, Foundation Executive Director.
The funds were used to purchase two cardiac monitors, a vacuum curettage system, an ophthalmology microscope, a camera head and handpieces, a pediatric-sized urethroscope, an infant panda warmer, and two surgical tables.
The new equipment was possible through a donation from the Quon Family and a legacy gift from Lois Long.
In recognition of the donors, two operating suites will be named the Belford Quon Memorial Surgical Suite and the Lois & Leland Long and Family Surgical Suite.
The Quon Family donation was to honour Belford Quon, who passed away in 2024.
"Belf was a pillar of his community known to many, particularly when he proudly ran Quon’s Grocery downtown. He served on town council, was a volunteer fireman, a founding member of the golf club, an ardent curler, softball player, and fisherman,” a foundation media release said.
The foundation also received a legacy gift from Long, who passed away in 2023, which was left through her estate.
“Lois had a rewarding career as a nurse and was well respected and well known in the community,” the release said.
A variety of local organizations also helped to reach the fundraising goal, such as High River and Okotoks Royal Canadian Legions, Foothills Energy Cooperative, Longview 4-H Beef Club, and more.
The generosity of the community was highlighted during the Dinner and Auction, raising $228,500, taking the foundation over its goal.
“This was a community love affair as it always is in High River,” Kennelly said. “When we come up with a big dream to make healthcare very special and critical for what we need, the community always finds a way to support us, and we're so grateful for that.”
Dr. Chris Warner, Medical Chief of Staff, said that the donation enhances the quality of care the hospital provides.
The advanced equipment will attract over 30 visiting surgeons to work in the two operating theaters and the hospital's endoscopy suite.
“It increases the types of surgical services we can provide in our community,” Warner said. “It's about so much more than medical intervention. We stay innovative and inspired in our work, and we are extremely grateful.”
Last year, 4,215 patients received day surgery and scopes at the High River Hospital.
“There are thousands of people that come through who are grateful to have surgical options here without having to go to Calgary, and they will see this beautiful display of our important donors,” Kennelly said.