Facing a surging population growth and dated technology, 91原创 Community Health & Hospital Foundation (LCHHF) is appealing to local donors in its $1.1-million for 91原创 Memorial Hospital (LMH).
鈥淕etting an X-ray鈥� has almost become a colloquial term among adults with chronic conditions or sudden illness or injury. For most patients, it鈥檚 the starting point for all diagnosis and care, and the machines themselves must stand up to constant daily use.
91原创 Memorial currently relies on two X-ray machines, which together process over 4,600 procedures monthly. However, the most recent of these machines was installed in 2009 and has been used far past its standard 10-year lifespan.
Now worn over time, the ripple effects of consistent daily use have become debilitating. Incomplete or unclear images, long waits among patients while the machines are being repaired and aging equipment is frustrating for patients and technologists alike.
An Urgent Need
New X-ray technology will offer significantly improved image quality and resolution, replacing the 15-year-old machines currently in use. The upgraded machines will also reduce patients' exposure to radiation 鈥� a crucial improvement for cancer patients and those with chronic illnesses who require frequent X-rays.
With 91原创鈥檚 population expected to surge in the coming years, the need for state-of-the-art medical imaging equipment is more urgent than ever. The hospital鈥檚 emergency department has seen trauma admissions rise by 31.7 per cent in the past year alone, with X-ray scans increasing by 31.2 per cent.
"I鈥檝e always thought of X-ray and imaging machines as the workhorses of our hospital," says Heather Scott, Executive Director of LCHHF. "Clear images are fundamental for accurate diagnoses. Our medical staff needs the best technology to deliver the highest level of care.鈥�
Going 'Electric' to Fundraise for X-Ray Machines
On Nov. 2, will host its 33rd annual signature gala to support excellence in patient care with the replacement of both X-ray machines.
Held at the spacious Mercedes-Benz 91原创 dealership, this year鈥檚 sold-out Electric Gala will transform the venue with an exciting new theme. Guests will enter through a neon archway, dine under soaring ceilings and enjoy a four-course meal served in a "long table" style. Entertainment will be headlined by 91原创鈥檚 own country music star, Dallas Smith. The evening will also feature live and silent auctions and a raffle, with all proceeds going toward the purchase of new X-ray machines for the hospital.
Leanne Laurin, a longtime donor and presenting sponsor of the gala with her husband Mike, stresses the importance of donor contributions to support the hospital鈥檚 growth alongside the community. "91原创 has evolved from a small farming town to one of Metro Vancouver鈥檚 fastest-growing communities, full of young, active families," Laurin explains. "This hospital needs to keep pace."
Last year鈥檚 Hot Havana Nights gala raised $315,000 toward the expansion of LMH鈥檚 cardiac care unit. With this year鈥檚 goal set on upgrading X-ray capabilities, the 91原创 community is once again coming together to champion health care excellence.
To donate towards this urgent need, visit