Envision a Healthier Future
Today, the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation launched a new program that will benefit a rapidly growing portion of our community. “Our ability to see is a gift,” says Terri Hrkac, Director of Major and Planned Giving, Health Sciences Foundation. “That’s why the Foundation is focusing its fundraising efforts on the needs of Ophthalmology.”
Each year, thousands of people turn to the Lion’s Vision Care Centre at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre for help. “Thanks to the support of donors, patients are treated with leading-edge equipment that can save their precious vision,” says Dawn Dowson, Manager of Ambulatory Care. “With an aging population, the demand for eye care is expected to rise dramatically. Without the support of our community, the funding for the equipment and technologies we rely on to protect our vision would not be possible.”
A Visupac Camera System is one of the high-tech pieces of equipment at our disposal. “This technology is a vital tool in the detection of Age-Related Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Cataracts, and many other conditions that can rob us of the gift of sight,” explains Dr. Chris Francis, Ophthalmologist at the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. “It helps us detect the problem early – before it impacts your vision. However, repeated use of the equipment we so rely on takes its toll over time. Currently, our Visupac Camera System is in need of replacement.” The cost of a new system is $120,000.
“$120,000 is a small price to pay for leading-edge equipment that could save your vision – and your quality of life – but we need your help to raise it,” says Hrkac. “Your donation to the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre will support world-class eye care here in Northwestern Ontario.”
Lloyd and Verna Gilbart know just how important quality eye care is, and the donations that support it. When Verna’s once-perfect eyesight began to decline, they found the care she needed right here at home. “We were so grateful for the treatment Verna received that we established an Ophthalmology Endowment Fund in the amount of $25,000 so that future patients could receive the same level of care,” says Lloyd. “Eye health is a passion of ours and we are beyond thrilled to see the Foundation continuing our efforts. Verna and I are confident that this community, as it always has, will rise to the challenge and add to the Ophthalmology fund.”
To donate, visit www.healthsciencesfoundation.ca, or call 807-345-4637
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For more information, please contact:
Tracie Smith
Director of Communications
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation
Tel: (807) 684-7111 Cell: (807) 627-9438
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