Skip to content

Foundation Notes: Campaign rolling along

John Moorhouse is communications officer for the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation
12626206_web1_pwn-s-column-moorhouse

Anyone passing by Penticton Regional Hospital is sure to notice the progress that has been made on the new David E. Kampe Tower.

Much of the exterior work on the six-storey tower is nearing completion, although crews are still busy with the detailed interior work. Construction is scheduled to wrap up by mid-December, although the tower won’t actually open until April 29, 2019 to allow time for all the equipment to be brought in.

Fundraising campaigns

The South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation’s campaign to raise $20 million to provide the medical equipment for the PRH expansion continues to roll along. We’ve now topped the $17-million mark.

We’ve also just launched a new fundraiser. Some 300 personalized patio bricks will be laid on the outdoor patio next to the SOS Café’s new location near the main entrance to the tower. For a donation of $1,200 or $100 a month for 12 months, your name can be added to a brick as a lasting tribute of your support for quality healthcare at PRH. For more information, contact our office at 250-492-9027.

Bathtub race support

It’s hard to believe the Great Ogopogo Bathtub Race is already entering its fourth year. The Summerland Yacht Club will be hosting the 4th annual bathtub race on Saturday, Aug. 18 at Powell Beach in Trout Creek. Come and join the festivities and help raise money to equip the PRH expansion.

Racing starts at 9:30 a.m. and continues through to the A Class final at 1:45 p.m. There’ll be children’s activities, a pancake breakfast, concessions and more. Over the first three years, the Summerland Yacht Club has already raised almost $75,000 for the SOS Medical Foundation’s campaign. It’s not too late to register an entry; email info@ogopogobathtubrace.com.

Fashion show breaks record

Congratulations to the Penticton Hospital Auxiliary for another successful Take an Old Bag to Tea fashion show fundraiser. The June 10 event at the Penticton Lakeside Resort saw total proceeds top $15,000, a new record! Volunteer models showed off fashions from event sponsors Sass Boutique, Three Wishes, Mi Amor, and Peaches Lingerie, while dancer Wendy Goudie and guitarist William Leggott added a Spanish flavour to the afternoon. Our thanks to all those who attended.

Eagles flying high

Finally a quick word of thanks to the Provincial Auxiliary to the Fraternal Order of Eagles who donated almost $3,000 from their BC Cancer Fund. The money will be directed towards the purchase of two Stryker recliners in the PRH oncology department. This comes on top of the $12,700 the Penticton Eagles and Eagles Auxiliary presented in May for various other healthcare initiatives. Incredible support!

John Moorhouse is the development and communications officer for the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation. For information on donating, please call 250-492-9027 or visit our website sosmedicalfoundation.com.