32nd Annual Light a Bulb Campaign Launches

­The lighting of a red tree at Vernon Jubilee Hospital is regarded bymany in the North Okanagan as the indication that the holiday season is not faroff. This Friday, the iconic red tree will once again be fully lit to mark the launchof the annual Light a Bulb campaign, supporting health care in our hospital andour community.

This year, thegoal is to raise $275,000 towards urgently needed equipment. On a daily basisour healthcare teams use equipment and tools that have a life span. Last yearalone, more than 9,300 surgical procedures were performed at VJH. This constantusage means there is an ongoing need to upgrade and replace state-of the-art equipment.

“Having access tothe most up-to date tools helps ensure we can focus on innovative surgicalprocedures to make patients better, and get our loved ones home faster,” saysDr. Peter Bosma, VJH Chief of Staff.

To mark theofficial launch of this year’s campaign, Beach Radio will be on site in thebreezeway of the hospital’s Jubilee Building from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m onFriday, November 15.  Throughout the daythere will be special on-air guests speaking about how Light a Bulb impactsthem, and letting people know how they can support the campaign.

“This campaign isa holiday tradition for many, with donations coming from people who give annuallyin memory of loved ones or to acknowledge the wonderful care they received atVJH. Each $35 tax deductible gift will light one bulb on the tree of lights and$500 will light an entire string,” states Kevin Arbuckle – Foundation Presidentand Light a Bulb Chairperson.

There are a numberof ways for you to light the tree: make a secure donation online at vjhfoundation.org  or call the Foundation at 250.558.1362. Or, keepan eye out for the Light a Bulb brochure being delivered to mailboxes throughoutthe North Okanagan this week.

This year, whenyou see the red tree at night, know that your gift makes a difference. Everydollar counts and brings us closer to our goal.