Radiothon Raises Over $92,000
Support from the community went well beyond expectation for the 18th Annual Have a Heart Radiothon. On May 27th the Pure Country 105.7 team broadcast live from the studio to raise funds for the Women’s and Children’s Health Services Department at VJH and our North Okanagan residents and businesses responded to the call for donations.
Over $92,000 was raised for the purchase of equipment essential for the critical care of patients in the Women’s and Children’s Department, and gifts are still coming in.
“Each year we are so appreciative and inspired by the support our community shows for this event. Businesses and individuals from across the North Okanagan step up and accept the challenges to donate and make a difference for our mom’s and babies.” stated Kate McBrearty, VJH Foundation Executive Director.
Turner Gentry, Pure Country morning show host said: “Although this was my first year being involved, it’s not hard to see how much this community cares for our hospital. What an incredible day of giving from the North Okanagan!”
Similar to last year, due to COVID-19 restrictions, donations were accepted online and over the phone. However, new this year, a Drive Thru Donation site was set up at Vernon Jubilee Hospital, allowing individuals to drive thru and make a donation without leaving their car.
Emotional stories were shared by doctors, staff members and families who have been touched by the care they received at the hospital. Stephanie Mundle explained why her family supports the Radiothon, “Five years ago, VJH helped save my daughter’s life. I had a typical pregnancy, but my delivery didn’t go as planned and I needed an emergency C-section. This incredibly scary time was made less so because the professionals looking after us had everything they needed at their fingertips to immediately help our family.”
Donations are still being accepted online or by phone. Funds raised from the 18th Annual Have a Heart Radiothon will go towards purchasing the highest priority needs within the Women’s and Children’s Health Services Department at VJH.