Foundation scores with Vees

They are among the unsung supporters of Penticton Regional Hospital, but we really can’t say enough about the Fraternal Order of Eagles and the Eagles Auxiliary.

I had the honour of attending the Eagles’ recent cheque presentation evening, along with representatives from a number of other local non-profit organizations.

Several cheques totalling $12,700 were presented to PRH – covering everything from medical equipment for the new tower to such departments as oncology, cardio, pediatrics and renal (kidney) care. The Moog Hospice also gained assistance.

Since the South Okanagan Similkameen Medical Foundation launched our $20-million tower equipment campaign in 2015, the Eagles have donated more than $45,000 and will have one of the new patient rooms named in their honour.

A huge thank-you to all members of the Penticton Eagles Aerie and the Auxiliary – with special thanks to Bob Trask, who has spearheaded much of their generous support for PRH.

Fans chanting “Go Vees Go!” this past season also provided a boost for Penticton Regional Hospital. Gateway Casinos donated $20 for every Vees’ goal scored at the SOEC this past season to help acquire medical equipment for the PRH expansion. A cheque for $2,720 was presented to the SOS Medical Foundation by Michael Magnusson and Lauren Zucchiati of Gateway Casinos at the Vees’ May 15 press conference. Also on hand was David Michaud, the Vees' director of corporate partnerships.

Under their new Community Heroes Program, the Vees will donate at least $1,000 to local charities at all 28 home games in 2018-19. Incredible community support!

Speaking of great support, the Penticton Hospital Auxiliary also stands out. Mayor Andrew Jakubeit was among the dignitaries who attended the May 10 Healthcare Auxiliary Day celebration at PRH.

The Penticton Auxiliary has already donated $214,000 towards their $250,000 pledge to our Tower Campaign – with a further $150,000 coming from the PRH Gift Shop Auxiliary.

Thanks as well to the auxiliaries in Summerland, Oliver and Princeton for their super work in support of healthcare.

One of the Penticton Auxiliary’s biggest events of the year is coming up on Sunday, June 10th from 1-4:30 p.m. at the Penticton Lakeside Resort.

Take An Old Bag To Tea probably has the most unique name for a fundraiser that I know of – but it has been immensely popular over the years.

Sure there’s tea, but it’s highlighted by a fashion show featuring the latest styles from such local boutiques as Sass, Three Wishes, Mi Amor, and Peaches Lingerie. There’ll also be music, dancing and a silent auction and more.

Tickets are $25 each if bought before May 25th – or $30 after that date – available at the PRH Gift Shop, Teas and Weaves, show participants, and from auxiliary members. The SOS Medical Foundation is teaming up with the Community Foundation of the South Okanagan to co-host a wills and estates planning session on Tuesday, June 12, from 2-4 p.m. at the Shatford Centre next to Pen-Hi.

This free session will include presentations on planning your will and estate by Tom Kampman, a lawyer with Kampman Oliver Keen McAndrews in Penticton, and Justin White, a financial advisor with Edward Jones.

Refreshments will be available and both Tom and Justin will be available for questions following their presentations.

Call the Medical Foundation office at 250-492-9027 for more information.