Hospital Sunday collection is outstanding
16 May 2007
The annual Hospital Sunday Appeal this year has exceeded all expectations for the Western District Health Service, with the community contributing more than $30,000 so far.
It is anticipated that when the mail-in donations are received, this figure will rise to $33,000, enough to purchase a videocolonoscope for the Hamilton Base Hospital theatre.
Colonoscopies are regularly performed at HBH. The most common reason is the early detection of abnormalities of the bowel. Achieving the funds to purchase the State-of-the -art equipment, enables WDHS to continue to assist with the fight against bowel cancer, the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Victoria.
The response from the community was again outstanding, particularly as the Shire is currently coming through a drought, according to WDHS Chief Executive Officer Jim Fletcher.
He said the instigation of a collection in the rural areas of the Shire was well-received, and contributed to the final tally, which included funds directed to the Penshurst and District Health Service redevelopment.
Mr Fletcher extended his appreciation to the 100 volunteers who visited homes in Hamilton, Penshurst, Dunkeld and rural areas, adding that the board and staff were continually humbled by the generosity of the community.
As it was a busy weekend, many householders who were not at home received donation slips and reply paid envelopes, to enable them to mail in their donations to the Hospital Sunday Appeal.
In previous years the funds received from mail-in donations have significantly increased the total raised from the doorknock, and WDHS urges people who were missed by collectors to take advantage of this option. All donations over $2 are fully tax-deductible and receipts will be issued. Donations to the Hospital Sunday Appeal may also be directed to an area of choice, such as Penshurst or Coleraine Hospitals, if preferred.
Anyone who was not contacted, and still wishes to make a donation, can do so at the Hamilton Base Hospital Reception.
ABOVE: A Barbecue at the Industrial Estate not only appeared to break the drought, but also raised funds for Hospital Sunday.