MOUNT FOREST – The Louise Marshall Hospital Auxiliary reached a remarkable milestone this year, celebrating a century of service in support of the Louise Marshall Hospital.
On Oct. 3, the Auxiliary marked the occasion with a celebratory tea at Mount Forest’s Victory Church with past auxiliary president Penny Renken, Perth-Wellington MPP Matthew Rae, Mayor Andy Lennox and Wellington Health Care Alliance CFO James McDevitt in attendance.
The celebration provided an opportunity for the auxiliary to present certificates of recognition to longtime members, including: Kaye Moody, who was recognized for 50 years of service, and Verna Batenchuk, for 35 years.
“We certainly try to help because everybody appreciates our small hospital continuing to be open,” said auxiliary member Cheryle Munn, who also helped plan the event.
LOUISE MARSHALL HOSPITAL IN MOUNT FOREST (Advertiser file photo)
Over the past 100 years, auxiliary members have volunteered countless hours throughout the hospital and have raised money for new hospital equipment.
Past fundraisers have included spring luncheons, a quilt raffle, and the annual Christmas bazaar—which returns following a two-year hiatus on Nov. 19, from 10:30am to 1:30pm, at the Victory Church.
Without the fundraising efforts, the hospital would be without tens of thousands of dollars.
Money raised has helped purchase blanket warmers, ventilators, infusions pumps, vital signs monitors, and furnishings for the palliative care room—not to mention $50,000 for the recent expansion, prior to the pandemic.
Volunteers also donate their time running a booth at the Wellington North Farmers’ Market, and at the hospital’s gift shop, which recently reopened in May.
Today, there are more than 65 auxiliary members who continue building on a strong tradition of dedication and volunteerism.
“I hope it continues like it has in the past,” Munn said.
“It means a lot to a lot of people.”
