For the past 21 years the community has pulled together to show their support for the local hospital, and the Bonnyville Health Foundation is hoping they will do it again.
The Bonnyville Health Foundation's largest fundraiser is around the corner, and organizers are hoping the gala's theme is music to everyone's ears.
“Symphony at Sunset” will have attendees of this year's event “floored,” said Alex Smyl, site administrator for the Bonnyville Covenant Healthcare Centre.
Although putting on an event to remember is one of the foundation's main goals every year, they also have their eyes on another objective.
“The annual gala is a fundraising event where we raise money for equipment to enhance services that we serve the people locally,” explained Smyl.
This year, their $100,000 goal is to replace equipment in the orthopedic department, more specifically to purchase new tools used in hip and knee replacement.
The gala is one way the foundation is continuing to build on their equipment and services, all with the goal of providing quality healthcare right at home. Year after year, the community has responded to the need for funding.
“It's heartwarming. It really speaks to the rural experience. When they know they can age in place, access healthcare in place, women can access healthcare here and don't have to leave their families, and parents don't have to leave work to see that their health, or their children's health, is looked after,” explained Cathy Sandmeyer, volunteer chair of the gala.
Smyl agreed the community has always pulled through and shown their support for the healthcare centre.
“The community we live in is unbelievable. We're so fortunate for the people living and working in the community of Bonnyville, people fully support us, 100 per cent. They believe in us and this facility,” he said.
Although he wouldn't get into any details about what residents can expect from the gala, Smyl would reveal attendees should get ready for live entertainment, live and silent auctions, and a meal they will never forget.
Sandmeyer described the gala as colourful, lively, and unforgettable.
“It's the event of the year,” she said.
Pulling it all together isn't easy. It takes over 100 volunteers, hours of preparation, and donations from local businesses, organizations, and residents.
Local doctors also do their part by sharing stories about the importance of excellent rural healthcare.
“We all know Alberta Health can only spend so much in each hospital, but we want our doctors to stay with the equipment beyond the best we can give them. We support the foundation in that way, all through volunteer work and donations from the community,” Sandmeyer continued.
Since its inauguration, the gala has raised nearly $2-million, with last year's event bringing in $147,000 alone.
This year's event is on Saturday, February 17, at the Bonnyville Centennial Centre.
Tickets for the gala are available at the Bonnyville Covenant Healthcare Centre administration desk.
