Bill and Mary Dorssers (Image courtesy of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation)Bill and Mary Dorssers (Image courtesy of Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation)
Chatham

Blenheim couple to triple donations to CKHA this March

This month, donations made to Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA) for a new fluoroscopy machine will have three times the impact.

Bill and Mary Dorssers and their family have pledged to not only match donations, but triple them, up to $100,000.

The Dorssers are dedicated to improving local healthcare and education, the Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) said. Adding that through their foundation, they have donated over $300,000 to local hospitals over the past 25 years.

"We know that our hospital always needs support for important projects and equipment that aren't funded by the government," the couple said. "We are committed to helping out in any way we can, because our hospital does so much good for so many in our community, and we hope that folks from across Chatham-Kent will join us."

Fluoroscopy is an important imaging technology that provides real-time, moving X-ray images, which are essential for diagnosing illnesses, guiding medical procedures, and ensuring accurate treatment plans.

"In 2023 alone, over 1,700 fluoroscopy exams were performed at CKHA, supporting patients of all ages and across a wide variety of hospital departments," stated CKHAF President and CEO Christine Mitchell.

The foundation noted that the hospital's current machine is nearing the end of its service life and a replacement is needed.

"Upgrading this technology will mean shorter wait times, improved accuracy, and better outcomes for patients in our community," Mitchell said. "Ensuring CKHA remains equipped with state-of-the-art technology like this fluoroscopy machine is so important for high-quality, patient-centered care."

Previous fluoroscopy fundraising initiatives like CKHAF's 2024 Giving Tuesday campaign and the recent Igniting Healthcare Holiday 50/50 have already received strong community support. About $330,000 has been raised to purchase the $1-million piece of equipment.

Anyone interested in learning more or having their donation tripled can find that information here. Donations can also be made over the phone (519-436-2538), or in person at CKHAF's office located at 9 Ursuline Avenue in Chatham.

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