A holiday fundraiser has led to the addition of a Cardiology Clinic at the Blenheim Health Hub.
On Monday, the Blenheim Medical Health Foundation announced that as a result of the community-led ‘Gift That Keeps on Giving’ campaign, the foundation raised a total of $104,000, which will be used to open a cardiology service at the centre.
Chatham-Kent (CK) councillors Anthony Ceccacci, Morena McDonald, and Alysson Storey were in attendance at the unveiling, noting how important these services are to rural communities.
“CK has one of the higher rates of heart disease in Ontario, so I think any chance that we have more cardiology care coming to CK is fantastic news, and I give huge credit to everyone in South Kent that made this a reality,” said CK councillor Storey.
The campaign ran through the month of December with a large wrapped box presented outside of the hub. Each donation, big and small, resulted in a piece of wrapping paper being taken off, revealing the present inside.
“I think that one thing that Chatham-Kent as a whole, but Blenheim has been always known for coming together to recognize each other or to assist. We're also lucky to have some very great community partners,” said CK councillor Ceccacci.
The new clinic, in partnership with Capture Health, will offer 2D echocardiograms, stress cardiograms, holter monitoring, 24-hour automatic blood pressure monitoring, and electrocardiograms, along with both onsite and virtual consultations.
“The entire facility and hub that they're building here is just a testament to the vision of the group that's leading this important cause. Seeing different medical aspects under one roof and the hub really coming to life is just truly a testament to their hard work and dedication,” Ceccacci added.
The cardiology services are expected to begin this spring.
