Foundation donates $200,000 to BGH

It was with great pleasure that the Bonner General Health Foundation Board recently presented the Emergency Department with a check for $200,000 to help fund recent improvements and upgrades. The proceeds were a result of the 2021 Heart Ball, the foundation’s annual fundraiser.

“We are thrilled to be able to present this check to our incredible caregivers at Bonner General,” said Heart Ball chairperson and board member Georgia Simmons. “We had no idea what to expect this year since we had to hold our fundraiser virtually. The support of this community again continues to amaze me.”

The Heart Ball was held on Feb. 6, with approximately 75-plus people in attendance virtually. The popular dessert auction was held online before the event, with the 21 desserts being delivered the morning of the Heart Ball for the winning bidders’ enjoyment that evening. “It was wonderful to see all the restaurants and private individuals donate to our dessert auction, especially after a particularly challenging year for them,” said Simmons.

During the 75-minute event, there were video testimonials by people whose lives were impacted by their care at Bonner General Health.

“It was powerful to witness people we know in the community who may not still be with us if it wasn’t for the incredible care they received at our hometown hospital,” said board president Justin Dick. There was also a live auction of packages donated by people and businesses and a virtual “paddle raise.”

The Emergency Department had not been upgraded in over 30 years, Bonner General Health Foundation Board members said they were pleased to help contribute to the aesthetic appearance of the Emergency Department and the upgraded equipment for a better quality of care.

“The remodeled Emergency Department has helped improve patient confidentiality and provides more area for movement and flow of patients on stretchers and in wheelchairs,” said Marian Martin, Emergency Department manager. “The new department has provided for a more professional appearance to our patients and families as well increased morale for the staff.  We are grateful for the support from the Hospital Foundation and the community for the funds that are contributing to finishing up the remodel and allowing us to purchase new equipment, such as stretchers, blood pressure machines, cardiac defibrillators, and much more.”

Bonner General Health Foundation is a key developer and trustworthy steward of the resources and goodwill that enable Bonner General Health to provide the highest healthcare quality to our community. Through their philanthropic support of the hospital, they endeavor to enhance the quality of life for those who trust Bonner General Health care for them.

Information: bonnergeneral.org/bgh-foundation

Patty Hutchens is a member of the BGH Foundation Board.