The Trenton Memorial Hospital Foundation has set a fundraising record, generating $513,295.68 in net proceeds from its 75th anniversary gala.
The event, presented by Scotiabank, was held Oct. 17 at the National Air Force Museum of Canada in Trenton, bringing together community members, businesses and hospital supporters to mark 75 years of local health care.
The evening was especially memorable for Shannon Sturgeon and Clint Taft, who won a raffle prize of a diamond tennis bracelet with an appraised replacement value of $9,100, donated by Steve Marshman Fine Jewellery & Custom Design. Just 300 tickets were available, with all proceeds supporting Trenton Memorial Hospital.
Although the couple were not in attendance, they have been longtime supporters of the hospital. Taft purchased raffle tickets ahead of the event and was shocked when he received a phone call shortly afterward.
When Sturgeon arrived at the hospital with her husband to claim the prize, she thought it might be a gift basket or something similar, as Clint had kept the details a secret. She was shocked to learn that the prize was something much more substantial.
Both Taft and Sturgeon were born at the hospital and have been strong supporters for many years. They are also proud supporters of local businesses, including Steve Marshman Fine Jewellery & Custom Design.
The gala coincided with the public launch of the foundation’s $8.7-million EMERGE Stronger campaign, which has already reached 75 per cent of its fundraising goal. The campaign will fund an Emergency Department expansion, essential medical equipment and health-care technology.
Foundation Executive Director Lindsay Butcher-Dodds said the record proceeds will help advance the campaign and strengthen patient care.
(Written By: Richard Evans)
