DESIRÉE DECOSTE
STAFF WRITER
Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital (PECMH) is proud to be providing care to our community in this time of need as COVID-19 is turning out to be the biggest healthcare challenge of our time.
Our community and Canadians across the country are relying on the care and expertise of our most precious resource – our healthcare workers.
The care team at PECMH is working tirelessly on the front lines to provide care to the patients of the hospital and the people of Prince Edward County. Now, more than ever, PECMH Foundation is concerned for the well-being of those we serve – their care providers, their patients, their donors and everyone in between.
“In the days to come we will face greater challenges than we have already experienced,” said Briar Boyce, communications co-ordinator for PECMHF. “We will get through this by working together and counting on each other, our families and our team at PECMH.”
We’re in this together – and PECMH is seeking community support to help win this landmark battle.
In the midst of this pandemic, the real champions are the ones wearing scrubs. During this stressful time, PECMHF would like to thank each and every healthcare professional at PECMH, as well as all of their leadership and support staff (housekeeping, dietary, maintenance, clerical, administration, etc.) who are working to assist those in need.
Many people have been reaching out to ask how they can help. In response, PECMHF is accepting financial donations to help our PECMH and their front line workers. The unrestricted gifts will support the highest priority needs not covered by government funding.
As you’re likely aware, there is a global shortage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) due to the COVID-19 pandemic. QHC’s current inventory is not adequate and they’ve received no timelines for when more will be coming.
The Foundation’s hoping you may consider reviewing your contacts and reaching out to seek donations of any/all unused and unopened PPE including goggles, face shields, gloves, gowns, Tyvek, masks (particularly N95 masks) to be used by QHC staff and physicians in Picton.
For example, any type of industrial facility, mechanical shops, paving companies, veterinarians and construction companies may possibility have a stock of PPE. QHC will even take expired items such as gloves or N95 masks as they can use those for mask-fit testing of our staff/physicians.
Any assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated. Anyone able to donate may drop supplies off at the Emergency entrance at PECM Hospital (403 Main St., Picton). Items will be kept and used in Picton.
Is there someone in PECMH you want to thank personally? Now is the time to make a gift in their honour and show them how much you appreciate them. Not only will this help to keep their staff feeling supported, it will also be providing them with the resources they need to keep going.
The recipient of a gift will be notified and recognized by the Foundation for providing outstanding care on PECMHF social media channels and throughout the hospital. Help PECMHF celebrate the great work they are doing.
While the Foundation staff are following the social distancing advice by working remotely, they’re still here for you. Please know you can reach PECMHF by calling 613-476-1008 ext. 4502 or through e-mail. They will respond as quickly as possible.
If you are able to support PECMH at this urgent time, please consider making a donation today. Your gift, of any amount, will make a difference. To donate, visit PECMHF’s website at www.pecmhf.ca, call 613-476-1008 ext. 4502 or mail your gift to PECMH Foundation, 403 Main St., Picton, ON, K0K 2T0.
“To all of our Champions of Care, thank you for the hard work you do every day,” Boyce said. “And to you, our donors, thank you. We see you as champions, too!”