McDonald's Restaurant in Taber joined forces with TDHF

In May of 2023, McDonald's Restaurant in Taber joined forces with the Taber & District Health Foundation for the McHappy Day event. Together, we successfully raised $10,800.00 to enhance resources for Allied Health, a branch of Alberta Health Services (AHS) operating at the Taber Health Centre.

Allied Health at Taber Health Centre comprises a dedicated team of Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, and Speech-language Pathologists who deliver essential pediatric communication, feeding, and movement therapy services to children residing in Taber and the neighbouring communities.

The funds raised from this collaboration have facilitated the acquisition of various resources. These include a new children's rehabilitation treadmill, along with books, games, puzzles, feeding supplies, toys, equipment, and play structures. These items will enhance play-based therapy sessions, making them more engaging for both the children and their families. Additionally, the resources will offer a more extensive variety of environments for the children to learn, develop, and thrive in.

“We are so grateful for the resources that have been provided, which are already well utilized.  As our space is limited, It has been so helpful to have the treadmill to analyze walking patterns, and to provide walking-based therapy to children who walk at a much slower pace.  The new toys have been used every session and it's great seeing kids excited to use the games and activities for therapy purposes.  Thanks again McDonalds and Taber and District Health Foundation for organizing and fundraising for our program.” - Sam Fowler, DPT, Physiotherapist

We wish to thank Jordan Brown and his staff at McDonald’s Taber for their ongoing support of the Taber & District Health Foundation towards initiatives/equipment for children in our community.

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New Stretchers with Enhanced Features for Taber Health Centre

The Taber & District Health Foundation recently purchased five stretchers for the Emergency Room at the Taber Health Centre. These new stretchers are equipped with IsoFlex mattresses to ensure added comfort for patients during their stay.

One of the key features of these new stretchers is the integrated scale system, which automatically calculates the patient's weight. This feature is particularly useful for accurately administering medication and facilitating patient movement or transfers. Moreover, the inclusion of an electric power lift eliminates the need for manual lifting, reducing strain on healthcare providers.

In addition, these new stretchers are equipped with an alarm system that alerts staff in case a patient falls out or attempts to leave the stretcher.   All of these features will add to the safety of the patient and the staff working with those patients.

With the recent upgrades in the Emergency Room area, the introduction of these advanced stretchers is a welcome addition.

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Enhancing Patient Care with Point of Care Urinalysis Equipment

The Taber Hospital's Emergency Room and Acute Care areas have recently integrated the Clinitek Statis Analyzer to improve patient diagnostics and streamline healthcare processes. This device not only facilitates routine testing but also enables the early detection of kidney disease and performs pregnancy testing, significantly enhancing the quality of care provided to patients.

This analyzer will reduce the need to call the laboratory for analysis, particularly during evening hours, ensuring swift and efficient diagnostics for patients in these critical care areas. By providing point-of-care urinalysis, the device supports healthcare professionals in delivering timely and accurate treatment plans, ultimately benefiting patient outcomes. Moreover, the equipment works directly with the Connect Care system, which is a part of the recent healthcare technology implementation in our region. This connectivity enables healthcare providers to seamlessly track and record patient data, contributing to a more integrated and efficient healthcare delivery system.

It is noteworthy that this was made possible through the collaborative efforts with Dairy Queen and their Blizzard Treat Day fundraiser that was held in April. The contributions and assistance from our volunteers and participants in Blizzard Treat Day have made this achievement possible.

Enhancing Maternity Care Through Generous Donations

In the summer of 2022, the Taber Hospital introduced a new birthing option - the birth pool. Thanks to the community's support and generous donations, the Taber & District Health Foundation was able to purchase liners for the birth pool, enhancing the experience for expectant mothers and their families. Furthermore, it has served as an effective tool for pain relief during labour, providing a more comfortable and calming environment for mothers-to-be. Over the past year, Taber Hospital has observed a substantial surge in the overall number of births, including a noteworthy increase in the utilization of waterbirths attended by Registered Midwives.

“In 2023 out of the 64 midwifery births, 26 women were able to utilize the waterbirth program. Women report tremendous pain relief and a positive birth experience when using water immersion, we are very grateful to have this to offer.” - Stacey Peleskey, Midwife.

Notably, Taber Hospital stands as the sole facility in the south zone to offer waterbirth as an available option, further cementing its commitment to providing innovative and holistic birthing services to the community.

Renovations to the Donor Wall: A Celebration of Support

We are thrilled to announce that the long-awaited renovations to the Donor Wall are officially complete! We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has patiently awaited this momentous occasion. Your understanding and support have been invaluable throughout this process.

The Donor Wall stands as a symbol of our community members' unwavering generosity and commitment. It pays homage to the remarkable individuals, businesses, and organizations that have contributed to improving healthcare in our region.

Get Involved: If you would like the opportunity to see your name grace this esteemed wall of recognition, now is the time to take action. Our team is thrilled to assist you in this endeavour. Whether you are an individual donor, representing a local business, or wishing to honour a loved one's legacy, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

To discuss the process of having your name engraved on the Donor Wall, please contact our office. Our dedicated staff will be more than happy to answer any questions you may have. We understand that every contribution, no matter the size, holds profound significance and deserves recognition.

Taber & District Health Foundation is proud to stand alongside our dedicated donors and partners as we strive towards our collective vision of a healthier and thriving community. Together, we can continue to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who depend on us.

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Cheque Presentation- Kiwanis Club of Taber 2023

The Taber & District Health Foundation would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Kiwanis Club of Taber for their unwavering support and generosity throughout the years. Their continued dedication to the community's well-being is truly admirable.

This year, we are especially grateful for the generous donation of $34,817.30 that was raised from the 27th annual Kiwanis Golf Tournament. With their significant contribution, we will be able to provide funding for a much-needed Palliative Care bed for the Palliative Care Room at the Taber Health Centre, ensuring comfort and support for patients in their final stages of life. Additionally, the donation will also go towards acquiring a Qube Adult Monitor for the ER department at the Taber Health Centre, improving the efficiency and effectiveness of patient care in emergency situations. We are tremendously grateful for the Kiwanis Club of Taber's continuous support and commitment to enhancing healthcare in our community.

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Renovation at Pioneer Place Manor - Complete!

The tub-to-shower renovations in 15 units at Pioneer Place Manor are now complete. Thanks to your unwavering support and dedication to our Fall campaign, you became an essential part of something truly exceptional and heartwarming – an opportunity to make a profound and lasting impact on the lives of the incredible seniors in our community.

Your generous contribution not only improved their daily lives but also worked wonders in restoring their much-deserved independence. As a result, your kindness and compassion have left an indelible legacy in the lives of these cherished family members and dear friends who continue to age gracefully with dignity and fulfillment.

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Feature - Meet Aline Holmen

To wrap up the Meet the Team segment, the Foundation would like to feature the Director of Fundraising and Development, Aline Holmen. Aline thoroughly enjoys working with volunteers, service clubs, businesses and all donors who support the Foundation. She believe this team work facilitates the excellent success the Foundation has had on enhancing equipment and programs for the community.  She firmly believes that through teamwork and collaboration, the Foundation has achieved remarkable success in enhancing equipment and programs for the community.

“It is a great feeling when recipients of care appreciate the services and treatment they receive locally without having to travel.  I am very appreciative of the Board of Directors that have guided me thus far, and have a passion for the community’s health and wellness.” - Aline Holmen

Aline's dedication and expertise in fundraising have been instrumental in securing essential resources that have made a significant impact on the lives of individuals in our community. We are incredibly grateful for her commitment and unwavering support.

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Taber and District Health Foundation Announces Stewart Genes Scholarship Recipients

The Taber and District Health Foundation is delighted to introduce the two exceptional individuals chosen as this year's recipients of the Stewart Genes Scholarship. We proudly congratulate Lauren Pack (pictured right) and Mackenzie Speer (pictured left).

Both Lauren and Mackenzie have chosen to embark on a career in the field of Nursing. Lauren, who has recently begun her second year in the NESA program at the University of Lethbridge, expresses her anticipation for the fulfilling journey that lies ahead. She envisions herself as a Registered Nurse who embodies the art and science of nursing, combining empathy and knowledge to make a positive impact on the lives of those she encounters.

Similarly, Mackenzie aspires to be a source of support for patients and families during their most challenging moments. Recognizing the breadth of knowledge that nurses possess in promoting health and wellness, she aims to utilize this understanding to foster comfort and aid in the recovery process, enabling individuals to lead their best lives.

We extend our deepest appreciation to all applicants of the Stewart Genes Scholarship. The Taber and District Health Foundation eagerly looks forward to continuing this program in the upcoming year, with the aim of further supporting and empowering aspiring healthcare professionals.

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Feature - Meet the Board Richard Visser

Richard Visser has been a dedicated member of the Taber & District Health Foundation's board since 2019. With extensive experience serving on various boards throughout the years, Richard epitomizes the essence of giving back to the community he was born and raised in.

Recognizing the importance of improving healthcare services, Richard passionately embraces the Foundation's mandate to enhance healthcare not only at the Taber Health Centre but also at the care facilities in Taber and the surrounding areas. His unwavering dedication to this cause stems from a deep-rooted belief in the well-being of his community, and he actively works towards ensuring that every individual receives the highest standard of care.

Richard, as a diligent steward of the Taber & District Health Foundation, is firmly committed to ensuring that projects funded by community donations are spent in a prudent and sustainable manner. By leveraging both corporate and individual contributions, the board is able to effectively execute their mission. Richard extends his heartfelt gratitude to all the donors for their generous support, as their contributions allow the foundation to make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of the community.

Enhancing Patient Care: The Phlebotomy Cart at Taber Health Centre

The Taber Health Centre now has a new Lab Phlebotomy Cart, thanks to the generous donations made to the Taber & District Health Foundation. This cart will allow the lab to have a second cart with all the necessary supplies on board for when they go to patients in various areas of the Taber Health Centre facility for phlebotomy collections.  It also has ample space needed to carry the required equipment.

The Cart consolidates multiple functionalities to streamline efficiency and ensure patient comfort. With integrated storage compartments, medical professionals can now conveniently store and organize essential supplies, from phlebotomy tubes to needles and disinfectants, all in one mobile unit.

The introduction of the second Phlebotomy Cart signifies a step forward in healthcare efficiency, enhancing the experience of both patients and medical professionals alike.

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New Equipment for the Recreation Department

The Taber Health Centre Recreation Therapy Department has made an exciting addition to their Long-Term Care facility with the recent purchase of a puzzle table. This table will serve as a valuable tool to enhance cognitive abilities, promote social interaction, and bring joy and comfort to those in Long-Term Care. It is even equipped with adjustable and tilting features to enhance the user's experience. Tables such as these have been proven to offer numerous benefits including: 

• Dedicated puzzling space: Puzzle tables and puzzle boards offer a designated space for puzzling, allowing you to work comfortably and avoid clutter in your home.

• Organization: Puzzle tables and puzzle boards help keep your puzzle pieces organized and in one place, reducing the chance of lost parts and making it easier to return to your puzzle later.

• Mobility: Many puzzle tables and puzzle boards are designed to be portable, with collapsible or folding legs and wheels, making it easy to move your puzzle around your home or take it with you on the go.

• Versatility: Puzzle tables and puzzle boards come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, with adjustable heights and angles to accommodate different preferences and needs.

• Protection: Puzzle tables and puzzle boards come with friction fabric and non-slip surfaces, ensuring that puzzle pieces stay in place and minimizing the risk of damage or loss.

Thank you for your donations, your invaluable donations to the Foundation have been able to provide a welcoming and therapeutic environment for patients in the Recreation Therapy Department. 

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Feature - Meet Board Member Bryce Bennett

I have served on the Board since June 2003. I was asked by Dave McKee, who was the fundraising coordinator at the time, if I would be interested in serving on the Board.  At the time, I was not familiar with The Taber & District Health Foundation.  I did have some firsthand knowledge of the importance of great health services in a community however, as I worked as the Finance Director of the Bow Island Health Centre in the early 1990’s.  As I live in Taber, I was interested in the enhancement of health services in Taber and was happy to join the board.  Prior to that I had served on a few other boards in the community.  As an accountant, I felt I could offer additional insight and knowledge to the great group of other board members. 

“I find it very rewarding to see the generosity of the donors in our communities and to be able to see projects funded through the foundation which make health care in Taber and area better.”

One of the more notable projects was funding colonoscopy equipment so people could access those services locally.  Over my twenty years on the board, I have worked with many different board members and three fund raising coordinators and I admire how much they all care about health care in our community.  Aside from the work we do, I have truly enjoyed working with these people. 

Feature - Meet Board Member Kerry Van Ham

I was invited to serve on the Foundation’s Board in June 2007, and it has been my honour ever since. My husband and I live in the Enchant/Vauxhall area, and representation of that geographical area was important to add a voice for the residents that were seeking access to healthcare and senior care centres in and from that location.

I feel privileged to support the wishes of the donors to the Taber & District Health Foundation. 

“This Board respects every penny of every donation, being mindful and appreciative of the generosity of the donors.”  

It is truly rewarding to be part of the Foundation which has been able to significantly impact the lives of many different residents in the various communities in which we all live.  The equipment and technology funded, upgrades completed, and ability to pave the way for additional services at the Taber Health Care Centre and other area care facilities makes direct, timely, and tangible differences in people’s lives.    

It is very rewarding to be part of this Board.  This is an excellent group of people who are dedicated to having the donor’s generosity make a positive lasting impact to improvement of healthcare in our communities and the lives of other.

Feature - Meet Doug Emek

We at Taber & District Health Foundation are thrilled to feature board member, Doug Emek. Doug has an extensive background as the General Manager of Rogers Sugar in Taber, putting the health and safety of his employees as his one priority. His expertise and enthusiasm are invaluable to our organization as we continue our mission of supporting important health initiatives in Taber and surrounding areas.

As Doug, a member of the Taber & District Health Foundation board, explains, “By enhancing health care in our community, the board was helping to ensure that our employees had access to the best care possible when they needed it, either when they were at home, or when they were at work.  And obviously, the work of the board benefits all of the residents of our town, which was also very important to me personally as a citizen of Taber. 

I think my most rewarding experience has been to see how much the equipment we have funded (or upgrades we have completed) has been appreciated by the residents of Taber and the surrounding area.  Our mandate is to enhance health care and I believe we have been very successful in doing just that."

As we look to the future, it is crucial that we continue to support and invest in the healthcare needs of our community. By doing so, we can ensure that everyone, from employees to residents, has access to the best care possible. As Doug notes, the work of the foundation benefits the entire town, making it a vital resource for all.

The Taber & District Health Foundation is more than just a charity organization - it is a community of people who share a common vision of improving health care and making a positive impact on the lives of others.

Blizzard Treat Day - 2023 Wrap Up

The Foundation is excited to announce that the proceeds totalling $4,300 from Dairy Queen Blizzard Treat Day will be directed toward the Taber Health Centre's acquisition of a Clintek Diagnostic Tool for Emergency Room/Acute Care.

This state-of-the-art diagnostic tool will greatly enhance our hospital's emergency department and acute care services, allowing us to provide faster and more accurate diagnoses and treatments for our patients. Investing in this technology is an investment in the health and well-being of our community, and we are grateful for all the support we have received thus far to make this project a reality. We look forward to seeing how this tool will positively impact the lives of those we serve.

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McHappy Day: Supporting Children's Health in our Community

McHappy Day is an annual fundraiser that supports children's health across Canada. Every year on the first Wednesday of May, McDonald's restaurants across the country donate a portion of their proceeds to local children's hospitals, including the Taber & District Health Foundation. Your support for McHappy Day raised $10,820.00 this year!

At the Taber & District Health Foundation, we are proud to be a part of this incredible initiative. The funds raised on McHappy Day go directly towards supporting children and families in our community to access vital health services. This year, funds will be used to purchase a specialized children’s treadmill and therapy equipment for children that utilize the services of Allied Health Services at the Taber Health Centre. These new resources (including books, games, puzzles, feeding supplies, toys, equipment, and play structures) will make play-based therapy sessions more engaging for both the children and their families we connect with, and provide a much broader range of environments for those children to learn, develop, and succeed in.

We would like to thank McDonald's and the community for their ongoing support of this important cause. Every donation, no matter the size, makes a difference in the lives of those we serve. Together, we can continue to support the health and well-being of our community's children.

Mark your calendars for the first Wednesday of May and join us in supporting McHappy Day. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of children in our community!

Feature - Meet Amanda Kimoto

Amanda Kimoto has been a valued member of our Board for the last two years and the Foundation appreciates all her work, input and effort in benefitting the healthcare community. Here are her sentiments regarding the Foundation and healthcare:

I joined the board two years ago shortly after the previous Clinic Manager, Mike Brand retired.  Mike had been on the TDHF board for many years and he was always sharing the great work the Board was doing for the healthcare in our community. 

When I was approached regarding taking his place on the board, I was honoured.  As a registered nurse, I feel that I can bring a unique perspective as a front-line healthcare worker. 

I see patients on a daily basis and can often see firsthand both the gaps in care as well as the amazing benefits that stem from the work of the foundation.  It has been so rewarding to be on the board of the Taber & District Health Foundation. 

Feature - Meet Tamara Miyanaga

Tamara Miyanaga has served on the Foundation’s Board for 8 years. She is a passionate volunteer and contributor to her community. The following are her sentiments about the impact your donations make to the Foundation and the fantastic healthcare workers at the Taber Health Centre:

It has been my privilege to serve on the Board for 8 years. It is a diverse group with the interest of our community’s health and well-being front of mind. 

Taber & District is fortunate to have an excellent hospital and senior facilities.  I am proud to work with the Board and our strong donor base to raise funds, to ensure the community has access to optimum facilities and treatment. Each dollar raised through events or memorial dollars is evaluated to ensure the greatest return. 

I am grateful to work with nonprofits like the Kiwanis Club and their golf tournament, to raise specific project awareness and funds. Over the years the golf tournament has raised $ 435,670.00.

The Board appreciates your families’ feedback on how our facilities and treatments can be improved, by an item or upgrade. 

Thank you for your ongoing support. 

Feature - Meet Joely Megyes

This month, the Foundation will be featuring Joely Megyes. Joely joined the Foundation in 2016 and is a valued member of our Board. Below is a little history about Joely, her expertise and why being on the Board is important to her:

I was approached by Dave McKee, the then Fundraising Coordinator, to join the Board of the Taber & District Health Foundation and I became a Board Trustee on September 1, 2016.

Bringing over 20 years as a business owner and currently working in Human Resources at the Horizon School Division in our community, it has been a very rewarding experience to be involved in the Taber & District Health Foundation. As a Board, we see what a difference we have made, and continue to make, in the lives of so many people in our community through equipment purchases and donations that have been made.

Thank you to everyone in our community for supporting the Taber & District Health Foundation and my fellow board members that I am honoured to work with.

For more on the Foundation Board and volunteer opportunities click here.