Delivering close-to-home care to the Comox Valley, when and where it's needed most

As the mother of four boys active in competitive sports, Cynthia Irvine knows a thing or two about the importance of medical imaging and follow-up care – even more so as a physiotherapist herself and as the spouse of a Search & Rescue helicopter pilot.

Year-round activities take the busy family from the hockey rink and volleyball court to the baseball diamond and skateboard park...and as is the case with sports, occasionally to the Comox Valley Hospital, whether for stitches, setting broken bones or an ultrasound.

Having experienced medical systems elsewhere in Canada, "I am so grateful for the healthcare system we have here, both the medical teams and equipment," Cynthia says.

"We’ve always had such great care here in the Comox Valley – the doctors, nurses, medical imaging staff, volunteers, and other hospital personnel have been incredible. But with more people moving here and new technology available that can help spot medical issues faster, our hospital really needs the right equipment to keep up."

The Comox Valley Hospital serves a population of more than 75,000, providing vital care for residents of all ages – from active families like the Irvines to expectant mothers to seniors. In fact, between the 500 babies born each year at the hospital and the more than 39,000 emergency room visits, the hospital's medical imaging team completes over 100,000 scans and x-rays annually.

It's with that goal in mind that the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation has launched its luxury self-care raffle, featuring a $2,500+ prize package for the Kingfisher Pacific Resort and Spa, generously donated by the team at Keil Wise Financial Management.

“The need for upgraded diagnostic equipment at Comox Valley Hospital is critical in supporting healthcare professionals to continue to provide excellent care for our community,” says Darren Saare, Interim Site Director at the Comox Valley Hospital.

With the ultrasound machines used approximately 15,000 times each year in the Medical Imaging Department for everything from obstetrics to cancer care and regular diagnostics, the high use means these machines have a shorter life cycle than most other medical equipment, Saare adds.

"It’s essential we invest in new technology to improve scan quality, imaging precision and overall patient care. We’re sincerely grateful for our community and the Healthcare Foundation who help make these enhancements possible.”

Luxury Self-Care Raffle launches May 26

Supporting exceptional care, close to home, the Comox Valley Healthcare Foundation's deluxe spa-cation raffle will help fund new diagnostic equipment for the hospital.

And what a prize! The winner will receive a deluxe package from the Kingfisher Pacific Resort & Spa valued at more than $2,500, including a two-night stay in a Beachfront Suite for two adults, plus a $600 credit at Pacific Mist Spa, $550 credits for Ocean7 Restaurant, and brunch credits of $150.

With only 1,000 tickets available, $25 raffle tickets are available online at cvhealthcarefoundation.com until 11:59 p.m. July 21, or until all tickets are sold. The draw will be held at 12:30 p.m. July 22.