Record-breaking fundraising goal set for 20th Annual Light a Moose to purchase ultrasound for hospital

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — The fundraising goal for this year’s 20th Annual Chances Casino Light a Moose radiothon is a record-breaking $175,000.

The radiothon kicks off November 15th for three days, raising money for the Fort St. John Hospital Foundation.

The goal for this year is to raise enough money to purchase a Philips Epiq Elite Ultrasound Machine needed for the medical imaging department at the Fort St. John Hospital.

According to the hospital foundation, the department is experiencing a growing need for another ultrasound machine.

The department has a significant backlog of ultrasound exams, mostly coming from those categorized as less urgent. Ideally, these would be completed within 60 days, but 90 per cent of these exams take about nine months, and some patients wait as long as 14 months.

As of August 2022, 2,748 patients were waiting for their scans, and in 2020, 1,616 patients were waiting.

The hospital says the new machine will enable the department to accommodate an additional 1,820 to 2,600 patients annually.

Donations can be made now by calling 250-793-0998, online at Canada Helps’ website or in person with cash, debit or credit at Chances Casino, 11308 Alaska Road North, from November 15th to 17th during the radiothon.

Last year’s radiothon raised $153,763.50 and passed the $1 million milestone. The proceeds went towards a Spectra Stainer and coverslipper, as well as the foundation’s Greatest Needs Fund.

The foundation’s 2023 Be an Angel Campaign also launched on October 3rd and will continue until the beginning of December.