SUDBURY -- A couple from the Greater Sudbury community of Whitefish is donating $1 million o the local hospital, Health Sciences North, for life-saving equipment.
The donation to the hospital's foundation is being made by Craig Fielding and Katriina Ruotsalo.
The money will go to help buy a new machine that provides critical respiratory care for some of the most acute patients in HSN’s intensive care unit.
"Katriina and I are proud to make an impact on the health care of northerners, and support front-line workers, especially during this pandemic,” said Fielding. “We hope we can play a role in ensuring patients get the care they need close to home during challenging times and hopefully inspire others who are able to consider supporting our outstanding hospital."
In addition to the portable heart-lung support system, three anesthetic machines, a new heart-lung machine for patients recovering from open heart surgery and a new mask fit testing machine will also be purchased with the money. Part of the donation will also be used to help cover additional costs associated with preparing for a surge in COVID-19 patients
"This gift will have an immediate impact on how health care is provided in Northeastern Ontario," said Anthony Keating, President and Chief Development Officer, Foundations and Volunteer Groups at HSN. "It will also have long lasting benefits for our patients and the entire region. We’re all so grateful for this gift to our communities."
"The community is really stepping up to the plate," says Dominic Giroux, President and CEO of HSN. "Craig and Katriina’s generosity is a great example of how philanthropy has a direct and immediate impact on our patients. This donation is also a big morale booster for our staff. I can’t thank Craig and Katriina enough."
