Sydney, NS – At a reception in Sydney on Tuesday, May 18th, the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation announced that they have reached their $5.5 million goal for the Cape Breton Cares campaign in support of enhanced cancer and neonatal care. During this reception the largest personal donation to the campaign, a gift of $250,000 from Lou and Kathryn Maroun of Bermuda, was also announced.

“While there have been tough times and many obstacles, the spirit of Cape Breton has endured and ultimately succeeded. This region has produced many talented people who have gone on to shine in all areas; business, medicine, academia, law, and the arts. There is no reason to doubt for a moment that when we aim for greatness we can achieve greatness. Great hospitals, great academic institutions, businesses, social systems and Native institutions, to name but a few,” shares Lou Maroun.

Maroun adds, “Kathryn and I are happy to be a part of one of those successes with our support of the Hospital Foundation. We are aware that when tragedy strikes, people need the comfort of being at home. This component of the hospital is a welcome step in allowing people to be at home and near family when they need it most. We congratulate all those involved on their efforts to make this happen.”

Last month, the Foundation announced that it has reached its $3.6 million fundraising goal. Because many individuals and businesses were continuing to confirm their support for this campaign, the Foundation decided to increase their campaign goal to $5.5 million. These additional funds raised will help purchase a second linear accelerator to perform radiation therapy and relocate chemotherapy staff into our Cancer Centre. We will also purchase two photo therapy units and add a much-needed family room to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

“The generosity we have witnessed throughout this campaign proves that our amazing donors and community are committed to ensuring quality care for Cape Bretoners and beyond. I am so grateful,” says Irving Schwartz, Campaign Chair. “It is because of this kindness and support that we have succeeded in reaching our $5.5 million campaign goal. Thank you to everyone who has made a gift—you have truly made a difference.”

“The overwhelming success of this campaign shows that Cape Bretoners care deeply about others and are among the most generous people anywhere” says John Malcom, CEO of the Cape Breton District Health Authority. “Expanding, enhancing and adding services would not be possible without this generosity. Each and every time we ask for support, the response goes beyond expectations. On behalf of all of our staff, physicians and volunteers, thank you, thank you, and thank you.”

Vince MacLean, campaign member, also announced gifts from:

• Dr. Ross McCurdy ($25,000)
• Schwartz Furniture ($50,000)
• New Dawn Enterprises Home Care Division ($10,000)
• The Canadian Cancer Society ($100,000)
• The Cape Breton Regional Municipality ($500,000)
• Inverness County with gifts totaling ($50,000)
• The Sobey Foundation ($50,000)

Since 1991, the Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation, in partnership with the community, has raised more than $15 million to purchase medical equipment that has dramatically reduced wait times and provided an increased menu of services – closer to home.

For more information, please contact:
Danielle Johnston
Annual Development and Communications
Cape Breton Regional Hospital Foundation
(902) 563-8585

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