Blanche River Health Foundation Secures Grant for Pediatric X-Ray Equipment
New Pigg-O-Stat Will Enhance Care for Young Patients
Blanche River Health Foundation (BRHF) is proud to announce the receipt of a $6,500 grant from the Royal Canadian Legion’s Ontario Provincial Command Ladies' Auxiliary Charitable Foundation. This funding went towards replacing the Diagnostic Imaging department’s Pigg-O-Stat at Blanche River Health’s Kirkland Lake site, a vital device used to safely and effectively perform x-rays on infants and young children.
The Pigg-O-Stat is a pediatric immobilization device that ensures young patients remain still during x-rays, allowing technologists to capture clear images on the first attempt. By reducing the need for retakes, this equipment minimizes radiation exposure for children and enhances safety for staff. The current Pigg-O-Stat has been in use since the 1970s and is no longer repairable due to the unavailability of replacement parts. The new equipment will maintain the department’s ability to provide efficient and high-quality care to over 120 young patients annually.
“This grant comes at a critical time for our Diagnostic Imaging department,” said Pam Gregoire, Blanche River Health (BRH) Diagnostic Imaging Manager. “The Pigg-O-Stat is indispensable for ensuring safe and accurate imaging for some of our most vulnerable patients. We’re deeply grateful to the Ladies' Auxiliary for helping us acquire this essential tool.”
Left: BRH Diagnostic Technologists Megan Stafford with the Pigg-O-Stat from the 1970s.
Right: Using a doll, the Diagnostic Imaging team demonstrates how the new equipment works.
Rene Boudreault, BRHF Vice Chair, echoed this sentiment: “The generosity of the Legion makes a tangible difference in the lives of our youngest patients and their families. Their support ensures we can continue to provide the best care possible.”
This grant highlights the importance of community partnerships in advancing healthcare for the Kirkland Lake, Englehart and surrounding areas. The new Pigg-O-Stat is now operational and in use, thanks to staff’s existing training, ensuring continuity of care for local families.
About the Ontario Provincial Command Ladies' Auxiliary of the Royal Canadian Legion
The Ontario Provincial Command Ladies' Auxiliary of the Royal Canadian Legion is a dedicated volunteer organization that supports veterans and their families, promotes remembrance, and raises funds for community initiatives. During the year ended May 31, 2024, the Auxiliary donated over $556,109 back to the community, including $162,324.63 directly supporting veterans. Additionally, $1,540,269.29 was donated to Legion branches to help them continue their vital work. Through these efforts, the Auxiliary strengthens communities across Ontario while honoring and caring for those who served. For more information, visit on.legion.ca.
About Blanche River Health Foundation
The Blanche River Health Foundation raises funds for equipment and capital projects at the Englehart and Kirkland Lake sites. With limited government funding for these needs, the hospital relies on community donations to modernize facilities and equipment. As a registered charity governed by a volunteer board of directors, the Foundation depends on people’s generosity to support essential improvements, enhance patient care and support the hospital’s mission to make healthcare work for you.
To continue supporting BRH, please consider donating to the BRH Foundation via:
- Cheque to Blanche River Health Foundation
145 Government Road East, Kirkland Lake, Ontario P2N 3P4 - Your estate planner through planned giving in your will
- Buying lottery tickets at splitthepot.ca
- Or online at brhfoundation.ca
Visit brhfoundation.ca to learn more, contact the foundation or to donate.
Pictured:
Blanche River Health team members and Blanche River Health Foundation representatives pose with the brand new Pediatric X-Ray Equipment, vital device used to safely and effectively perform x-rays on infants and young children.
Left to right: BRH Diagnostic Technologists Candace Hebert, Natalie Brissette, Megan Stafford, BRHF Vice Chair Rene Boudreault, BRH Diagnostic Imaging Manager Pam Gregoire, BRHF Chair John Sullivan, BRH Vice President, Corporate Services and Chief Financial Officer Barbara Effenberger, BRHF Director Mitch Moreau and BRHF Executive Coordinator Cassandra James.