Matthews Memorial Hospital tree lighting happens Saturday

In a matter of days Matthews Memorial Hospital Association (MMHA) will be hosting its Annual Christmas Tree Lighting and Carol Sing fundraiser.

Proceeds from the fundraiser go to physician recruitment and retention.

For the past few weeks, the annual event has been posted on social media and this week residents from the catchment area received its annual letter outlining the association's wish list.

The tree lighting takes place Saturday, Dec. 10, at 4 p.m. in front of the BridgeLink Medical Clinic in Richards Landing.

A donation to your community hospital association is an investment in quality health care for you and your family.

Sign-up sheets are located at local businesses. Each $5 buys a bulb, recognizing your greeting to family, friends or neighbours, or in memory of a loved one, or your donation to MMHA.

Generous donations from individuals and municipalities along with fundraising events throughout the year enable the association to have continued high-quality medical care.

North Shore Health Network Matthews Memorial Hospital site operates a 24/7 emergency department.

The Doctor’s Office offers blood services to all living in the catchment area.

BridgeLink Medical Clinic offers the services of a pharmacy, physiotherapist, foot care, massage therapy and reflexology.

BridgeLink Medical Centre was built in 1998 and needs upgrades which include a generator as a backup for power outages. The outdoor steps and railing require replacement and the waiting room renovation still in progress.

The association is responsible for needed clinic equipment and the upkeep and maintenance of the building.

“With the need for doctors making the news and across social media we are very blessed,” said MMHA board chair, Lavera Crack. “MMHA feels very fortunate that we have been able to recruit a doctor to replace Dr. Lupien who has retired.”

The association has partnered with Blind River, Thessalon and Manitoulin Island for recruitment. Its share of the costs is $7,000 yearly and the incentive costs for new recruits.

Tree-lighting greetings will be posted on bulletin boards and made available upon request.

Bulbs can be purchased through e-transfer to [email protected], mailed to MMHA Box 171 Richards Landing, or dropped off in the mail slot at St. Joseph Township Municipal Office. Please include your name and greeting.

This year there will also be a nativity display at the Harmony St. Marks Harmony United church next door from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. which is open to the public for no charge. See the display then come enjoy the tree lighting and carol singing.