The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF) has successfully raised more than $584,000 to support the purchase of a new fluoroscopy machine for Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA), the organization announced this week.
The total—$584,210—was collected over several months through donations from individuals and organizations across the community, according to CKHAF. Fluoroscopy is a crucial diagnostic imaging tool used in various hospital departments to provide real-time, moving X-ray images for procedures ranging from cancer diagnosis to stroke care and orthopedic surgeries.
“A vital piece of equipment is on its way to CKHA—and that means better care, close to home,” said Christine Mitchell, CKHAF’s president and CEO. “We’re so profoundly thankful to everyone who stepped up to support this campaign.”
A major boost came in March when Blenheim residents Bill and Mary Dorssers offered a matching gift of up to $100,000, tripling all donations made that month. The offer led to what the Foundation called “unprecedented giving” from the community.
Initial support for the campaign began on Dec. 3, 2024, with the Foundation’s Giving Tuesday initiative. That effort was enhanced by a $20,000 matching gift from the James A. Beattie Foundation of Wardsville. Proceeds from the Foundation’s Igniting Healthcare Holiday 50/50 draw, which concluded Jan. 10, 2025, were also directed toward the equipment purchase.
CKHAF says the remaining funds needed for the approximately $1-million machine will be drawn from its Highest Priority Needs fund, which supports urgent hospital requirements. That fund is maintained through ongoing donations and annual fundraising events, including the Foundation’s Charity Golf Tournament, Parade of Chefs gala and Igniting Healthcare 50/50 lotteries.
“As a Foundation, our ability to fund this fluoroscopy machine reflects the collective strength and compassion of the Chatham-Kent community,” said Bob Hockney, board chair of CKHAF. “No matter how you chose to support, please know that you were a part of something big.”
Fluoroscopy supports departments such as diagnostics, surgery, emergency medicine, and oncology. It enables physicians to monitor internal movement in real time, providing vital guidance during complex medical interventions.
