The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance Foundation (CKHAF), in partnership with Chatham-Kent Health Alliance (CKHA), officially opened the hospital’s new Fluoroscopy Suite at the CKHA Chatham Site on Wednesday, marking a major milestone in local healthcare advancement.
The ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated the culmination of a months-long fundraising campaign led by the Foundation, which raised an impressive $712,615 toward the purchase of the new fluoroscopy machine — a vital diagnostic imaging system valued at approximately $1 million. The remaining funds were provided through the Foundation’s Highest Priority Needs Fund, which allows for rapid support of urgent hospital needs thanks to ongoing community donations.
“The relationship between our hospital and the Foundation is essential to ensuring we can continue to deliver the care our community depends on,” said Adam Topp, President and CEO of CKHA. “It’s wonderful to see the kind of support and collaboration that exists here in Chatham-Kent. It’s what makes moments like this possible.”
Fluoroscopy is a specialized imaging technology that uses real-time, moving X-rays to observe internal organs and systems. It plays a vital role in diagnosing and guiding treatment for a wide range of medical conditions.
“Our team has been eagerly anticipating this day, and it’s incredible to finally open the doors to this new Fluoroscopy Suite,” said Dr. Stacey Speer, Chief of Radiology at CKHA. “This state-of-the-art equipment will have a tremendous impact, not only for Diagnostic Imaging, but for departments across our hospital, from stroke and cancer care to orthopedics and gynecology.”
The new system replaces an aging fluoroscopy unit that had been in service for more than 22 years. The updated equipment — the first dual machine in Canada combining both fluoroscopy and X-ray capabilities — offers sharper image quality, lower radiation exposure, and improved efficiency for hospital staff. The technology is expected to enhance diagnostic accuracy, patient safety, and comfort across multiple departments, including stroke, cancer, orthopedic, and vascular care.
“With its modern design, advanced technology, and improved efficiency, this room allows us to provide safer, faster, and more precise care,” added Dr. Speer. “It’s a tremendous benefit for our patients and our community, and we’re so grateful for everyone who made it possible.”
The Foundation’s fundraising success was driven by extraordinary community generosity, including leadership gifts from Bill and Mary Dorssers of Blenheim, Bob and Robin Hockney, and the James A. Beattie Foundation of Wardsville.
“This morning, I felt so proud knowing that today we would unveil a project that began as an idea on paper and is now a reality we can see, touch, and celebrate,” said Christine Mitchell, President and CEO of CKHAF. “That’s one of the greatest joys of what we do at the Foundation — seeing the impact of community generosity come to life. We’re so fortunate to have incredible champions like Bill and Mary Dorssers, Bob and Robin, the James A. Beattie Foundation, and so many others who stepped forward to make this possible.”
At the ribbon cutting, Bill Dorssers spoke alongside his wife Mary, reflecting on their motivation to support the project.
“My wife Mary and I have always believed in giving back to our community through healthcare and education,” said Dorssers. “After my own experiences at CKHA, I’ve come to truly appreciate the importance of having excellent care close to home. We’re proud to support the hospital and ensure it has the modern equipment it needs.”
Hospital and Foundation representatives were joined by staff, donors, and community partners to celebrate the achievement. Following the ribbon cutting, guests were given a demonstration of the new fluoroscopy equipment by hospital staff recently trained in its use.
Together, attendees commemorated the official opening of the new Fluoroscopy Suite — a project the Foundation says stands as a shining example of what community support can accomplish.
