The Chatham-Kent Health Alliance and its Foundation (CKHAF) recently celebrated the official ribbon cutting of the hospital’s new fluoroscopy suite at the CKHA Chatham site.
This milestone marks the culmination of a months-long fundraising campaign led by CKHAF, which raised an $712,615 toward the purchase of the new fluoroscopy machine, a vital piece of diagnostic imaging equipment valued at approximately $1 million.
The balance of funds was provided through the Foundation’s Highest Priority Needs Fund, which enables rapid response to CKHA’s most urgent needs thanks to ongoing community support.
“The relationship between our hospital and the Foundation is essential to ensure we can continue to deliver the care our community depends on,” said Adam Topp, president and CEO of CKHA in a media release. “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, tissues, and systems within the body. It plays a critical role in diagnosing and guiding treatment for a wide range of conditions, hospital officials said.
“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 fluoroscopy system at CKHA replaces an aging unit that had been in service for more than 22 years. This modern equipment, the first dual machine in Canada combining both fluoroscopy and X-ray capabilities, offers sharper image quality, reduced radiation exposure, and improved workflow for staff, officials said. It will enhance diagnostic accuracy, patient safety, and comfort, supporting several hospital 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,” Speer said. “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 successful campaign was fuelled by 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.”
