The Georgian Bay General Hospital (GBGH) Foundation is thrilled to announce a $45,000 grant from the Sandra Schmirler Foundation to support the purchase of a new fetal health monitor for GBGH’s Obstetrics Department. The grant was officially presented by champion curler and Sandra Schmirler Foundation representative Sherry Middaugh during the Glenn Howard Charity Golf Tournament, where several Canadian curlers were spotted supporting GBGH.
“Presenting this donation is an especially meaningful experience for me,” said Sherry Middaugh. “I had the opportunity to curl against Sandra many times throughout our careers, so seeing funds raised in her memory making a difference at GBGH—the very hospital where both of our daughters were born—made this a truly heartfelt, full-circle moment. I’m grateful to play a small role in continuing Sandra’s remarkable legacy and helping support families in our community.”
The new monitor will help the obstetrics team keep a close watch on the well-being of mothers and babies throughout labour and delivery, providing confidence and reassurance during one of life’s most important moments. The equipment will also give expecting mothers greater freedom to move during labour while remaining safely monitored.
“Moms and babies deserve the safest possible start,” said Maggie Duivenvoorden, Supervisor of Obstetrics at GBGH. “This equipment helps our team respond quickly if concerns arise during labour, while also supporting a more comfortable and positive birth experience. We are incredibly grateful to the Sandra Schmirler Foundation for helping us continue to provide excellent care for our littlest patients.”
For Perry Esler, Interim CEO of the GBGH Foundation, the grant represents much more than equipment funding.
“The Sandra Schmirler Foundation has created an incredible legacy by bringing together Canada’s curling community in support of hospitals and families from coast to coast. Seeing leaders in the sport such as Glenn Howard and Sherry Middaugh helping champion this cause is a reminder of the powerful impact that community can have. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and for the difference it will make for local families welcoming a new baby at GBGH.”
