Due to the outbreak, general visitors are not permitted, and visitation is limited to one essential caregiver only. Essential caregivers are to wear a surgical mask and other appropriate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) as identified by the care team.

Testing of patients and staff continues as part of outbreak management protocols, and enhanced cleaning practices are underway to limit spread.

The post General Visiting Suspended On East And South Wings At Huntsville Hospital appeared first on Muskoka411.

The swim will start at 8 a.m. at the docks by Algonquin Outfitters, and Jarvis expects it to wrap up around 12:30. Supporters are invited to the docks to see her off and welcome her back. She’ll swim a 9-kilometre route from downtown Huntsville up the Muskoka River, to Lake Vernon, around Gallagher’s Island, and back. Jarvis is asking locals to help her help the Huntsville Hospital Foundation (HHF) because it’s a cause close to heart and home for most people in the area.

“I’m swimming for life-saving equipment. It’s something that can be used in the hospitals daily and helps all the residents of the community out,” Jarvis said. “You’re never too young or old to fulfill your dream, and that’s what my swims have been.”

Jarvis said it was great to fundraise for Huntsville Hospital in 2023, so she approached the foundation again this year to let them know she wanted to do more for them. She set the same fundraising goal of $5,000, though she hopes to raise more than the $6,836 she raised for the MRI project last year.

Roughly eight or nine other swimmers will join her in the water for the final stretch of her swim. They’ll start swimming at various points during the last three and a half kilometres of the journey and have kayak support available along the way, so Jarvis will have people backing her in the water and on the docks.

“It’s neat to see that,” she said. “It gives you that extra push and that extra drive.”

Jarvis has been swimming since she was only a year and a half old. She got into competitive and long-distance swimming before transitioning her swims into fundraisers. It keeps her in shape, but more importantly, it allows her to raise money for essential local causes. 

She plans to continue swimming for charity as long as she’s able. This is Jarvis’ second year swimming for the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, but overall, she’s spent just shy of three decades swimming for different healthcare causes. 

She started her fundraising swims to support cancer camps for children. After supporting Camp Trillium and Camp Oochgeas, she also swam for Hospice Huntsville for over 10 years. Jarvis said it’s an honour and a privilege to be working with the hospital foundation now.

“All the equipment that I’m raising money for will be needed in years to come,” she said. “It’s just an overwhelming feeling of support that I’ve gotten over the years, especially the past two years for the foundation.”

It’s heartwarming for her to see the encouragement and support grow over the years while knowing the donations are helping the community at large. Supporters can contribute in person at the swim or online on Jarvis’s fundraising page, which will remain open for donations for a few weeks after the event.

She’s hoping for sunny skies and calm waters on the day of the event, but she’s planning to swim rain or shine. She’s only had to be pulled out of the water due to bad weather once before, so she feels good about her chances.

She’s been training with friends about three times a week in preparation for the fundraiser. Even though she’s done it dozens of times before, she still has some nerves leading up to the big day. She tries to focus on training and getting a good night’s sleep in the days leading up to the swim. 

“Once I get there and dive in at 8, I get my rhythm and I tell myself, ‘I can do this,’” she said, adding that she reminds herself who she’s doing it for. “As it gets closer, I get a little nervous, which is hard to believe after all the years, but maybe that makes the swims more special.”

Trish Kruusmagi, development officer for community engagement and events at HHF, said the team at the foundation had a lot of fun celebrating Jarvis’ first swim. They’re excited to see her back at it, especially given the importance of the cause.

Every year, the foundation raises over a million dollars to cover the purchase of new equipment for the hospital. Everything from stretchers to heart monitors is paid for with private money.

“Events like Joy’s not only raise money for the hospital, but they raise awareness in the community because a lot of people don’t even realize that we have to fundraise for the equipment inside,” Kruusmagi said. “They think it’s paid with tax dollars, and it’s not true.”

All hospitals in the province have to raise money for equipment, so creating awareness around that need is crucial. She said their job at the foundation is to inspire the community to donate, and between locals and cottagers, it’s an incredibly generous community. 

Kruusmagi said it’s great to see Jarvis supporting the hospital because it helps existing residents while also attracting new people to the area. It’s a community hub with critical importance, so she and the foundation team are urging people to show their support for her efforts. Their team will have a tent set up at the docks with their summer ambassadors there to cheer her on.

“We’re encouraging people who live along the route to clap and cheer as she swims by and support her,” Kruusmagi said. “There might even be a little celebration of it at the pub afterwards for anyone who wants to join.”

Jarvis is quite the lady, Kruusmagi said, and passionate people like her have a ripple effect in the community. Recently, an eight-year-old girl sold bracelets to her friends, and when others decided to match her donation, she was able to contribute over $3,000. 

After that, a local boy gave his birthday money while another boy had a lemonade stand at a family garage to bring in donations. Residents know what a difference a good hospital makes, and every bit counts, she said.

For people who can’t donate directly, volunteering with the hospital auxiliary or foundation is another way to help. Locals can also reach out to Kruusmagi if they want to start their own fundraising event.

“Whether it’s a bake sale or a swim or a substantial million-dollar donation, they all help us raise the money needed for the equipment that will, in the long term, attract physicians to Huntsville,” she said. “When you’re working and you’re practicing, you want to work with the best equipment there is, it just makes your job easier, so that is another goal of ours is attracting new physicians to the area.”

To make a donation to Joy Jarvis’ fundraiser, visit her page on JustGiving.com.

The post Local Swimmer Raises Money For Equipment At Huntsville Hospital On July 28 appeared first on Muskoka411.

The reopening earlier this fall follows the replacement of an end-of-life nuclear medicine camera with a new state-of-the-art $2.6 million SPECT-CT Nuclear Medicine suite supported by an incredible $2 million contribution by the Huntsville Hospital Foundation’s Focus on Imaging campaign through the generosity of community donors and a leadership donation from The Sprott Foundation.

Up to 2,000 nuclear medicine exams are completed in Huntsville annually, allowing patients across the Muskoka region and in East Parry Sound to receive diagnostic services closer to home. The new technology allows for faster imaging and improved image quality, which increases diagnostic accuracy and gives healthcare professionals more precise information that advances patient care. As well, the addition of CT technology to the nuclear medicine scanner allows for fusion imaging by combining two types of imaging, often avoiding the need for an additional appointment.

“The Diagnostic Imaging team is thrilled to have resumed Nuclear Medicine services in a new, state-of-the-art suite. Our new machine includes CT capabilities that can provide backup/redundancy during any downtime of our main CT scanner in order to minimize interruptions to patient care”, says Dr. Jason Blaichman, Director & Chief of Diagnostic Imaging. “Since the reopening, our patient population can once again receive their essential nuclear medicine exams without having to leave Muskoka.”

MAHC President & CEO Cheryl Harrison is equally excited the service has resumed and appreciates hospital partners in Orillia, Barrie and North Bay for supporting referral volumes during the renovation and replacement period.

“We are also grateful for the incredible generosity of the donors and the Foundation’s hard work toward this important capital equipment purchase and associated expansion of the hospital behind the Sprott Foundation Diagnostic Imaging department to accommodate the new machine and necessary renovations,” says Harrison.

Katherine Craine, CEO of the Huntsville Hospital Foundation, adds the Foundation is proud to have supported the reopening of the SPECT-CT Nuclear Medicine Suite to patients.

“Seeing this project come to fruition is so heartwarming,” says Craine. “Congratulations to all of our donors for making this happen for our Muskoka community!”

The post Nuclear Medicine Suite Reopened With State-Of-The-Art Equipment appeared first on Muskoka411.

Visiting to the South Wing inpatient unit at the Huntsville District Memorial Hospital (HDMH) Site has been suspended after a unit-specific COVID-19 outbreak was declared in collaboration with the Simcoe Muskoka District Health Unit.

The post HDMH South Wing Visiting Suspended Due To COVID-19 Outbreak appeared first on Muskoka411.

Recognizing the impact that this increase has on hospital staff and infrastructure, the Huntsville Municipal Accommodation Tax Association (HMATA), whose mandate is to promote and develop tourism in Huntsville, is pleased to support the Huntsville Hospital Foundation (HHF) with a $50,000 donation.

“When you think how and who does tourism impact quite significantly, it’s the health-care system,” said Kelly Haywood, HMATA’s executive director. “It’s important and prudent for us to be supporting the hospital in its growth.”

Members of the HMATA board of directors presented a cheque to HHF staff at a luncheon at 3 Guys and a Stove on December 5.

“This gift is truly impactful. We have huge goals for the hospital. Know that your support is not only supporting our local community, but our local community who are bringing their families here, who are bringing their visitors here,” said Meaghan Byrnes, HHF’s director of philanthropy. “What’s the one thing that can hinder a vacation? An accident or a hospital stay. If we can provide that level of compassion, support and most importantly, access to care right here in the community where they are, imagine how they can go back and tell people and how they will come back.”

Visits to Huntsville Hospital’s emergency department triple in the summer, noted Byrnes. “Thank you for recognizing what staff are doing to care for everyone in the community — visitors, seasonal and local. They are doing everything in their power to support everyone who comes through the door.”

The foundation’s Business Cares program is one way that the local community can support the hospital, now and into the future.

“The program started in 2015 with the goal of enticing 40 local businesses to pledge $5,000 a year for five years — a $25,000 commitment. We have surpassed that goal and have had 60 businesses pledge through the program,” said Trish Kruusmagi, HHF’s development officer, events and community engagement. “We would like to recognize HMATA as a Business Cares partner.”

HMATA, Huntsville’s official destination marketing and management organization (DMMO), is beginning to implement its recently completed strategic plan and looks forward to working toward its goal of making Huntsville one of Ontario’s most-cherished year-round destinations.

Since 2020, HMATA has dispersed more than $1 million for tourism marketing and in support of local attractions and organizations including the hugely successful Eclipse Walk with Light at Muskoka Heritage Place, Huntsville Festival of the Arts programming, the Downtown Huntsville BIA, the Huntsville Lake of Bays Chamber of Commerce, many community events and local youth organizations.

All of the funds distributed by HMATA are collected via the Huntsville Municipal Accommodation Tax, paid by visitors to Huntsville at local accommodations.

The post Huntsville Municipal Accommodation Tax Assoc. Makes $50K Donation To Hospital Foundation appeared first on Muskoka411.

The next draw is a two month draw, where tickets purchased in November and December will all be eligible for the December 29^th Grand Prize draw.  Tickets purchased now will qualify for the Early Bird Draws on November 15^th, November 30^th and December 13^th PLUS the Grand Prize Jackpot on December 29th! Tickets are 800 tickets for $75, 300 tickets for $40, 100 tickets for $25, 10 tickets for $10 and can be purchased online at www.Muskoka5050.ca.

This season when you are shopping for that special someone or if you are looking to treat yourself, purchase a gift that keeps on giving. Every ticket sold supports the Huntsville Hospital Foundation’s Focus On Imaging campaign, helping to upgrade diagnostic technology and equipment – this includes Muskoka’s first MRI!

Huntsville Hospital Auxiliary 50/50 launched in 2022 and has awarded more than $200,000 in prizes. “We’re excited to launch our new website and offer a user friendly experience when purchasing tickets,”  says Susan Love, Huntsville Hospital Auxiliary President. “Our community has been very supportive of our 50/50 – some participants play each month or multiple times a month. We’re thankful for the support we’ve received for this initiative and grateful for the impact it has on diagnostic care for our community. We look forward to celebrating and announcing our next 50/50 winner,” adds Love.

Participants must be 18 or older. Buyer must be in Ontario at the time of purchase. For more information or to purchase your 50/50 tickets, please visit www.Muskoka5050.ca.

Lottery Licence #RAF1299058

The post Huntsville Hospital Auxiliary Launches New 50/50 Website With More Chances To Win appeared first on Muskoka411.

“My family has been cottagers here for over 20 years and we all see Huntsville Hospital as our hospital – we’ve needed it often enough to know that as fact,” says Mrs. Coleman. “This donation is our thank-you. The $50,000 match is a challenge to everyone in the area. Having MRI and advanced diagnostic imaging close by is critical to everyone’s health.”

Initially, the MRI service will provide approximately 3,000 exams per year for the community with potential to expand over time. Having local access speeds diagnosis and treatment accuracy while reducing wait times, travel and financial implications for local residents who will no longer have to go elsewhere for an MRI.

“The Huntsville Hospital Foundation has been raising funds to update our local diagnostic imaging capacity for over two years,” says Foundation CEO, Katherine Craine. “To date, we’ve raised $7.5 million of our $10 million goal. Paula Coleman’s gift and challenge to inspire even more gifts is amazing support when and where we need it most. I know our team and the entire Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare team are beyond grateful.”

Mrs. Coleman’s $50,000 challenge will match dollar for dollar every gift by any local or seasonal resident, local business or organization. The total fundraising potential connected to her effort could reach $350,000 supporting the MRI.

“I’m asking everyone to step up for access to local MRI services,” concludes Mrs. Coleman. “Our healthcare providers give us their best every day – the least we can do for them is match their passion and commitment.”

The $10 million Focus on Imaging campaign started in August of 2021 to help Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare replace or update aging X-ray equipment, ultrasound machines and CT Scanner, echocardiography and mammography technology, and Muskoka’s first MRI.

To learn more and to make a donation, please call 705-789-4756 or visit: huntsvillehospitalfoundation.ca/mri

The post $250,000 Donation From Lake Of Bays Resident For MRI Machine At Huntsville Hospital appeared first on Muskoka411.

This investment was made possible by the generosity of community donors through the
Foundation’s Focus On Imaging campaign, which has purchased a new digital X-ray machine that is now operational in The Sprott Foundation Diagnostic Imaging Department.
“Technology is rapidly changing, and the Foundation’s Focus On Imaging campaign has equipped our healthcare teams with the latest tools to do the best job they can for patients care,” says MAHC President & CEO Cheryl Harrison. “Equipment costs are entirely funded through donations from the community to our Foundations and upgrading aging equipment helps us to better serve our community and positions the department to meet evolving Radiology practices and a broad range of imaging needs into the future.”

Annually, MAHC completes more than 36,000 X-rays, half of which are completed in Huntsville. The advanced technology affords clearer, more detailed images to support health care diagnosis and patient outcomes with less radiation exposure, making it safer for all. “If a child has a fall at the park or a loved one has an accident at the cottage, digital imaging is essential for any hospital,” says Katherine Craine, CEO of Huntsville Hospital Foundation. “We’re grateful for the generosity of our community and for incredible donor support of our Focus On Imaging campaign. Together, we’re going to achieve our goal of $10 million.”

The Focus On Imaging campaign will help the hospital replace or update aging X-ray equipment, ultrasound machines, CT Scanner, echocardiogram units and mammography technology in addition to funding the purchase of Muskoka’s first MRI (Medical Resonance Imaging). Focus On Imaging was launched in August of 2021 and has raised 75% of its $10 million goal.

To learn more about Focus On Imaging or to make a donation, please visit
www.huntsvillehospitalfoundation.ca.

Media Release Provided by Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare and the Huntsville Hospital Foundation.

The post New X-ray Suite Improves Diagnostic Care for All Ages appeared first on Muskoka411.

The OPP has concluded its investigation and determined there was no threat to public safety.

“We appreciate the timely response of Huntsville OPP and diligence to investigate what they have reported to be a miscommunication,” says President and CEO Cheryl Harrison. “I want to assure patients and their families and our team members that there was no threat inside the building at any time and no impact on patient or staff safety.”

The post Miscommunication Results In Heavy Police Presence At Huntsville Hospital appeared first on Muskoka411.

A Registered Social Worker with more than 13 years of mental health and addiction experience, Desiree Reisenburg has been involved in nearly 200 patient interactions at South Muskoka Memorial Hospital and Huntsville District Memorial Hospital since commencing the Mental Health Navigator role in November.

“Mental health is an important component of overall health and wellness and we recognize the growing need for mental health supports in our community especially since the COVID-19 pandemic,” says President and CEO Cheryl Harrison.

MAHC Emergency Departments are here for people experiencing mental health crisis and coordinates transfer of patients to facilities that provide inpatient mental health care.

“This role is an opportunity to enhance in-the-moment supportive care with early intervention for those most in need,” says Harrison. “The Mental Health Navigator also develops discharge care plans to connect patients with community-based resources for safely returning home, including referrals to Canadian Mental Health Association Muskoka-Parry Sound.”

Diane Brown-Demarco, Executive Director at Canadian Mental Health Association Muskoka-Parry Sound is excited with the investments of new resources in our community.

“We continue to work in close partnership with MAHC to ensure we build capacity to meet the mental health and addictions needs of individuals we serve,” says Brown-Demarco.

Since introducing the Mental Health Navigator role, first responder partners in our community are lending voices of support to improvements to holistic mental health care.

“In our communities people who are suffering often call on the police to help,” says OPP Constable Samantha Bigley. “Police officers attend and spend a good deal of time talking with those people and that is a conversation that often ends with a trip to the hospital. Knowing that our local hospitals have a Mental Health Navigator on the team gives officers confidence in making the decision, knowing that the person will be cared for and will have their needs met. The navigator makes the transition smooth and officers leave the interaction feeling satisfied that people are being cared for in the best way possible.”

The importance of supporting those with mental health injury/illness cannot be understated, and Muskoka’s paramedics witness the struggles of many in our communities first hand, adds Stuart McKinnon, Deputy Chief of Paramedic Services & Emergency Planning.

“Having a dedicated and knowledgeable mental health resource at MAHC to support patients brought in by paramedics provides them with quick access to the care they need, and has been a valuable addition to the health system in Muskoka,” says McKinnon.

Together with our partners, MAHC recognizes National Mental Health Awareness Week during May 1-7, 2023.

The post Mental Health Navigator Introduced In Muskoka’s Emergency Depts. appeared first on Muskoka411.