During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Haisla Nation stepped forward to provide a $300,000 donation to Northern Health to ensure staff and physicians have the tools and equipment available to support them in the work they do.
“When the COVID pandemic began, we could sense the worry and fear of our community members in facing our new struggles,” said Crystal Smith, Chief Councilor, Haisla Nation. “We felt the responsibility to be a part of the solutions and do what we could to ensure our local health services were ready for what the pandemic may bring, which is why we were happy to provide this donation.”
The donation enabled Northern Health to move forward on urgent equipment needs in Kitimat and Terrace, as well as provided the full investment needed for a new ultrasound machine at Kitimat General Hospital.
“This generous gift provides our physicians with additional tools to assist with the treatment of people with COVID-19,” said Colleen Nyce, Northern Health Board chair and resident of the region. “This wonderful gesture will leave a lasting impact long after the pandemic is behind us.”
The donation enabled Northern Health to purchase the following items:
- Ultrasound machine: Kitimat General Hospital (KGH) - 1
- Butterfly Handheld Ultrasound: Mills Memorial Hospital (MMH) - 1
- CO2 Monitors: KGH and MMH – 1 per site
- Defibrillators: KGH and MMH – 1 per site
- Laryngoscope, ventilator, and vital signs monitor: KGH – 1 (of each)
- Monitor: MMH (1)
“We can’t thank the Haisla Nation enough for this gift,” said Cathy Ulrich, President and CEO of Northern Health. “The pandemic has been challenging for front line care providers, and this commitment recognizes them for the role they play in keeping our communities healthy.”
When the pandemic restrictions in health care facilities are relaxed in the future, Northern Health will be inviting leaders from the Haisla Nation to see the equipment and the benefits that it will have for residents of the nation and the people of the Northwest.