October has to be the one of the busiest months in and around Scurry County. We’ve already seen a successful White Buffalo Days and tomorrow the annual Cogdell Memorial Hospital Foundation fundraiser will be held at The Coliseum.
Last year, the foundation held its first Casino Night and it’s back again, only bigger and better, which is sure to mean more fun.
The reason the foundation works very hard for almost a year in planning and organizing is because the money raised goes straight to your Cogdell Memorial Hospital for unbudgeted state-of-the-art medical equipment.
You might ask, “Why isn’t that equipment in the budget?”
There are several reasons, which can be applied to most all businesses in town. For instance, existing medical equipment might be adequate, but a new and better device could come on the market, and that equipment can and does save lives.
The foundation bought defibrillation units one year, and the hospital was able to place one on each floor. Hopefully, none of us will need one, but if we do, they’re in place because of the work of the foundation members, the generosity of donors and everyone who buys a ticket to the gala.
One year, the foundation bought a large refrigerator. It doesn’t seem too complicated to go out and buy a laboratory-type refrigerator, but the need arose to buy one that was larger than the budget allowed. The foundation was able to buy one that will serve the hospital lab for many years. That’s good for the lab and you, if you happen to be a patient.
The foundation has purchased an operating bed, and other state-of-the-art equipment that the medical staff included on their wish list.
This year, the physicians at the clinic requested a portable ultrasound unit. That is the foundation’s goal at Saturday’s gala, to raise around $30,000 to buy the unit. These are the units doctors and parents-to-be use to count toes and fingers and in some cases, check on what color to paint the nursery. At least that’s what I think they’re for. Dr. Jim Burleson and Dr. Bid Cooper can provide a few more details.
Up-to-date equipment helps attract new doctors as well. You’ll have a chance to meet one when our newest physician, Dr. Rebecca Burson, is welcomed to Snyder a week from Saturday in the hospital’s main lobby from 10-11 a.m.
And you might want to wear something maroon and white. Judging by her resume, I think she’s an Aggie. Welcome to Snyder, Dr. Burson. I know for a fact, there’s a lot of Aggies around to make you feel at home, and a bunch of non-Aggies who will also.
And don’t forget — the Health Fair Pink Run gets underway on Oct. 15, also at the hospital with registration beginning at 8 a.m.
The Casino Night fun begins at 6 p.m. with a great meal, followed by Las Vegas-style games and a chance to bid on some very, very nice silent auction items.
Wade Warren is the assistant publisher of the Snyder Daily News. Comments about his column can be emailed to editor1@snyderdailynews.com.
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