We’re thrilled to announce that The Ottawa Hospital Auxiliary has once again made a significant contribution to patient care at our hospital with a recent $1-million donation. This gift will be used to purchase 14 Philips MX750 cardiac monitors for our hospital’s Emergency Department observation units at the Civic and General Campuses.

These monitors, which include portable capabilities, are used to track heart function and record the patient’s heart rate and rhythm. According to Dr. Guy Hébert, Head of the Department of Emergency Medicine, these devices will significantly improve the department’s ability to perform cardiac monitoring.

“Gifts like this allow us to provide the very best care to patients.”

— Dr. Guy Hébert

“The Ottawa Hospital Auxiliary fills an essential role at our hospital, and we are grateful for their support. This new equipment will allow us to properly monitor and track patients’ cardiac activity during our time observing them and caring for them in the Emergency department,” says Dr. Hébert. “Gifts like this allow us to provide the very best care to patients.”

This donation comes less than a year after their $2.5-million donation in 2022. In total, they’ve donated more than $14 million in a little over a decade, which has supported a wide range of patient needs, from emergency clothing and necessities to lifesaving equipment — even an MRI machine.

“We know the funds we provide are making a tangible difference to our hospital community.”

— Catherine Higgens

The Auxiliary has been meeting patients’ needs in one way or another for almost 125 years. Each of the hospital’s three campuses used to have their own separate auxiliary, but in 2021 they amalgamated into one unified and efficient operation and emerged from the change more determined than ever. They generate income through a variety of initiatives, including on-campus vendors and retail spaces like the Civic’s gift shop and auxiliary shop as well as the General’s Boutique.

The Auxiliary is passionate about being an “on-the-ground organization,” according to the President of their Board of Directors, Catherine Higgens and is proud to make a difference. “When we see critical equipment being purchased, patients’ immediate needs being met, or see our volunteers making a difference in someone’s day, it motivates us,” she says. “We know the funds we provide are making a tangible difference to our hospital community.”

To learn more about TOH Auxiliary’s important work at our hospital, visit www.tohauxiliary.ca