The Estevan Health Care Auxiliary made a significant contribution to the care of St Joseph's patients when they made their final payment yesterday to complete upgrades to the Operating Room. 

"We made a presentation to the hospital of $15,000," shared Darla Wilhelm, Treasurer, "to pay off our Operating Room project which we started two years ago for $100,000. We made a $20,000 payment in May and now this one to finish off our project."

The upgrades include an operating table, an infant warmer for babies born by c-section, and an equipment cart for dental surgeries that require anesthetic.

Marlene Shurygalo, President of the St. Joseph’s Hospital’s Healthcare Auxiliary shares that the funds come form a variety of fundraising efforts.

"Through our bake sales, spring and fall. We have a gift shop here and we also have an Honest John Book Sale outside the gift shop that goes on all the time."

The Healthcare Auxiliary is also a member agency of the Estevan United Way. 

Darla added that they often will receive memorial donations in remembrance of those who have passed.

"We do accept donations also. Every little bit helps."

The turn out to Christmas bake sale was well attended. 

2018 will mark the 80th anniversary of the Health Auxiliary in Estevan.