MEDIA RELEASE
For Immediate Release
June 4, 2024
NORTHUMBERLAND COUNTY- In 2017, Shane Jarvis was rushed by ambulance to Northumberland Hills Hospital (NHH) – he didn’t know how ill he was initially, and that the hospital team would end up saving his life.
“The care I received locally was second to none,” said Jarvis, who is well-known in the community as owner and president of Lakeland Multi-Trade, based out of Cobourg.
So, when Jarvis learned about a chance to help with the NHH Foundation’s Exceptional Community, Exceptional Care campaign – the largest fundraising campaign in the hospital and Northumberland County’s history – he didn’t hesitate to sign on.
“I speak from experience about this hospital when NHH saved my life in 2017 after becoming sick and arriving in bad shape by ambulance,” shared Jarvis. “They woke me up in the ICU after a week of being on a ventilator, multiple medications, and around-the-clock care.
“This could have had a much different ending, but I’m lucky we have such a capable hospital with caring health professionals. NHH is a very important part of our community’s day-to-day, and monumental when you’re on the receiving end (of care desperately needed.)”
Eager to pay it forward, Lakeland signing on as a matching donor of an NHH Staff campaign was an easy decision, shared Jarvis.
Through the staff campaign, staff rallied to raise life-saving funds, showing a deep commitment to the community, and ensuring their hospital can meet the needs of a fast-growing and aging population.
Residents may have noticed their “I Care” themed videos online as part of the initiative, where staff shared why “I Care” in support of NHHF’s $25-million fundraising campaign.
The videos showcase more than just staff in their workplace. There is an earnestness around being a part of something special and to #MakeCareBetter a reality. In some instances, staff, too, talk about lives saved, including their own.
Staff raised an impressive $16,962 as of April 30, when the campaign wrapped. Lakeland will match this dollar-for-dollar, doubling the impact of the initiative.
Ultimately, this will help fund redevelopment, new programs, and life-saving equipment and technology at the hospital.
Looking back on his previous health issue and journey to wellness, Jarvis noted he knows he’s not alone. From family to neighbours in need, NHH is relied on daily.
“This hospital has always been here for me, my family, the community, all my friends – everyone who’s ever lived here.”
Born and raised locally, Jarvis shared how he’s watched the hospital evolve, grow to offer more services and state-of-the-art equipment. It’s not something he wants to take for granted, he said.
Jarvis hopes this donor-matching challenge inspired some excitement while underscoring the significance of healthcare staying close to home and increasing awareness around current needs. He also shared hopes of other businesses and community partners stepping forward to help.
It’s important to show staff the community sees and cares for them, added Jarvis.
“This is a pretty personal place for me,” said Jarvis. “They’ve done a lot for me – it’s time to pay it forward.”
With Lakeland also focused on building in the community and a belief in supporting the community, this matching donor initiative just made sense, recognizing the hospital is also striving to ensure it can care for a growing community, said Jarvis.
To learn more about the Exceptional Community, Exceptional Care priorities and ways you can help, visit www.ItsTimeNorthumberland.ca.
