By Times Chronicle Staff

The SOS Medical Foundation’s $10 Million Oncology Campaign for a new oncology facility at the Penticton Regional Hospital was given a major boost recently after an anonymous donor gave a legacy gift of nearly $100,000.

The  $96,575.99 donation was made to the Penticton Regional Hospital Auxiliary (PRHA) by an anonymous community donor who “believed deeply in their cause and wanted to leave a lasting impact on healthcare for local residents,” the auxiliary said. The PRHA then chose to direct the donation to the oncology campaign. 

The auxiliary said it is “deeply grateful for this extraordinary gift,” but added it is saddened by the fact they cannot personally thank the donor for their remarkable generosity. 

“This act of kindness will have a lasting impact on healthcare in our community, and while the donor’s identity remains anonymous, their legacy will be felt by countless patients and families for years to come.”

The PRHA said that given that cancer affects 1 in 2 people, it was a clear choice to direct this donation toward the Oncology Clinic at PRH, which is set to open in July 2025. 

The funds will be used to enhance the clinic’s capabilities by providing more nurses, additional treatment bays, and expanded mental health support. It will also include dedicated space for social workers and caregivers, ensuring a comprehensive support system for patients and their families.

Ian Lindsay, CEO of the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation, expressed deep gratitude, saying, “We are profoundly grateful for the over 30 volunteers who comprise the PRH Auxiliary and have dedicated their valuable time to supporting the improvement of quality healthcare in the South Okanagan Similkameen.