By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
For years, Penticton Regional Hospital has lacked a sacred space – a dedicated area where individuals can grieve, reflect, or find solace in difficult times.
Moved by this gap, Penticton resident Kevin Huey has stepped forward with a $100,000 donation to the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation to establish the hospital’s sacred space.
This is not the first time that Huey has stepped up to support the regional hospital, having made a $65,000 donation in 2020 which marked the successful completion of the Medical Foundation’s $20 million campaign to provide medical equipment for the hospital’s second phase expansion.
“Kevin’s generosity is paving the way for a profound change at Penticton Regional Hospital,” said Ian Lindsay, CEO of SOS Medical Foundation.
“This [latest] initiative will provide a much-needed sanctuary for patients, families, and hospital staff—a place for grieving, relaxing, and prayer. We are incredibly grateful to Kevin for leading this effort and inspiring others to contribute.”
Lindsay noted that sacred spaces play an essential role in healthcare environments, offering a refuge from the stress and emotional toll of medical experiences. He went on to say that Huey’s gift marks the first step in transforming this vision into reality.
“The SOS Medical Foundation is committed to working with Interior Health to design a space that meets the diverse needs of the community,” he added.
“Having a place to turn to during life’s most difficult moments is vital for mental and emotional well-being,” Huey shared.
“This space will allow people to grieve, reflect, or pray in a supportive and peaceful environment. I hope my contribution inspires others to join this effort and help ensure the space becomes a reality for everyone.”
Huey was born in Princeton but moved to the Penticton area in 1990 to run the Kaleden Irrigation District and later to additionally take over managing the Keremeos Irrigation District.
For more information or to contribute to this project, contact the SOS Medical Foundation at 250-492-9027.
