By Times Chronicle Staff

The SOS Medical Foundation is making an urgent appeal to the South Okanagan Similkameen community as it pushes hard in the last mile towards raising the final $1 million needed to complete the Oncology Unit upgrade at Penticton Regional Hospital.

Time is ticking by as the Oncology Unit is scheduled to open in the summer of 2025 after a generous community effort has raised more than 90 per cent of the $10 million fundraising goal to date. 

“Thanks to the overwhelming generosity of this community, we’ve made remarkable progress,” said Ian Lindsay, CEO of the SOS Medical Foundation. “But we’re not there yet. This last $1 million is needed to finish this project.

“Every donation will directly impact patients and their families, ensuring they can face the challenges of cancer with the strength of their community behind them.”

The upgraded Oncology Unit – representing a total $22 million capital investment – will double the size of the current facility, providing expanded treatment spaces, private consultation rooms, and a modern, welcoming environment for patients and their families. 

“This project represents a significant step forward for healthcare in our region,” said Lindsay. “Given that 1 in 2 Canadians will develop some form of cancer, the necessity for this Clinic is undeniable. This new unit will provide the care, comfort, and dignity that every patient deserves.” 

The upgraded facility also means improved access to treatment for patients and families without having to travel far from their homes. The new space is also designed to support both physical and emotional healing.

Lindsay noted that donations will help the SOS Medical Foundation fulfil its commitment to create a new Oncology Unit that will provide:

  • Double the nursing staff – Increasing from three to seven funded nurses to better serve patients;
  • Expand treatment bays – Growing from seven to 11, ensuring shorter wait times and improved comfort with space for family members and caregivers;
  • Enhanced facilities – Increasing from one bathroom to eight bathrooms for patients and families;
  • Support for mental health – Space for social workers, phone-based nurse support, and for caregivers to stay with loved ones during their appointments;
  • State-of-the-art equipment – New equipment to deliver advanced treatments;
  • Infection prevention and control – Improved measures to ensure safety for all patients;
  • Private consultation spaces – Providing a dignified setting for patient discussions.

Serving communities from Keremeos to Osoyoos, Oliver, Penticton, Princeton, and Summerland, the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation works to meet critical needs by funding medical equipment, supporting programs, and improving healthcare infrastructure. 

Donations can be made at sosmedicalfoundation.com.