By Don Urquhart, Times Chronicle
Thanks to a legacy gift the Penticton Regional Hospital (PRH) has been able to purchase two Electroencephalogram (EEG) machines enabling the hospital to optimize seizure detection and epilepsy care for the local community in the South Okanagan and Similkameen.
The gift was made possible by Marilyn and Raymond Rousseau who both passed away on March 3 – one year apart from each other, in 2021 and 2022 respectively. In a testament to their enduring philanthropy, they included a legacy gift in their wills for the South Okanagan Similkameen (SOS) Medical Foundation.
“Through the Rousseau’s generous legacy gift, PRH has been able to continue to provide a critically important and irreplaceable EEG service for both inpatients and outpatients,” said Dr. Niall Davidson, BSc MD FRCPC, Division Head of PRH Neurology.
Marilyn was a dedicated pharmacist whose passion for healthcare and community service shaped her life’s work. Raymond, a retired Canadian army soldier and wine merchant, loved to travel the world. Marilyn understood the vital importance of accessible healthcare and devoted herself to supporting organizations dedicated to this cause along with Ray.
“Driven by their belief in the intrinsic value of giving back, Marilyn and Ray supported the SOS Medical Foundation through their lifetime to advance medical research, improve patient care, and bolster community health programs,” the Foundation said.
“Their unwavering commitment to healthcare accessibility and quality echoed through Marilyn’s core belief that “Health is Wealth,” a mantra Marilyn lived by and shared with those around her.”
The EEG is one of the main diagnostic tests for epilepsy and can also play a role in diagnosing other brain disorders. The device measures electrical activity in the brain using small, metal discs attached to the scalp.
“Their gifts will ensure that their commitment to healthcare will continue to make a lasting impact, and uphold the values Marilyn and Ray held dear, the Foundation added.
“Their generosity, compassion, and unwavering dedication to healthcare will continue to inspire generations to come, serving as a guiding light for those who share their passion for improving the health and well-being of all.”
Those interested in learning more about making a legacy gift can contact the SOS Medical Foundation at 250-492-9027 or visit sosmedicalfaundation.ca.
