Friends of Kristin Crowe rally to give comfort to radiology patients at Belleville General Hospital.

Fundraising campaign exceeds goals to purchase new blanket warmer.

Radiology patients at BGH will have a more comfortable experience thanks to the generosity and kindness of friends and fans of local businesswoman and philanthropist, Kristin Crowe.

Crowe is no stranger to BGH, having battled breast cancer since 2009. So going for an MRI earlier this year wasn’t a new experience for her. But when she arrived at her appointment, something was different. She was feeling nervous and anxious.

Before going in for the MRI, Kristin requested a warm blanket. There was an older gentleman next to Kristin also there for a Radiology appointment. He overheard Kristin and echoed the same request. Unfortunately, there wasn’t any available.

Upon hearing this story, friends Cassandra Bonn and Jo-Anne Wheeler were spurred to action.

“When we learned Kristin’s cancer had come back, many of us asked ‘how can we help?’ shared Cassandra and Jo-Anne. “Raising funds to purchase a medical grade blanket warmer for BGH’s Radiology department was something tangible and positive we could do to make a difference.”

Working in partnership with Belleville General Hospital Foundation, the friends launched a fundraising campaign for a medical-grade blanket warmer.

The initial goal was $15,000 to purchase the piece of equipment, which can be used to warm linens, but also IV fluids and blood. That goal was met within hours, and a stretch goal was introduced to support priority equipment needs of the Dr. Douglas A. MacIntosh Cancer Clinic.

A total of $27,350 has been raised, from over 50 individuals from Belleville and beyond.

“A blanket warmer may not be the first piece of equipment people think in terms of the hospital’s equipment needs,” said Steve Cook, Executive Director, BGHF. “But for patients waiting for a procedure who are alone, cold, or scared it can make a huge difference to their comfort and experience here at the hospital. We’re so appreciative of Kristin’s openness in sharing her story, and for Cassandra and Jo-Anne’s leadership.”

“The success of this initiative is a true testament to how beloved Kristin is,” said Heather Smith, BGHF Director. “It’s also a powerful demonstration of the power of community, and how we can all play a role in helping to keep exceptional health care, close to home.”

Main photo: L-R, Quinte Health Radiology reps; Cassandra Bonn; Jo-Anne Wheeler; Kristin Crowe; Heather Smith, BGHF Board; Steve Cook, BGHF Executive Director.

Photo below: L-R: Jo-Anne Wheeler; Kristin Crowe; Cassandra Bonn