Maple Ridge firefighters and a local chapter of the Knights of Columbus have made donations towards much needed equipment at Ridge Meadows Hospital.
Firefighters donated $25,000 towards the acquisition of a state-of-the-art Servo-u ventilator for the hospital's Respiratory Therapy department.
The Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation called the ventilator a "game-changer in patient care".
"It utilizes the diaphragm's electrical signals to provide the optimal breaths and improve synchronization with patients' natural breathing patterns," described the foundation online, noting that the ventilator is not just new technology, but it represents hope and improved outcomes for patients.
"With this equipment, we can provide optimal care and enhance the recovery journey for those facing complex respiratory challenges," said the foundation.
A local Knights of Columbus chapter also donated money towards a hospital equipment, but for a new multi-test laboratory analyzer.
Knights of Columbus Thomas Haney Council 5566 made a $1,000 donation to the Ridge Meadows Hospital Foundation to put towards a new Osmometer Analyzer.
Laura Butler, the foundation's outgoing executive director, received the donation on Friday, Dec. 27.
The new piece of equipment will be a major upgrade from the current single-test unit, commented the foundation online.
It will be able to conduct 20 tests simultaneously and is, "fully automated for seamless integration with Meditech Advance."
The new analyzer will be able to streamline lab operations, reduce staff workload, and provide faster and more accurate results for patients.
"We are incredibly grateful for the Knight's unwavering commitment to healthcare in our community," added the foundation.