By Martha Aitkin, Bruce Peninsula Press
Recently the Tobermory Health Services Auxiliary (THSA) raised funds for the purchase of a Miranti Bath Bed. This new patient care device ensures a secure and comfortable bathing experience for the residents of Golden Dawn. As well as assuring a safe transfer in and out of the bathtub this product significantly reduces back strain injuries for the Personal Support Workers (PSWs) who provide this care as many as 10 or 11 times per day.
The THSA is a dedicated group of volunteers that has been committed to health care advocacy and support since its inception in March of 1982. There have been some changes throughout this 43 year history, including name changes and becoming an independent Registered Charity, but the focus on supporting the health care needs of Tobermory residents, as well as the supply and equipment needs of medical staff providing this care, has not wavered.
Early THSA history brought fundraising for the building of the Doctor’s residence (opened in 1992) which houses a board room on the main floor. In the years between 1999 and 2002 THSA led fundraising efforts to repair and upgrade the hospital in Lion’s Head. Thanks again to the efforts of the THSA a new heart rate monitor was added to the hospital medical equipment inventory at a cost of over $50,000.
In a testament to local expertise and generosity, as well as the dedicated leadership of THSA members, the new Tobermory Health Services Medical Clinic celebrated its grand opening on June 16, 2012. THSA also ensures clear communication of the Clinic’s mission and available services with the goal of enhancing patient care experiences. Through various fundraising efforts, aligned with the Clinic’s goals, THSA continues to support the acquisition of important health care resources.
Current THSA fundraising efforts are working to bring a Digital Life Enhancement Package to Golden Dawn. A projector, a 100 inch screen and virtual reality glasses will enable Zoom and Facetime connections with families. This up-to-date technology will enable virtual exercise and range of motion classes as well as virtual psychotherapy for residents with mental health issues such as depression and dementia. The virtual reality glasses will even enable movie watching for residents with visual impairment.
Tobermory’s volunteer firefighters will soon be wearing special safety boots that will keep their feet warm in winter and cool in summer thanks to the efforts of the THSA who will make up the difference between the cost of standard issue rubber boots for firefighters and the cost of the better boots.
THSA Board of Directors includes President Rob Davis, Past President Judy Willson, Vice President Lin Gitterman, Secretary Patty Kelly and Communications Director Donna Cole. If you would like to join the THSA or learn more about the many ways they contribute to excellent patient care please go to https://thsa.ca/
