A Year of Education, Investment, and Community Support
Submitted by Donna Cole,
THSA Communications
The Tobermory Health Services Auxiliary (THSA) has had a remarkable year, advancing its mission to improve the health and well-being of residents in Tobermory and across the entire Northern Bruce Peninsula. Through an inspiring blend of public education, healthcare equipment investments, and support for vital community organizations, the Auxiliary continues to make a meaningful difference in the daily lives of local families.
We hosted our annual Pancake breakfast at the Chi-Cheemaun festival where we raised funds to help with our initiatives. We will be hosting a number of fundraising activities in 2026, stay tuned!
Strengthening Local Healthcare Through Local Investments
The Auxiliary’s fundraising efforts continue to translate into tangible improvements in patient care. This year, significant donations were made to enhance the services of the Peninsula Family Health Team, including:
• Diagnostic Computer for Cardiac Stress Tests – The Peninsula Family Health Team computer failed leading to a risk of not be able to continue this local testing. THSA provided a new computer ensuring that cardiac stress testing is helping patients receive essential care close to home.
• Electronic Patient Bed – The new electronic bed enhances patient comfort and safety while supporting healthcare staff in providing effective, ergonomic care during examinations and treatments.
• Launching Mobile Dental Hygiene Services in Tobermory – In partnership with the Peninsula Family Health Team, the Auxiliary helped bring Shine 1-1 Mobile Dental Hygiene to Tobermory for the very first time. This innovative service provides accessible preventive oral care for residents who may face transportation or mobility barriers, making dental hygiene more convenient and equitable in the Northern Bruce Peninsula. Feedback from the community has been exceptionally positive, marking this as a major milestone in expanding local health services.
Supporting Community Partners Throughout Northern Bruce
In addition to healthcare-focused donations, the Auxiliary extended support to a range of community programs that contribute to local safety, health, and overall well-being.
• First Annual Student Scholarship for Healthcare Studies – The Scholarship will be granted annually to students who have been accepted to a secondary institution for the purpose of pursuing a career in the field of health sciences as defined under the Regulated Health Professions Act.
• IT Digital Life Enrichment Package at Golden Dawn – Including a projector, a 100 inch screen and Virtual Reality Glasses that will enable Zoom and Facetime calls to families, watching movies for the visually impaired, virtual exercise, range of motion classes and therapy for residents with behavioral challenges.
• Firefighters “Boots on the Bruce” Program – The Auxiliary proudly supported this firefighter/THSA initiative. Chief Burt outlined that the firefighter boots all needed to be replaced but the Harvik boots are very cold in the winter and very hot in the summer as they are not breathable. Given that they are a rubber boot, they are also quite uncomfortable to wear for a lengthy period (such as a long burning barn fire). All 19 pairs needed to be replaced this year. Chief Burt worked with Lin Gitterman (THSA President) to get funding approved by the THSA members to assist replacement of the rubber Harvik Viking boots to an upgraded Lion Thorogood Leather Firefighting boot.
• The THSA also provided much needed funding to Funding other local initiatives such as Tobermory Community Outreach Volunteer Driver Program and The Meeting Place.
Empowering the Community by Providing Health & Wellness Education
This year, the Auxiliary launched a successful Health and Wellness Lecture Series designed to promote health awareness and empower residents with practical, accessible information.
• Hearing Loss and Cognitive Function — Presented by Jill Curtis – Audiology expert Jill Curtis opened the series with a compelling discussion on the link between hearing loss and cognitive health. Attendees learned how early detection and proper treatment can support brain function and long-term independence.
• Local People Helping Local People: A Community Conversation – This interactive session celebrated the strength of local connections and emphasized how neighbors can support one another’s health, well-being, and resilience. Participants shared perspectives, resources, and hopes for an even more connected community.
• Dr. Harpur Fireside Chat – In a relaxed, conversational setting, Dr. Harpur offered insights about the history and current realities of local healthcare, answered community questions, and encouraged open dialogue.
• Memory and Healthy Aging — Presented by Dr. Nicole Anderson – Cognitive aging specialist Dr. Nicole Anderson delivered a highly engaging session on maintaining memory and cognitive vitality throughout the aging process. Her evidence-based guidance reassured participants that healthy aging is both achievable and empowering.
• Yoga for Health and Wellbeing — Led by Karin Kristoferson – To round out the series, Karin Kristoferson guided attendees through gentle yoga practices that promote stress reduction, mobility, and overall wellness. Participants left with practical techniques they could easily incorporate into daily life.
The success of the lecture series underscores the strong community interest in accessible, high-quality health information —and reflects the Auxiliary’s commitment to meeting that need. Stay tuned for our series and 2026!
A Lasting Impact on Community Health
From educational initiatives to essential healthcare equipment and meaningful partnerships, the Health Services Auxiliary continues to bring compassion, leadership, and forward-thinking vision to our community. Our efforts ensure that residents have access to better information, better tools, and better support—right here at home.
The Auxiliary looks forward to building on this momentum in the year ahead, expanding its programs, strengthening partnerships, and continuing to champion a healthier future for all.
