The Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital Auxiliary successfully raised $96,000 for the purchase of vascular ultrasound equipment.
Funds raised came from a number of sources and the hard work of many from committees that the Auxiliary organization operates. In addition to sales from the Carousel Gift Shop located in the hospital, the Auxiliary’s annual events--the Hospital Ball, Antique Show and Festival of Lights—made up the bulk of the donation.
“We have a very involved membership with a strong desire to help provide the best care for our community. We regularly seek input from the hospital’s administration about what their needs are and how the Auxiliary can spend its fundraising dollars to have the greatest impact,” said Ann Williams, RSMH Auxiliary President.
“Vascular ultrasound uses sound waves to evaluate arteries and veins for blockages. This advanced machine allows for high resolution images of lesions in the neck, aorta and limbs,” said Dr. Robert Paschall, DO, neurologist with Riverside Eastern Shore Physicians & Surgeons. “I’m so thankful to the members of the Auxiliary for their generosity which allows us to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for our patients,” he added.
Blockages in veins and arteries can be early warning indicators of stroke, deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, peripheral arterial disease and aneurysm. Ever-advancing technology means that patients reap the benefits of technological improvements and new capabilities and also means that hospitals must routinely upgrade their equipment. The generous support of the Shore community through the efforts of the hospital Auxiliary is critical to Riverside’s ability to replace equipment, provide scholarships and so much more.
The hospital’s Vascular Lab was the first in Virginia and one of the first in the nation to be accredited by ICAVL, the national accrediting body for vascular laboratories.
The Riverside Shore Memorial Hospital Auxiliary began in the 1910's before the hospital even existed. They held bake sales and went door-to-door collecting funds for bricks and windows, storing them in a barn until construction began. Since helping build the first hospital in 1928, they have been essential in the purchase of many pieces of hospital equipment and patient comforts, the creation of a scholarship fund for nursing education, and most recently, they were leaders in raising funds for the new hospital located in Onancock.
“We’re proud to have been, and continue to be, an integral part of the history of the hospital on the Eastern Shore,” said Williams.
To join the efforts of the RSMH Auxiliary, email [email protected].