Another big donation has come through for the Chinook Regional Hospital Foundation’s Bringing Hearts Home Cardiac Campaign.
The initiative aims to improve cardiac care in southern Alberta, including through plans like building a new cardiac care centre at the Lethbridge hospital.
The campaign has surpassed its initial $30 million goal, with over $33 million being committed, according to officials with the CRH Foundation.
Gerald and Rita Varzari have added to that collection, donating $100,000 to the cause.
“Rita and I have always believed in giving back. We have seen firsthand how important quality healthcare is to our community, and we are pleased to support an initiative that will make a meaningful difference for patients and families across southern Alberta,” said Gerald Varzari, the president and CEO of Varsteel Ltd.
Officials noted that the Varzaris have supported the foundation for over two decades, with previous gifts helping fund a central vital signs monitoring system for the Intensive Care Unit. The foundation said this allows staff to monitor multiple patients from the central nursing station and respond quickly to major changes in their conditions.
“Bringing advanced cardiac care closer to home will make a tremendous difference for patients and families across southern Alberta. Gifts like this help turn that vision into reality, and we are grateful to Gerald and Rita for being part of this important transformation,” said Crystal Elliott, president and CEO of the CRH Foundation.
Fundraising for the campaign will continue through to January 2027. Planning on the new cardiac care unit continues, with construction expected to start in the fall of 2027.
READ MORE: Contributions of all sizes credited for Bringing Hearts Home campaign surpassing $30M goal
