Local Family Raises Over $30,000 for Childhood Cancer Care at OSMH
ORILLIA, ON – “The 3rd Annual Miles Philip Hammond Memorial Fundraiser was a great success, raising $33,014 to support Paediatrics, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and Paediatric Oncology Group of Ontario (POGO) satellite services at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital (OSMH).
The event was started by Kent and Kate Hammond after the loss of their son, Miles, just days after his first birthday. Though the family lives in the Muskoka region, Miles received cancer treatments at OSMH until he passed in February 2021.
“Supporting OSMH, where Miles received such outstanding care, is something we feel strongly about continuing to do,” said Kate Hammond, Miles’ Mother. “We’re so proud of the support our community showed once again this year at the fundraiser- it’s a really special way to help us remember our sweet boy.”
To honour Miles’ legacy, Kent and Kate have raised a total of $104,735 to support childhood cancer patients at OSMH. The funds raised by Miles’ family and friends have purchased a vital signs monitor, halo bassinests, and colourful IV poles for paediatric oncology services.
“[The Hammond’s] generosity has truly transformed the way we deliver care at our hospital and we cannot thank them enough for their support,” said Amanda Gaudet, registered nurse and POGO Pediatric Oncology Satellite Nurse Coordinator at OSMH. “Their donations have improved the quality of nursing care and enhanced the overall patient experience. The Hammond family’s kindness will continue to have a positive impact on the lives of countless individuals who come through our doors for treatment.”
This year’s fundraiser took place on Saturday, March 2nd at Canvas Brewing co. in Huntsville, Ontario. Over 100 guests joined the Hammond family as they celebrated Miles and the impact he has continued to make on local healthcare services.
“It’s very inspiring to see how the Hammond family has honoured their son’s life by supporting new equipment for our young patients,” said Perry Esler, president and CEO of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital Foundation. “We thank the Hammond family and friends for their continued generosity.”
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