Heart & Vascular Center Fundraising Campaign Goal Reached. Attracts Donations from Local and Seasonal Residents.
The "Heart of the Community" fundraising campaign to support the development of the Brainerd Lakes Heart and Vascular Center at St. Joseph's Medical Center (SJMC) has reached its goal of raising $4 million. Since the campaign kickoff in August, the initiative has attracted donations of all sizes from around the community and across the state. The most recent donation of just over $28,000 was received from St. Joseph's Foundation. "St. Joseph's Foundation's Board of Directors felt it was important for the community and organization to reach the $4 million fundraising goal now that the center is open and treating patients. Our donation of over $28,000 will help accomplish that," said Deb Thuringer, foundation board chair.
One donor family, Cliff and Nancy Anderson from Edina, MN, came forward with a very generous donation. The Andersons are seasonal residents in the Brainerd area.
"We believe that it is necessary for people to have access to good medical care in every city," said the Andersons in an interview. "We wanted to give back to the community. We've noticed that many large gifts have been made to the area by seasonal residents, and we're grateful for their example." The Andersons have been enjoying their Gull Lake cabin for over twelve years, and Cliff enjoys the Brainerd International Raceway and its sports car activities.
Arnold and JoAnn Johnson are local residents who also contributed generously to the Heart of the Community campaign. In an interview, Mr. Johnson said, "My wife and I have always been very pro-Brainerd Lakes Area. As we grow older and more seniors are living here, the need is even stronger for this type of care here." Mr. Johnson also shared that he is glad to support a program that will benefit many people in the area. He believes that receiving heart care close to home without having to run to St. Cloud or the Cities will help people get the care they need.
Donors Lynn and Paul Hunt from Pine River agree. "I am really glad to see the progress [on the heart center], and to know it will make a major difference in our community and save a lot of lives and a lot of travel," said Lynn Hunt.
All the donors to the Heart of the Community campaign will be recognized in the new Heart Center on the 'River of Life' sculpture designed by local metal artist Jeff Kreitz. At a later date the Heart Center will be named in honor of the anonymous donor family who has contributed more than $1.5 million, and who spearheaded the development of cardiovascular services in this area.
For more information or to make a donation to the Heart Center, please contact Shelli Urness, Foundation Director at (218) 829-2861 ext 7627 or visit www.brainerdlakeshealth.org.