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August 12, 2008
New Hemodialysis machines become reality thanks to philanthropic gifts
The Hemodialysis Unit at Marquette General Hospital has had an ongoing need to replace five of its 21 machines.
Philanthropic gifts to the Marquette General Foundation made possible by the “Friends of Dialysis” awareness initiative are meeting this goal.
Patient Ray Fosterling of Gwinn is shown using the new Fresenius Hemodialysis machine at Marquette General Hospital. The new machine features on-screen computerized programming to enhance the ease of use. At right is Andrea Wills, RN, BSN, Clinical Director of the Hemodialysis Unit. The new machine, along with four additional machines that will soon be ordered, were made possible through generous philanthropic gifts to the “Friends of Dialysis” campaign. (MGH photo)
One new machine was recently installed, and thanks to the generosity of many —most notably an anonymous Marquette couple who has gifted more than $40,000 over the last four months — three additional new machines will soon be ordered.
The new equipment is a blessing for patients and families from Marquette, Alger and Baraga Counties who rely on Marquette’s quality dialysis care.
“The generous donations to the 'Friends of Dialysis' campaign have enhanced the lives of patients and their families for new state-of-the-art dialysis machines,” said Andrea Wills RN, BSN, clinical director of the Hemodialysis Unit. "Some of the current machines still in use in the Marquette unit date back to 1997. It’s often difficult to get spare parts for these machines, which are frequently down for maintenance.”
Wills said the new Fresenius machines are designed for functional efficiency.
“They have on-screen computerized programming to enhance the ease of use. Additional monitoring features provide increased assessment of the patient and their needs,” Wills explained.
In May 2007, the Hemodialysis Unit partnered with the Marquette General Foundation on the “Friends of Dialysis” awareness initiative. Many friends and families have provided philanthropic support to this effort. In addition, more than $7,000 was designated to the Hemodialysis Unit through memorial gifts made in Fiscal Year 2008.
“The dialysis unit is such an important part of Marquette General,” the anonymous donor said. “The nurses and staff who work on that unit are terrific. They’re angels. To us, providing financial support to purchase new machines was very important. We’re happy to help in this way.”
Added Jim LaJoie, manager of Planned Giving/Major Gifts at Marquette General: “It has been an absolute delight to work with a number of people on this fundraising project. We’ve established a special friendship with this special couple who have gone above and beyond in ensuring the unit has the finest available equipment. Our Foundation team is blessed to work with those with charitable intent and who truly want to make a difference in the lives of others. For that, we’re tremendously grateful.”
Friends of Dialysis gift forms are available in the Foundation office, and on the Marquette General Foundation website at www.mgh.org/foundation/index.html. For more information on charitable giving opportunities at Marquette General, call (906) 225-6914 or toll-free at (866) 906-6914.
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