Many Fairview Manor residents rely on their specially equipped van to go shopping, visit the library or go out for coffee or ice cream.
“I feel wonderful getting out,” says Fairview Manor resident Pearl Dodd. “I always look forward to going in the van to the pharmacy. I don’t want to have to beg someone to get things for me. The van gives me independence.”
However, the van currently used by the Manor is 18 years old and is becoming increasingly costly to maintain.
As well, while the van can accommodate two wheelchairs, it has limited space for walkers used by residents.
“That’s why we are raising funds this fall to purchase a new van,” said Almonte General Hospital/Fairview Manor Foundation Executive Director Gerry Huddleston.
“A new van will be able to hold more wheelchairs and will also have a wheelchair lift installed on the side of the vehicle instead of the rear, which will save space and allow the van to carry eight passengers, instead of six.”
The Fairview Manor van takes residents out two or three times a week.
Destinations include stores, the library, pharmacy, local sugar bush, ice cream parlour and coffee shops.
The van is also used for seasonal outings, such as a drive to see the autumn leaves or Christmas lights.
Mrs. Dodd, who has enjoyed many trips in the Fairview Manor van, values it because it means she doesn’t have to bother her grandchildren to get things for her. Because of the van “I can do it myself,” she says.
The Foundation is appealing to the community to help raise $70,000 for a new van for Fairview manor residents.
“Please consider a donation this holiday season to give our seniors in the Manor the gift of mobility,” said Mr. Huddleston.
The Foundation is also raising funds for much-needed medical equipment, including vital signs monitors, bedside monitors, IV pumps, medication carts, hospital beds and a shower chair for the Rosamond Unit.
To donate to the Fairview Manor van fundraising campaign, or to help purchase medical equipment for the Almonte General Hospital, please call the Foundation office at 613-256-2514, ext. 2297 or send an email to Foundation Executive Director Gerry Huddleston at ghuddleston@agh-fvm.com.
