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The 12th Annual AGH Run for Women’s & Newborn Health, presented by Canadian Tire (Carleton Place), raced into the record books on Saturday, June 7, raising an unprecedented $165,000 in support of newborn health and the obstetrics department at Almonte General Hospital (AGH).
Organized by the Almonte General Hospital – Fairview Manor Foundation, the beloved annual fundraiser drew more than 400 participants, volunteers, and supporters of all ages, from babies in strollers to spirited seniors, who ran, walked, and rallied together in support of local healthcare.
“We are blown away by the generosity and spirit shown this year,” said Vaia Dimas, Executive Director of the AGH FVM Foundation. “These funds will go directly toward the purchase of urgently needed equipment, like post-partum beds, Panda Warmers and a HUGS infant security system, that help ensure the best possible care for moms and babies. Thank you to every donor, participant, and volunteer who made this incredible day possible. This event truly showcases what our community can achieve together.”
Participants chose between a 3K or 5K route through the scenic town of Almonte, beginning and ending behind AGH and Fairview Manor. The always-popular Baby Race also returned, offering plenty of smiles and laughs as the youngest “racers” toddled or crawled across the finish line.
“This event continues to be a joyful expression of community pride, compassion, and generosity,” said Brad Harrington, President and CEO of the Mississippi River Health Alliance. “To see so many people come together for women’s and newborn health, and to raise a record amount, is both heartwarming and inspiring. These funds will make a lasting impact on care provided right here at AGH.”
Photo credit: Submitted.
This year’s event also included a surprise presentation of the Bert McIntyre Award to Julie Munro, long-time AGH Run Committee Chair. The award, presented annually to an outstanding volunteer of the AGH-FVM Foundation, recognized Julie’s extraordinary dedication, having led the Run Committee for the past 10 years and serving nine years on the AGH-FVM Foundation Board. Julie has given tirelessly of her time and energy to the cause of local health care.
“It’s been an incredible honour to be part of this event for more than a decade,” said Munro. “Seeing it grow year after year, and now witnessing the largest total ever raised, fills me with gratitude. I’m so proud of our community, our sponsors, and every single person who showed up to make a difference today.”
In addition to record-setting participation and fundraising, several individuals and teams went above and beyond. The Almonte District High School made the Run their charity this year and brought in over $18,000 – alongside R. Tait McKenzie Public School and Naismith Memorial Public School who held student fundraisers over the past few weeks.
This year’s top individual fundraiser, Darrell Graham, raised over $34,000, while the top fundraising team, the Lotan Family, brought in $13,000 in honour of AGH’s obstetrics team. Other dedicated community partners, including Vamos Outdoors, Westview Projects, Orchard View, Thrive Chiro, Joanne Beaton, Dandelion Foods, Quinn Donohue Ayling Realty, DockMaster, Kate Dawes, and Almonte Civitan were also recognized for their outstanding support.
Since its inception in 2013, AGH’s Annual Run for Women’s & Newborn Health has raised more than $400,000 to help the AGH FVM Foundation purchase essential medical equipment not funded by the government. Past purchases have included labour and delivery beds, warming stations, IV pumps, and specialized baby scales. Prizes were awarded to top fundraisers, with all participants who raised over $100 entered into a draw featuring generously donated items from Cavanagh Construction.
To learn more or to make a donation in support of the AGH FVM Foundation, visit: www.almontehospitalfoundation.com.
