Community Rises to the Challenge – $2 Million Match Achieved!

In just over two months, an extraordinary chapter of community spirit and philanthropy has been written in Northwestern Ontario.

Launched on February 12, 2025, the Beyond The Scan Campaign set out to raise $8.5 million to fund a fully operational Diagnostic Imaging Centre of Excellence at the Lake of the Woods District Hospital (LWDH). As part of the launch, the Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation was proud to announce an incredible opportunity: every donation made between February 12 and April 30, 2025 would be matched dollar-for-dollar by the FDC Foundation, a private foundation based in Mississauga, ON, up to a maximum of $2 million.

Today, the LWDH Foundation is thrilled to announce that the matching challenge has been fully achieved — a powerful testament to the overwhelming generosity and commitment of the community.

“In just a few short months, our community rallied behind this cause in an extraordinary way,” said Mira Trebilcock, Executive Director of the LWDH Foundation. “Thanks to their passion and generosity, we not only achieved the $2 million match — we surpassed it. This success reflects the incredible heart of our community and their commitment to advancing care close to home.”

Ashley Hendy, Board Chair of the LWDH Foundation added, “The Beyond the Scan Campaign shows what’s possible when a community comes together with vision and determination. We are so grateful to every donor who believed in this project and made it a reality. Your generosity will leave an impact for generations to come. We look forward to announcing the grand total of dollars raised in support of the Beyond the Scan campaign on May 22, 2025.”

The Beyond the Scan Campaign is making the following funding priorities a reality:

  • Kenora’s first-ever MRI, providing essential 3D imaging for diagnosing cancer, brain disorders, and soft tissue injuries;
  • A new CT scanner, replacing aging equipment with faster, safer, and more advanced imaging technology;
  • An upgraded Mammography Unit, enhancing breast imaging capabilities with 3D tomography, contrast-enhanced imaging, and improved patient comfort;
  • And the Excellence Fund to support priority medical equipment needs and healthcare advancements throughout the entire Hospital.

“This campaign’s success means the best equipment, top quality images, and ultimately, improved care for our patients,” said Sean Hailstone, Director of Diagnostic Imaging at LWDH. “It not only enhances how we deliver care but also improves patient access to critical diagnostic services. Our team is incredibly excited to bring this next level of diagnostic excellence to our patients and community. We are incredibly grateful for the overwhelming support from our community — it’s truly a game-changer for how we care for those we serve.”

Cheryl O’Flaherty, President and CEO of LWDH, emphasized the broader impact across the hospital. “This overwhelming community support strengthens not only our Diagnostic Imaging Department but the entire hospital. It’s transformational — empowering our staff with the tools they need and enhancing the care we can deliver across all departments.”

The Lake of the Woods District Hospital Foundation extends its deepest thanks to every donor, supporter, and partner who helped make this incredible achievement possible. Together, we are transforming healthcare for today — and for the future.

To learn more, visit: BeyondTheScan.ca