Health donation

Earlier last year, Brian and Judy Berrns lost their son Jared when he passed away suddenly on Thursday, February 10, 2011 from complications resulting from Type 1 Diabetes.

Brian and Judy wanted to do something in memory of their son that would benefit other people. As Jared had diabetes for half his life and eventually passed away from complications with diabetes, they wanted to do something with diabetes if possible. They approached The Health Foundation regarding options that might be available that would make a lasting and positive benefit for other people living with diabetes or kidney issues.

When they learned that The Health Foundation was in the process of trying to upgrade the Hemodialysis Program in the Regional Health Centre they thought it made sense to make a contribution and help that upgrade succeed.

The Springside Lions decided they also wanted to make a contribution and have donated $3000.00 in-memory of Jared. Brian and Judy are both long-time members of the Springside Lions, and Jared was born and raised in the Springside area and lived in the community until his passing.

The $6,000 completed the fundraising for the new dialysis chairs and monitoring equipment needed. The equipment has been ordered and will be in place in February of 2012.

The Health Foundation will recognize the donations In-Memory of Jared Berrns by placing an In-Memory recognition on the plaque at the entrance of the Dialysis Program and on the main donor wall of the hospital.

Upgrading of the dialysis chairs for patients and the purchase of minor equipment like an exercise bike and monitors for the dialysis program in the Regional Health Centre in Yorkton became necessary as the dialysis program was expanded to a second shift two years ago; the program now goes from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Expanding the program meant that the chairs and equipment the patients use see much more usage than they did before.

"We are very grateful for this donation and very pleased that Brian and Judy Berrns chose to work with us when they wanted to do something in memory of their son Jared," said Ross Fisher, Executive Director of The Health Foundation.

"This is very generous of the Berrns family, choosing to honor the memory of Jared in this way means that they will help other people to enjoy a better quality of life for many years," continued Mr. Fisher.