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Emergency Department

PMH welcomes additional Filipino health-care workers

Ariane Jadraque, a registered nurse destined for Swan River, arrived with her family at Winnipeg International Airport on Sept. 9  She is pictured with her family members who include husband  Jenneson Jadraque, daughter Elisha and son Jansen.
Ariane Jadraque, a registered nurse destined for Swan River, arrived with her family at Winnipeg International Airport on Sept. 9.  She is pictured with her family members who include husband  Jenneson Jadraque, daughter Elisha and son Jansen.

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) continued to welcome additional Filipino health-care workers to the region. Internationally-educated registered nurses Ariane Jadraque  and Saul Almonicar arrived in Canada earlier this month. Jadaraque accompanied by her family, began working at Swan Valley Health Centre in Swan River on September 16. Almonicar, whose family will join him later, commenced duties at Dauphin Regional Health Centre on Sept. 23.

“We’re very pleased to welcome Ariane and her family, and Saul, and eventually his family, to Manitoba and our health care region!” stated Treena Slate, CEO of Prairie Mountain Health.”

“We sincerely thank members of our recruitment team for their ongoing work to ensure these new members of our care teams are welcomed and oriented to our health system and their communities.”

As part of the overall recruitment initiative, and effective October 1, PMH has recruited 10 registered nurses, one licensed practical nurses and 14 health care aides. They have been located in various communities which include Brandon, Dauphin, Hartney, Minnedosa, Neepawa, Russell, Swan River and Virden.

PMH Recruitment Manager Larissa Kominko shares a minute to welcome Saul Almonicar, Internationally-educated registered nurse, to Dauphin. Saul began working at Dauphin Regional Health Centre Sept. 23.
PMH Recruitment Manager Larissa Kominko welcomes Saul Almonicar, Internationally-educated registered nurse, to Dauphin. Saul began working at Dauphin Regional Health Centre Sept. 23.

PMH anticipates the arrival of two more internationally-educated registered nurses in early October. One will be located at Minnedosa Health Centre and the other will work at the Virden Health Centre.

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National Day for Truth and Reconciliation | September 30

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation resources
Click on image to enlarge

Prairie Mountain Health is located on the original lands of Anishinaabeg, Cree, Oji-Cree, and Dakota peoples and the homeland of the Métis Nation.

Prairie Mountain Health has committed to begin the work of reconciliation with the Indigenous people and communities in our region.

Many generations of First Nations, Métis and Inuit children were forcibly placed in more than 130 residential schools in a calculated effort to eradicate Indigenous languages and cultures from the 1870s to 1996.

In June 2021, the Government of Canada passed Bill C-5 to name September 30 the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation to recognize the past harms and wrongs inflicted on Indigenous children in residential schools by making it a federal statutory holiday.

September 30, also known as Orange Shirt Day, acknowledges Phyllis Webstad’s story that started the movement.

To commemorate the children who never returned home, survivors of residential schools, and those impacted by this legacy, WEAR ORANGE to show your commitment to reconciliation. 

Take a moment to reflect on what reconciliation means to you and how you can advance reconciliation in the workplace and in your community. 

Reconciliation is inevitable, though it is how we choose to make the relationship with Indigenous people that matters.  

Nellie KopitzRegional Manager of Indigenous Health, Prairie Mountain Health

Events Throughout Our Region

This is a small list of many events happening within our region. We encourage you to participate in events in your community. If you are an event organizer, please email [email protected] to have your event added to this list.

Links

National Day for Truth and Reconciliation – Government of Canada.ca

National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation

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Summer 2024 Donations for PMH

Manitoba Women’s Institute- Made in Manitoba Project

Country Meadows residents receiving blankets
From Left to Right – Jocelyn Scheper (Manager Health Services), Diane Cottingham (Resident), Tamika Baron (Client Care Coordinator), Lynne English (Resident), Heather Cummings (Manitoba Woman’s Institute)

The Manitoba Women’s Institute chose a Made in Manitoba project which provided a dozen lap quilts for distribution to Country Meadows Personal Care Home in Neepawa. Each quilt was unique with the creator’s personal touch. The quilts have been donated to those residents who are in wheelchairs who had the greatest need for comfort. The residents receiving the quilts are overjoyed with their donations. The quilts have brought smiles to the faces of many.

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Stay Safe This Harvest Season

Harvest is just around the corner in our prairie region.  We encourage everyone (farmers and the public) to take precautions and stay safe this harvest season.

On the Road

  • Take precautions when driving past or near slow-moving farm equipment.
  • Ensure all lights including brakes and turn signals are working and properly adjusted before moving farm equipment on public roads.
  • Keep mirrors and windows clean both in and out of the field.
  • Be aware of height, length and weight restrictions on farm vehicles and when permits may be required.

In the field

Combine dumping into grain cart.
  • Inspect equipment regularly and ensure everything is in good working condition.
  • Ensure guards and shields are in place on all equipment.
  • Ensure first aid kits/fire extinguishers are stocked/full and in good working condition.
  • Clear plugged equipment after the power is turned off and keys removed.
  • Never trust hydraulic systems when working under a machine. Always use a safety prop if you must work under a header or other heavy machinery.
  • Check your tow ropes and chains when pulling out stuck equipment – try to use tow ropes in good condition instead of chains.
  • Have operational fire extinguishers mounted on equipment and everyone trained to use them. (recommended to have one in cab and one accessible from ground)
  • Have a shovel accessible on farm equipment for fires.

In the yard

  • Create a safe, separate and supervised play area for children on the farm.
  • Before moving a piece of machinery, do a walk around check to ensure no one is near the equipment and warn anyone in the immediate area that the machinery will be moving.

Do not ignore your health during the harvest season. It is important to try to get adequate sleep which will help you rejuvenate from a hard day and prepare you for the next busy day.  Stay alert and take breaks! Take a break to eat your meals, even a short one.  Get out of the cab and walk around every few hours. 

hand running over wheat heads.

If harvest becomes stressful for producers and their families, free confidential support is available through Manitoba Farm, Rural and Northern Support Services at 1-866-367-3276 (toll-free) or online at www.supportline.ca.

Discover numerous videos on farm safety here.


Resources: www.canolacouncil.org Iowa State University

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Prairie Mountain Health and Shared Health Joint Employee Family Fun BBQ: A Day of Sun, Fun, and Community at Minnedosa Beach

Story courtesy of the Minnedosa Tribune

PMH Staff enjoying wellness day at Minnedosa Beach

On July 14th, from 11 am to 4 pm, Minnedosa Beach was the place to be as hundreds of Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) and Shared Health employees, along with their families, gathered for a delightful day of sun, fun, and community at the Employee Family Fun BBQ. The event which included physicians, nurses, and volunteers, was blessed with partially clear skies, warm weather, and a light breeze – perfect conditions for a day at the beach.

The picturesque Minnedosa Beach, known for its serene waters, boating, waterskiing and beautiful surroundings, provided the ideal backdrop for the event. As families arrived, the beach quickly filled with laughter and excitement. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the awesome Splash Waterpark, where children of all ages could be seen enjoying the various water features and slides. The gigantic floating inflatable, with its diverse waterscape of activities, was a huge hit with kids of all ages, offering endless entertainment and a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

In addition to the waterpark, a wide array of games and activities were organized to keep everyone engaged. The chillaxing and friendly banter among colleagues and their families added to the festive atmosphere, fostering a sense of camaraderie and community.

PMH Employee Wellness Team members

No BBQ is complete without delicious food, and this event was no exception. Attendees were treated to free drinks, chips, hotdogs, and cotton candy ensuring that everyone had the energy to participate in the day’s activities. The aroma of grilled hotdogs wafted through the air, enticing even the most reluctant eaters. The picnic tables, set up under the shade of nearby trees, and beach blankets provided a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy their meals together.

The event’s organizers ensured that there was a well-rounded experience for all ages. For the younger children, there were face painting stations, balloon animals, and a variety of beach toys.

Meanwhile, adults could unwind and socialize, taking in the scenic views of Minnedosa Beach and catching up with colleagues outside of the work environment. The event also featured a playlist of summery tunes that set the perfect mood, adding to the overall relaxed and joyous ambiance.

The Prairie Mountain Health Employee Family Fun BBQ was more than just a day at the beach; it was a celebration of the hard work and dedication of PMH and Shared Health employees. It provided a much-needed opportunity for healthcare workers and their families to unwind and enjoy some quality time together. The event highlighted the importance of work-life balance and the value of taking time to appreciate and connect with loved ones.

Sunglasses on rock at Minnedosa Beach

Community support played a crucial role in the success of the event.

Local businesses and organizations generously contributed, helping to make the day memorable for all attendees. Their support underscored the close-knit nature of the Minnedosa community and its commitment to recognizing and celebrating the efforts of healthcare professionals.

As the day drew to a close, families began to pack up their belongings and shared stories of the day’s adventures. The smiles and laughter that filled the air were a testament to the event’s success. It was clear that the Family Fun BBQ event had achieved its goal of providing a day of relaxation, enjoyment, and community building to our heroic health care providers.

In the end, the event served as a reminder of the strength and resilience of the healthcare community. It brought together individuals from a wide variety of roles within PMH and Shared Health, reinforcing the bonds that unite them in their shared mission to provide quality healthcare. The Employee Family Fun BBQ at Minnedosa Beach was a shining example of the positive impact that a supportive and connected community can have on the well-being of its members.

**Thanks to the members of the PMH Employee Wellness Team for organizing and supporting this fun event.**

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World Suicide Prevention Day | September 10, 2024

People talking about suicide prevention.

World Suicide Prevention Day is September 10. Across the Prairie Mountain Health region, numerous activities are planned in September to recognize the importance of suicide prevention.

The theme for World Suicide Prevention Day is Changing the Narrative on Suicide– with a Call to Action- #starttheconversation. The theme aims to raise awareness about the importance of changing the narrative surrounding suicide and transforming how we perceive this complex issue. Changing the narrative requires systemic change and support. – 1. as outlined by the International Association for Suicide Prevention.

So, let’s start the conversation today. No matter how small, every chat builds a more supportive and understanding society. Together, we can make a difference and prioritize suicide prevention, ensuring everyone gets the help they need. Starting the conversation is a crucial opportunity to shift the narrative around suicide and mental health. Changing the narrative involves addressing several key aspects:

  1. Reducing Stigma: One of the main goals is to break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and suicide. By encouraging open discussions and normalizing conversations about mental health, we can help individuals feel more comfortable seeking help and support.
  2. Promoting Awareness: Increased awareness about the signs of mental health crises and the resources available for help can make a significant difference. Educational opportunities such as safeTALK and Mental Health First Aid can inform people about how to recognize when someone might be at risk and how to approach and support them effectively.
  3. Empowering Conversations: Shifting the narrative means fostering compassionate and non-judgmental conversations. Focusing on listening and understanding is important rather than offering quick solutions or judgments. This can help create a safe space for those struggling to open up.
  4. Highlighting Stories of Hope: Sharing stories of recovery and hope can inspire others and show that change is possible. Hearing about others who have overcome similar struggles can encourage and demonstrate that seeking help can lead to positive outcomes.
  5. Encouraging Help-Seeking Behavior: Emphasizing that seeking help is a sign of strength rather than weakness can encourage people to reach out when they need support. It’s essential to make mental health resources and professional help more accessible and less intimidating. Share SPIN power cards with others! Request on the SPIN website.
  6. Supporting Survivors: Providing support to those who have lost loved ones to suicide is also a vital part of changing the narrative. Check out the SPIN website for more information about the Suicide Bereavement Support Group in Brandon.

By addressing these areas, World Suicide Prevention Day can help reshape how society views and responds to suicide and mental health challenges, ultimately leading to better support systems and reduced rates of suicide.

Talking about suicide is difficult, but there are things you can do. You can listen to people with a non-judgmental ear and remind the person you care for them. You can check in with people regularly to see how they are doing and listen supportively. You do not need to have all the answers. You can let others know they are not alone. You can be aware of resources in your area and introduce people to those resources.

Events in Brandon:

In Brandon, The Suicide Prevention Implementation Network (SPIN) Is offering a chance for everyone to join us in promoting awareness about suicide.  On Friday, September 6, in honour of World Suicide Prevention Day, we hope to create a safe space for the community to come together to find resources, remember loved ones, or support others who have been touched by suicide. We will meet in the Cultural Room of the A.R. McDiarmid Civic Complex, 638 Princess Avenue, from 11:30 am- 1:00 pm SPIN has some light snacks and activities structured around having difficult conversations and Instilling hope and wellness in the community. During this event, SPIN will also present special recognition awards to those nominated for making a difference in our community by actively advocating for suicide prevention and life promotion.

SPIN Is also hosting a FREE 3-hour safeTALK training – Monday, September 9, from 5 pm – 8 pm at the Elspeth Reid Family Resource Centre. This educational opportunity will help you to be ready to reach out to someone thinking about suicide, overcome attitudes that act as barriers to help, talk openly about suicide and identify and connect people to resources in your area. SPACE is limited; register by emailing [email protected]

Clothing fundraiser – New SPIN signature sweaters, shirts and tumblers available. Funds raised will go towards providing Suicide Alertness training for the community. Please email [email protected] for more information or check SPIN social media for details.  Or click on the link: SPIN Brandon | Westman Promotions | powered by OrderMyGear (itemorder.com)

Candlelight Vigil – On Friday, September 6th, Westman Mental Wellness and Suicide Prevention Association is hosting a gathering at the Brandon University Garden on 18th Street in front of the Clark Hall Building at 7:30 pm. They will be giving out candles, and collecting names in memorial (optional to provide). The group will then walk to Stanley Park (8:00 pm) for a reading of names and a moment of silence to be held at the park.  Candles for this event will also be made available at the SPIN event earlier in the day.  

Events happening in some PMH rural and northern communities:

  • Chalk the Walk– happening in Ste. RoseSwan River, Roblin, and Dauphin. Community members or businesses interested in participating can pick chalk up from their local HERO Club or Community Health office in Swan River, Roblin and Dauphin, and the Community Health office in Ste. Rose. Chalk the Walk does not have a set date and will run from September 4 to 11th in these communities.
  • Awareness Walks – happening on September 10 from 12-1 pm in Swan River & Dauphin.

If you are struggling or concerned about someone else’s suicidal thoughts, do not hesitate to reach out for help.

Contact the Manitoba Suicide Prevention and Support Line at 1-877-435-7170, a crisis line available 24 hours per day. A trained crisis worker will listen to you and direct you to the needed resources.

PMH Resources contact Westman Crisis Services at 204-725-4411 or 1-888-379-7699 in the Brandon Area or 1-866-332-3030 for PMH-North- Call 911 or contact a local hospital or health office.

NEW: 988-suicide crisis line available to all Canadians in English and French, 24 hours a day and seven days a week. It will offer trauma-informed and culturally appropriate services by trained crisis responders by phone or text.

Prairie Mountain Health- North Mental Wellness and Crisis Resources

Manitoba Suicide Line1-877-435-7170
Sexual Assault Crisis Line1-888-292-7565
Klinic Crisis Line1-866-367-3276
Manitoba Farm & Rural Stress Line1-888-322-3019
Manitoba Addictions Help Line1-855-662-6605
Kids Help Phone1-800-668-6868 or text CONNECT to 686868
First Nations & Inuit Hope for Wellness Help Line1-855-242-3310
Reason to Livereasontolive.ca

1. International Association for Suicide Prevention. (2024). World suicide prevention day 2024. https://www.iasp.info/wspd/

2. International Association for Suicide Prevention. (2024). Resources: World suicide prevention day banners. https://www.iasp.info/WSPD/resources/

Follow SPIN social media: Twitter: @brandon_spin     Instagram: Spin_Brandon     Facebookspinbrandon Call: 204-578-2599 or email: [email protected]

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New Neepawa Residency Unit begins within Prairie Mountain Health region

Dr. Brian Milligan, Program Director, Residents Dr. Gabrielen Alvero and Dr. Emma Ball and Jenna Kilburn, Program Administrator.
The first Neepawa-based Family Medicine Residency Program. From left are Dr. Brian Milligan, Program Director, Residents Dr. Gabrielen Alvero and Dr. Emma Ball and Jenna Kilburn, Program Administrator. 

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) continues to support efforts to enhance access to physician and primary care services in the region. The region already has strong partnerships with two Residency Programs  (Brandon Satellite Campus and Parkland Family Medicine Residency Unit, based in Dauphin) and in early July, a third program got underway in Neepawa.

The two-year Residency Program, with two Year 1 Residents, is under the guidance of Dr. Brian Milligan of the Beautiful Plains Medical Clinic. Jenna Kilburn is the program administrator at the Neepawa site. The Residency Program is funded by the University of Manitoba, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. Besides their home base in Neepawa, the residents will also do rotations at other regional and provincial sites.

PMH is excited about the possibilities going forward. The community of Neepawa and surrounding area is growing and the new hospital under construction is slated to be completed in the summer of 2026.

“This provides exceptional opportunities for physicians to train in a rural setting and the potential to further increase the number of physicians who remain to practice in our rural communities, like Neepawa,” stated Treena Slate, CEO of PMH.

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Back to School Packing Lunches

It’s back to school season, which means for most families that it’s time to pack lunches. Packing lunches can feel like a challenge trying to balance nutrition, budget, variety, food safety, and figuring out what your kids will actually eat. Here are a few tips for streamlining the task of packing lunches.

Mother and daughter packing lunch box into the kid backpack.

Get your kids involved – Involve your kids in the decision making and preparation. Decision making can start at the grocery store with simple decisions, for example, “would you like bananas or oranges in your lunch this week?”. When kids can be involved in some planning and decision making about meals, there is a better chance they will enjoy what’s packed! Involving kids in packing lunches also teaches important life skills like meal preparation, grocery shopping, as well as helping them discover their own preferences, and build a healthy relationship with food.

Make lunches the night before – Mornings are busy! Make life easier by packing lunches the night before. Pack lunches while cleaning up supper, especially easy if the leftovers can be packed in lunches.

Pack foods your kids like – Packed lunches are not the place to get your kids to try new foods. Save trying new foods for when they are at home, and in a relaxed environment. Pack foods that you know your kids like, even if that means packing the same items every day. This also means including food items that are just for fun. Different foods have different purposes, some foods purpose is enjoyment. Making these foods scarce only makes them more exciting to kids, and makes them want them more, which can cause a power struggle between the parent and child. When these “fun foods” are available in packed lunches regularly, eventually your child will see them as just another packed item, and will reduce their perceived “obsession” with them. In the long run, this will help kids develop a healthier relationship with food, and help them not feel out of control around these foods when exposed to them as a child, teen, and into adulthood.

Everyone has a job – Feeding kids can be a challenge, and meal times can feel like a power struggle if not everyone knows their job. According to Ellyn Satter, parents and kids each have a job to do at mealtime. At home it’s the parent’s job to provide food regularly, and to decide what, when, and where food is provided for their kids. At home it’s the child’s job to decide if they are going to eat what is provided, and how much. At school, the jobs shift a little. At school, it’s the parent’s job to decide (with input from the child) what is packed in the lunch, it’s the child’s job to decide if they are going to eat what is packed, in what order, and how much, and it is the teacher’s job to decide when and where the food is eaten. This may mean that your child doesn’t eat everything in their lunch or on their plate, but it helps your child learn to understand and listen to their own hunger cues, helping them develop a healthy relationship with food.

Pack a variety of foods – Some kids eat a larger variety of foods than others, and that is ok. Kids are still learning about different foods and their preferences. Here is a lunch checklist to include different important nutrients. If kids are given a snack time at school, don’t forget to pack enough for lunch and snacks.

  • Protein food
  • Whole grain carbohydrate food
  • Fruit and/or vegetable
  • Fun food
  • Water

Examples:

Homemade “Lunchables”

  • Sliced meat and cheese
  • Whole grain crackers
  • Baby carrots and grapes
  • Banana chocolate chip muffin
  • Water

Sandwich

  • Tuna salad sandwich
  • Whole grain bread
  • Snap peas and fruit cup
  • Brownie
  • Water

Leftovers

  • Chicken noodle soup in a thermos, hummus or tzatziki for crackers and celery
  • Whole grain crackers
  • Celery sticks and mandarin orange
  • Gummies
  • Water

Don’t forget food safety – Use ice packs and thermoses to keep foods at a safe temperature until lunch time.

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Capital Construction Project Update | July 2024

Prairie Mountain Health (PMH) continues to move forward on several major construction and renovation projects in partnership with Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long Term Care and Shared Health. The following is a brief update as of mid-July 2024.

Visuals are renderings only and not intended to reflect how the final project will actually appear.

BRHC construction and final rendering

Brandon Regional Health Centre (BRHC)

Construction to expand and renovate clinical spaces within the BRHC campus continues, with work on the new Critical Care bed tower addition. Once completed the entire project will feature:

  • a new 16-bed Intensive Care Unit – main level.
  • approximately 30 additional medical beds on – the 2nd floor.
  • 3rd floor – mechanical space.
  • 4th floor – shell space for future expansions.

The anticipated completion for the Critical Care bed tower project is forecast for the winter of 2026.


Western Manitoba Cancer Centre construction and rendering

Western Manitoba Cancer Care Centre (WMCC)

Work continues on the expanded and renovated WMCC, which serves as a regional cancer hub, providing enhanced cancer services for patients across western Manitoba. The project includes:

  • 9,418-sq.-ft. expansion and renovation of existing space, including additional exam rooms and treatment spaces.
  • space for the ‘Paul Albrechtsen Centre for Hope’ for counselling and recovery patients to have additional support and resources.
  • second medical linear accelerator, used for delivering external beam radiation treatments to patients with cancer.

Total anticipated completion of the project is currently forecast to be late September 2024.


Neepawa Health Centre construction and rendering.

Neepawa Health Centre

The new hospital is being built east of Neepawa on the north side of the Yellowhead highway near the Lions Campground.

It will be over four times the size of the existing hospital, and will better serve patients from this broader western Manitoba geographic area. Features of the new health centre will include:

  • 60 acute care inpatient beds, up from 35 at the current Neepawa site.
  • an expanded emergency department designed to best practice standards that include treatment and assessment rooms, trauma rooms and an ambulance bay.
  • adding a hemodialysis suite with nine dialysis stations.
  • enhanced space for a number of other programs, such as surgery, diagnostics, and palliative care, as well as outpatient services like chemotherapy (6 treatment stations).

The anticipated project completion is summer 2026.


Construction at Dauphin Regional Health Centre

Dauphin Regional Health Centre

Renovations to the Dauphin Regional Health Centre (DRHC) continue through the summer. The second phase of the clinical spaces renovation project includes:

  • adding nine additional inpatient beds (seven on Medicine Unit, two on Surgery).
  • renovating vacated space (former cancer care unit on third floor) into a new physiotherapy area and some administrative offices.
  • renovating a conference room and adding additional storage space.

Phase 2 completion is anticipated by the fall of 2024, therefore further increasing hospital capacity.

Work continues to bring the new Endoscopy suite, which was part of Phase 1, into operation. The new suite on the hospital’s main floor will relocate all endoscopy procedures out of the existing operating room. This will further free up operating space, and increase surgical capacity at DRHC. PMH is working toward having the new suite operational within the next few months.

The initial phase also saw completion of the new cancer care unit on the hospital’s main floor. The new unit opened in January 2024.


Russell Health Centre (Cancer Care unit building expansion)

Russell Health Centre Cancer Care Unit Expansion. Exterior, Interior and Rendering

Construction on the addition to the Russell Health Centre for an expanded cancer care unit is complete. The expansion project added another 3,300 sq.-ft. to the health centre’s existing CancerCare Manitoba chemotherapy treatment space. This is roughly four times the size of the former space and included:

  • replacement of the existing nursing station and medication storage area;
  • creation of a dedicated patient washroom, nourishment area, and a small waiting area;
  • improved patient privacy.

The local Expanding Community Cancer Care Committee (ECCC) raised a majority of the $2.9 million capital construction project. The Province contributed $700,000 for the remaining capital costs.

The new space went into operation for patients and staff July 15.

A grand opening ceremony is being planned for the near future.   


Swan River CT Scanner

Swan River CT scan project

The CT scanner was installed within the Swan Valley Health Centre in May. The new diagnostic equipment went into operation in mid-June. Two x-ray technologists have been trained to operate the scanner.

In addition to a provincial investment of more than $2 million, community groups raised more than $1 million towards the project, which includes equipment, installation and renovation of the space within Swan Valley Health Centre.

The CT scanner will service a population of approximately 14,000. Patients in the area previously had to travel to Dauphin, Brandon or Winnipeg for scans.

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Construction complete at Community Cancer Care Centre in Russell

August 21, 2024

Dignitaries, stakeholders and staff cutting the ribbon to Russell's Cancer Care Building.
Dignitaries, stakeholders and staff gathered to officially cut the ribbon to the new $2.5 million cancer care building adjoined to the Russell Health Centre on August 21, 2024.

Construction to expand Community Cancer Program space at Russell Health Centre has now been completed, and the significant milestone was recognized today with a grand opening celebration. The $2.5 million building expansion, which went into use in mid-July, improves patient experience and access to cancer treatment services for Russell and the surrounding region. The building addition is roughly four times the size of the former space located within the hospital and offers larger patient care areas and improved workspace for staff.

“We’re so proud of the exceptional quality of care delivered by CancerCare here in Russell, and this expansion project will only improve that quality of care for patients,” said Minister of Health, Seniors and Long Term Care Uzoma Asagwara. “Thank you to the dedicated community members who worked to make this expansion a reality. Your hard work will help more Manitobans hear those four amazing words: ‘you are cancer-free'”.

The Expanding Community Cancer Care Committee (ECCC) raised the majority of the funding to construct the 3300 sq. ft building addition, which is aptly named the Community Cancer Care Centre. The province committed $700,000 towards the building addition, which included:

Staff and reception area to the newly expanded Cancer Care Unit at Russell Health Centre
Staff and reception area to the newly expanded Cancer Care Unit at Russell Health Centre
  • relocation of the dedicated nursing station and medication storage area;
  • creation of a dedicated patient washroom, nourishment area, and a small waiting area; and
  • expanded patient care spaces to improve patient privacy.

The Expanding Community Cancer Care (ECCC) committee includes membership from the communities of Angusville, Beulah, Binscarth, Birtle, Foxwarren, Inglis, Langenburg, Sask., Roblin, Rossburn, Russell, St. Lazare, Shellmouth, Silverton, Solsgirth and Waywayseecappo.

“After almost 10 years of fundraising for a new cancer care unit at the Russell Health Centre, we are delighted that this long-awaited project is now a reality,” said Gloria Tibbatts, co-chair, ECCC committee. “Our dream has been fulfilled, and the benefits will serve many. We would like to thank the people from around our region who have supported us. The power of community and of our donors is what made this possible, and we want to thank you from the bottom of our hearts”.

A celebration barbecue was held for staff and stakeholders following the grand opening event at Russell Health Centre.
A celebration barbecue was held for staff and stakeholders following the grand opening event at Russell Health Centre.

Prairie Mountain Health has collaborated with health partners and stakeholders to plan for the necessary building and construction costs and associated timelines for this important capital project.

The regional health authority will contribute annual operating costs related to the expansion, including staffing and supplies.

“We are very grateful to the Expanding Community Cancer Care committee for their vision, hard work and dedication in fundraising for this expansion,” said Treena Slate, Chief Executive Officer, Prairie Mountain Health. “Cancer is a journey, and this new addition will better serve patients and families travelling for care in a more comfortable setting.”

“The expansion of the Community Cancer Program in Russell is a testament to the power of community spirit. By bringing high-quality care closer to home, we are working together to improve access for our cancer patients and honouring the local community’s incredible support and generosity,” said Dr. Navaratnam, President & CEO, CancerCare Manitoba “This project is a shining example of what we can achieve together”.

Russell Cancer Centre Parking lot construction.
Construction on the additional parking lot has commenced. The $800,000 separate project is also being completely funded by the Expanding Community Cancer Committee.

A separate project has just begun with the construction of a new community cancer centre parking lot. The parking lot, which the Expanding Community Cancer Committee is completely funding, is anticipated to be completed this October.

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