A Prince Albert couple were a big reason why this year’s Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital (JPCH) Radiothon was a huge success.
That’s according to Brynn Boback-Lane, President and CEO of Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation, who got emotional while talking to paNOW about Gord and Barb Broda.
“They’re part of the fabric of their own community but also the provincial community. They support many worthwhile organizations, we’re grateful that we’re own of them,” she said.
The Broda’s ended up donating $150,000 to the fundraiser, helping bring the total to a record-breaking $1.15 million. This crushed the previous record of $761,000 raised during last year’s fundraiser.
Boback-Lane explained the Broda’s actually helped them raise $300,000 as they promised to match donations up to $150,000.
“When there is a match available others are excited that they can double their donation,” she said.
The Broda’s also spoke to paNOW and explained they’ve been a big supporter of the hospital ever since it was first announced.
“We want to continue showing our support as the needs for the hospital are endless,” said Gord.
Every time they donate, the two receive countless messages from people thanking them. Barb noted they don’t do this for praise, but it warms their hearts every time someone reaches out.
“The heartfelt thanks are unbelievable. It’s crazy wonderful to be able to help these families and to know we’ve made a difference,” she said.
Meanwhile, Boback-Lane was more than happy to talk about the Broda’s and their support but also mentioned they’re grateful for every donation they received.
They’ll be used to support different departments throughout the hospital, though the pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) will receive the bulk of the funds.
“This unit is a critical part of the provincial hub where highly skilled medical professionals require specialized training to navigate life-threatening conditions and really save Saskatchewan children’s lives.”
According to the Foundation, over 80,000 babies and children visit annually with 62 per cent of PICU patients being from outside of Saskatoon.
In total, 32 radio stations across the province took part in the two-day fundraiser including Pattison Media stations in Prince Albert, Power99, Beach Radio 101.5 and 900; Melfort, CJVR FM and 750 Beach Radio; North Battleford, 1050 CJNB, Q98 and 93.3 Beach Radio; and Meadow Lake, 102.3 CJNS.
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Jaryn.Vecchio@pattisonmedia.com
On X: @princealbertnow
