PORT TOWNSEND — A luncheon isn’t possible given COVID-19 restrictions, but the Jefferson Healthcare Foundation is celebrating well hearts anyway, in a virtual setting.
“We discussed what we could do to serve our community during this very difficult time,” said Board President Shary Irwin, a registered nurse who retired after 25 years at Jefferson Healthcare and who has served also as a volunteer firefighter/EMT, a fire commissioner, and on committees at Quimper Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.
“We decided to turn our website into a source for encouragement and joy,” Irwin said. “Throughout the month of February, we’ll offer stories, tips, and activities for the care of our hearts, from exercise and reducing stress, to connecting with others and the arts.”
All resources and activities are offered for free at jeffersonhealthcare foundation.org. Donations are welcome.
For five years, Jefferson Healthcare Foundation hosted its annual Well Hearts Luncheon, a fundraising event to benefit heart health in the county.
Since its inception in 2014, the luncheon catered by Chef Arran Stark has raised $97,000 for cardiology equipment and programs at Jefferson Healthcare, according to the foundation.
With in-person gatherings on hold due to the pandemic, the foundation’s board found another way to focus on heart health this month.
Funds raised form donations will support charity care for heart patients in need.
“Heart conditions and recovery don’t go away when someone loses their job or their insurance during the pandemic. In fact, stressors like these make the need for care greater than ever,” said board member Brian Vervynck.
“Community involvement ensures that everyone gets the help they need.”
With a mission to “enhance the excellence of our region’s medical services through charitable contributions and community involvement,” Jefferson Healthcare Foundation believes that every Jefferson County resident deserves access to the best medical practices, treatments and technology.
Donations of every amount support the projects, programs and people — patients, loved ones and employees — of Jefferson Healthcare’s hospital and clinics.
