PORT ANGELES — The Olympic Medical Center Foundation’s Red, Set, Go! Heart Luncheon raised a record amount of funds, the foundation’s executive director said.
The foundation fundraiser presented by the Jamestown S’Klallam tribe at the Vern Burton Community Center in Port Angeles drew more than 270 people and raised its highest net total ever — more than $52,000, said Bruce Skinner, foundation executive director.
“We sold a record amount of corporate sponsorship, had a record attendance and, most importantly, raised more money than ever for Olympic Medical Center’s cardiac facilities in Sequim and Port Angeles,” Skinner said.
“We want to thank both communities for the support of this incredible event.”
Because of the sponsorships, all of the money raised at the luncheon itself will go to the hospital, said foundation President Karen Rogers.
“In the past, we have been able to provide funds for equipment that has saved people’s lives, and we want to continue to do that,” she said.
Money raised this year will go toward the purchase of two treadmills for the hospital.
The annual luncheon promotes the idea that the key to eradicating heart disease is education.
“Many women are surprised to learn that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women,” Rogers said.
Special honorees
Special honorees were Jen Gouge, who recently retired as the medical assistant coordinator for Peninsula College, and Port Angeles resident Betty Wendel, who delivered the event’s annual heart disease survivor story.
Gouge served in her position at the college for 17 years and trained many professionals who are treating patients at OMC and other health care institutions today.
It is also one of the few areas where students can earn four-year degrees at the college.
She instigated many courses, including two programs: infectious diseases and geriatrics.
She was twice invited to present papers on the social consequences of aging at Oxford University in England.
Dr. Samuel Youssef, a Swedish Hospital cardiac surgeon with specialization in robotic cardiac surgery, was the keynote speaker.
He urged the audience to do the things necessary to prevent the disease and to be aware of symptoms.
