Christmas 50/50 “Life-changing” For Us All
Published Monday, January 15, 2024
Christmas 50/50 “Life-changing” For Us All
Message from Parker Jones
Chair, Board of Directors, Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation
In a world where hyperbole often takes the stage, the significance of labelling something as "life-changing" can be diluted. However, the impact is genuinely profound when it comes to the Thunder Bay 50/50 and the special Christmas 50/50 this month.
Consider the guaranteed $2 Million Grand Prize. Instantly becoming a multi-millionaire undeniably reshapes one's life. Additionally, for the lucky winners of the Bonus Draws, receiving $25,000 brings about a positive shift—whether it's settling bills or enjoying a vacation somewhere you have always wanted to visit.
What truly excites me is that the Thunder Bay 50/50 is transformative for everyone involved. A significant portion of your ticket purchase contributes to crucial healthcare equipment and programs, directly impacting lives daily. This year, the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre will fund over $7.2 million in Hospital projects including many at hospitals throughout the region – almost triple what the Health Sciences Foundation used to fund annually. In the past four years, the Thunder Bay 50/50 Draw has helped us give $21 million in grants and funding to our Hospital.
One project I’m especially happy to see is a new clinical trial using the PET/CT scanner to diagnose prostate cancer. This was previously unfeasible due to the lack of a secure supply of necessary radioisotopes for scans. Now, thanks to our cyclotron, we can get those radioisotopes from across the parking lot instead of across the province, offering another option for prostate cancer screening in our region.
Other funded projects include a new C-arm for the operating room, a CT scanner replacement, a new Cardiac Cath Lab, and upgrades to our Emergency Department.
Closer-to-home healthcare is one of the reasons why I volunteer my time at the Foundation. That came into tighter focus when my own family had to travel to Toronto for care. I know firsthand how much more difficult travelling for care is. Thanks to these and other grants made possible with proceeds from Thunder Bay 50/50, more patients are getting more care here at home than ever before.
This holiday season, please consider buying Christmas 50/50 tickets for your loved ones or for yourself. The $100 Super Holiday Ticket is the best value with 700 numbers. Remember, regardless of who wins the guaranteed $2 Million Grand Prize, we all emerge as winners.
Explore thunderbay5050.ca or join us at the Christmas 50/50 Pop-up Store in the Food Court at Intercity Shopping Centre.
I wish you and your loved ones a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays.
Parker Jones