A couple of weeks ago, our Executive Director, Shannon Coull and our Back the Build Campaign Chairperson, Nancy Parks, presented to the newcomers’ group at the Picton Public Library branch. It was an excellent opportunity for them to introduce themselves to those new to Prince Edward County and engage with and educate them about all the happenings underway at our County hospital.

This got me thinking that even though we’ve been writing columns since February 2017, maybe some of you are new to our community and reading for the first time. I thought it might be fun to re-introduce myself, so here goes.

Tell us a little about yourself!

Hi, my name is Briar Boyce, and I’m the Senior Development Officer at Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital Foundation (PECMHF). I have been at PECMHF for just over 15 years.

In one sentence, how would you explain your job to a friend?

Our team builds relationships with donors and helps them feel recognized for their contributions to Prince Edward County Memorial Hospital.

What makes you passionate about the work you do?

I’m proud to work at our County hospital! What’s even more important to me is the team I work with. Being part of the foundation team allows me to work with other extraordinary individuals, each with their specialized skillset. All of us are passionate about improving access to healthcare in our community. Our dynamic team of four works hard to impact the lives of others positively, and we are working towards the same goal: raising money for PECMH to serve the community and the hospital’s patients best. I appreciate my colleagues. We are very collegial and trust each other greatly. And we have fun along the way!

Do you have a favourite fundraising initiative?

I would have to say our Care Champion program! Fundraising for me is all about community, and our Care Champion program is rooted in the exceptional care provided by the medical team at the hospital. When a grateful patient or family member makes a gift in honour of a nurse, doctor, or any staff member who went above and beyond in providing care, the Care Champion receives a personalized certificate. These donations help future patients receive quality care at our hospital and give the recipient a special spark of energy. I love seeing how people’s faces light up when they read the messages from the donors…their former patients.

Why is it important to you to give back to PECM Hospital Foundation as a donor?

When it comes to generosity, no matter how much I can give, I feel good knowing I am investing in the future of healthcare delivery in Prince Edward County. That is why I am enrolled in PECMHF’s monthly giving program. Being a donor means building a better future for the hospital and future generations in The County.

What inspires you?

I am inspired by making people feel good about the gifts they are giving. I want everyone who donates to feel like their gift matters and that we are grateful for it. And we are! It feels meaningful when I receive a donation from someone in the community. It’s rewarding to learn about them and what motivated them to give. That inspires me to keep doing what I’m doing.

All the talented Care Champions working at our hospital also inspire me. I have gotten to know and learn from so many unique individuals over the past 15 years, many of whom have become lifelong friends. Being part of the foundation team also allows me to support the morale of the staff at the hospital. I love that we can celebrate people…donors, staff, or otherwise. Working at the hospital is a beautiful way to serve my community.

For information about our hospital or to donate, call 613-476-1008 ext. 4502 or visit our website at www.pecmhf.ca.