NORWICH – The Chenango Memorial Hospital Foundation’s annual campaign has raised $92,436 toward a goal of $103,000. “We’re working hard to exceed last year’s total of $102,183,” commented Linda Tracey Palmatier, Foundation Campaign Chairman. Donations received by February 28 will be added to the campaign total. “We live in a different economy now. It makes fundraising more challenging. We sincerely appreciate all the individual, civic, and corporate donors who choose to support our effort,” added Palmatier.

Employees of UHS Chenango Memorial have played a significant role by raising $19,199 so far. The employee campaign has already exceeded last year’s total and is well on its way toward a goal of $25,000. “Employees see the difference the Foundation is making at the hospital. They experience first hand the benefits of the Foundation’s work in caring for our patients,” said Debbie Cassavaugh, Executive Director of the CMH Foundation.

In April 2011, the CMH Foundation gave $50,000 toward the purchase of a high-def operative tower. Surgeons use the tower during minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures. “The hospital actually needed to replace four towers purchased in the 1990’s. We could no longer repair them or get parts, so it was necessary to buy new ones,” explained Cassavaugh. “With technology advancing all the time, major surgeries of yesterday are becoming minimally invasive surgeries today. The Foundation’s gift will enable the hospital to keep up with the demand,” she added.