B.C. mining companies show they have a heart

British Columbia’s mining industry has helped the province’s Children’s Hospital hit pay dirt by pledging $750,000 for equipment and renovations to the institution’s Cardiac Unit.

The pledges are part of the “Mining for Miracles” campaign, which annually provides funds for the hospital to buy new equipment and renovate space.

The Cardiac Unit is the only facility in the province equipped and staffed to handle the delicate and specialized treatments, open-heart surgeries and heart transplants needed by these tiny patients.

Thanks to the generosity of the mining industry, more equipment for non-invasive procedures will be available, including Echo Cardiac treatment rooms and catheterization facilities. Advanced stress-testing equipment for gauging patients’ needs and progress will also be made available. A new research lab is on the drawing boards and a new waiting area and play rooms are planned. The mining industry’s campaign has reached 90% of its goal, and the organizers hope further contributions will put it “over the top.” For more information, contact Douglas Fraser of Placer Dome Canada by phoning (604) 661-1991.