Events are an exciting way to give back to local health care. Join the Health Services Foundation for one of its three annual events. Or host an event yourself!
To find out more about how you can help with any of our other events, please call 902-521-9522 or email Melissa Patterson
Each June, the Health Services Foundation is pleased to report to its supporters the impact they have had on local health care over the past twelve months, as well upcoming projects in our Lunenburg County hospitals.
The 16th Annual Gift From The Heart Radiothon is returning to CKBW and Country 100.7 on February 13, 2026.
Last year, our South Shore community rallied with incredible generosity — raising over $171,000 to bring MOLLI technology to South Shore Regional Hospital and revolutionizing breast cancer surgery for local patients. That success proved what we can achieve when we come together with purpose and compassion.
This year, we’re building on that momentum with an even greater mission: to bring Breast MRI technology to the South Shore, expanding access to advanced screening and early detection for women across our region and throughout Nova Scotia. Together, we can ensure that world-class breast cancer care is available close to home, when and where it’s needed most.
We invite you to give a Gift from the Heart to support breast cancer patients at South Shore Regional Hospital. Every gift helps us move closer to providing life-changing care and comfort for our patients.
Increasing Breast MRI Access in Nova Scotia
For many families on the South Shore, facing a possible breast cancer diagnosis already brings enough fear and uncertainty. But for high-risk patients in our community, the journey to answers often begins with a long drive to one of only three hospitals in Nova Scotia equipped to perform breast MRIs.
Last year and this year alone, more than 100 patients from our region had no choice but to travel to Halifax, Sydney, or Yarmouth for imaging that could determine the next steps in their care. And if that MRI revealed something suspicious, the journey still wasn’t over. They had to return home, wait for a new appointment, then make another trip back to South Shore Regional Hospital (SSRH) days or weeks later for a biopsy.
This is what access to breast cancer screening looks like today for many of our neighbours: multiple trips, long waits, mounting anxiety, and care that feels too far away at the moment they need it most.
Breast MRI, recommended for high-risk patients, complements mammograms by providing clearer images, especially for those with dense breast tissue or implants. With this new equipment, including an MRI Breast Coil and Vacuum Assisted Biopsy System, we can offer both MRI and biopsy in one visit, saving patients time and stress.
Local Patient Stories
Read Stephanie's Story
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 35 years old, my world turned upside down. I am incredibly fortunate to have received the majority of my cancer care at South Shore Regional Hospital. During my breast cancer journey, I learned that I have level D – women with dense breast tissue face both a higher risk of developing cancer and greater difficulty in detecting it through mammography alone.
Because of my breast density, my care team recommended regular MRI screening, but my request was initially denied due to limited access in the province. Determined to ensure I received the care she needed, my doctors advocated on my behalf until I was finally able to secure an appointment — one that required a two-and-a-half-hour drive each way. What should have been a routine screening became an all-day journey marked by stress, expenses, and uncertainty.
Because of my breast density, my care team recommended regular MRI screening, but my request was initially denied due to limited access in the province. Determined to ensure I received the care she needed, my doctors advocated on my behalf until I was finally able to secure an appointment — one that required a two-and-a-half-hour drive each way. What should have been a routine screening became an all-day journey marked by stress, expenses, and uncertainty.
Together, we can change the story for women like me — and for every woman on the South Shore who deserves the best possible care, right here at home.
.
Read Annette's Story
"Mom, what’s wrong?" How can I tell my 11, 14 and 17 year old I’ve got breast cancer. That was the beginning. I was 41.
No lump, bump, nipple leakage or changes but a slight ridge that appeared when laying on my side. It’s nothing I was told but we’ll do a mammogram. Breast density Categories A, B, C and D is determined by mammography. Tumours are often invisible in dense tissue Category C and D and mammograms alone are not enough for an accurate diagnosis. I was told my mammogram was clear and I was good to go but my biopsy said otherwise.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ followed by Invasive Lobular Carcinoma spreading to 30% of my lymph nodes which were grossly involved. Not one, but two tumours. Treatments were long and hard and after much advocacy, this now includes an MRI in Yarmouth. This MRI is crucial for accurate and timely diagnosis for patients with dense breasts as well as other diseases.
At a time when patients face life threatening diseases, MRI services in Bridgewater will provide a better quality of cancer care and save lives. I for one, will be forever grateful to my cancer care team who never ceased to advocate for me.
The 16th Annual Gift From The Heart Radiothon is returning to CKBW and Country 100.7 on February 13, 2026. Last year, our South Shore community rallied with incredible generosity — raising over $171,000 to bring MOLLI technology to South Shore Regional Hospital and revolutionizing breast cancer surgery for local patients. That success proved what we…
The 16th Annual Gift From The Heart Radiothon is returning to CKBW and Country 100.7 on February 13, 2026.
Last year, our South Shore community rallied with incredible generosity — raising over $171,000 to bring MOLLI technology to South Shore Regional Hospital and revolutionizing breast cancer surgery for local patients. That success proved what we can achieve when we come together with purpose and compassion.
This year, we’re building on that momentum with an even greater mission: to bring Breast MRI technology to the South Shore, expanding access to advanced screening and early detection for women across our region and throughout Nova Scotia. Together, we can ensure that world-class breast cancer care is available close to home, when and where it’s needed most.
We invite you to give a Gift from the Heart to support breast cancer patients at South Shore Regional Hospital. Every gift helps us move closer to providing life-changing care and comfort for our patients.
Increasing Breast MRI Access in Nova Scotia
For many families on the South Shore, facing a possible breast cancer diagnosis already brings enough fear and uncertainty. But for high-risk patients in our community, the journey to answers often begins with a long drive to one of only three hospitals in Nova Scotia equipped to perform breast MRIs.
Last year and this year alone, more than 100 patients from our region had no choice but to travel to Halifax, Sydney, or Yarmouth for imaging that could determine the next steps in their care. And if that MRI revealed something suspicious, the journey still wasn’t over. They had to return home, wait for a new appointment, then make another trip back to South Shore Regional Hospital (SSRH) days or weeks later for a biopsy.
This is what access to breast cancer screening looks like today for many of our neighbours: multiple trips, long waits, mounting anxiety, and care that feels too far away at the moment they need it most.
Breast MRI, recommended for high-risk patients, complements mammograms by providing clearer images, especially for those with dense breast tissue or implants. With this new equipment, including an MRI Breast Coil and Vacuum Assisted Biopsy System, we can offer both MRI and biopsy in one visit, saving patients time and stress.
Local Patient Stories
Read Annette's Story
"Mom, what’s wrong?" How can I tell my 11, 14 and 17 year old I’ve got breast cancer. That was the beginning. I was 41.
No lump, bump, nipple leakage or changes but a slight ridge that appeared when laying on my side. It’s nothing I was told but we’ll do a mammogram. Breast density Categories A, B, C and D is determined by mammography. Tumours are often invisible in dense tissue Category C and D and mammograms alone are not enough for an accurate diagnosis. I was told my mammogram was clear and I was good to go but my biopsy said otherwise.
Ductal Carcinoma In Situ followed by Invasive Lobular Carcinoma spreading to 30% of my lymph nodes which were grossly involved. Not one, but two tumours. Treatments were long and hard and after much advocacy, this now includes an MRI in Yarmouth. This MRI is crucial for accurate and timely diagnosis for patients with dense breasts as well as other diseases.
At a time when patients face life threatening diseases, MRI services in Bridgewater will provide a better quality of cancer care and save lives. I for one, will be forever grateful to my cancer care team who never ceased to advocate for me.
"Mom, what’s wrong?" How can I tell my 11, 14 and 17 year old I’ve go
Read Stephanie's Story
When I was diagnosed with breast cancer at just 35 years old, my world turned upside down. I am incredibly fortunate to have received the majority of my cancer care at South Shore Regional Hospital. During my breast cancer journey, I learned that I have level D – women with dense breast tissue face both a higher risk of developing cancer and greater difficulty in detecting it through mammography alone.
Because of my breast density, my care team recommended regular MRI screening, but my request was initially denied due to limited access in the province. Determined to ensure I received the care she needed, my doctors advocated on my behalf until I was finally able to secure an appointment — one that required a two-and-a-half-hour drive each way. What should have been a routine screening became an all-day journey marked by stress, expenses, and uncertainty.
Because of my breast density, my care team recommended regular MRI screening, but my request was initially denied due to limited access in the province. Determined to ensure I received the care she needed, my doctors advocated on my behalf until I was finally able to secure an appointment — one that required a two-and-a-half-hour drive each way. What should have been a routine screening became an all-day journey marked by stress, expenses, and uncertainty.
Together, we can change the story for women like me — and for every woman on the South Shore who deserves the best possible care, right here at home.
.
As we celebrate the 25th and final year of West Nova Fuels Curl for a Cause, we reflect on the incredible journey we’ve taken together to support Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital in Lunenburg. Over the past 24 years, West Nova Fuels Curl for a Cause has raised over $885,000, funding more than 100 pieces of essential medical equipment for our community hospital. We are now on the brink of an extraordinary milestone—raising $1 million—and we need your help to achieve this goal.
The Health Services Foundation’s Lift Fishermen’s campaign will see 23 ceiling lifts be installed throughout our hospital. These lifts are vital for promoting mobility and dignity for patients who require assistance. They not only enhance patient care but also significantly reduce the risk of injury among our dedicated healthcare team. Your support can make a profound difference in the lives of patients and healthcare workers alike, ensuring a safer and more comfortable experience for everyone at Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital.
Together, we can reach our goal and celebrate the legacy of West Nova Fuels Curl for a Cause in a way that truly honors our commitment to community health. Please join us in donating to Lift Fishermen’s!
Thank you for your continued support and for being an essential part of our community. Let’s make this year’s Curl for a Cause the most impactful one yet! Donate here!
Want more information on how to be involved? Email melissa.patterson@nshealth.ca.
Vegas is coming to the South Shore, thanks to the Charm Diamond Centres' Monte Carlo Night!
Come test "lady luck" during this interactive night of fun and “fun”draising, all in support of local healthcare.
2023 event information to come soon!
**NEW** purchase a ticket for a hard-working hospital worker in Lunenburg County! Treat a local health care hero to a night out, thanks to you!
You have the power to make our local hospitals stronger!
It can be as simple as asking for a donation in place of a birthday present, or as extravagant as a concert or a dance. Every bit helps as we strive to bring the best health care services to Lunenburg County.
Want to hold an event in support of South Shore Regional or Fishermen’s Memorial Hospital? Follow these three easy steps:
- Contact Melissa Patterson (902-543-8065) to discuss your event. Even find out how the Foundation may be able to help promote it.
- Fill out a Special Event Agreement application and return it to the Health Services Foundation for approval.
- Raise funds!
Now all that’s left is being appreciated by everyone benefiting from your generosity!
Need a fundraising brainstorm? Check out the Health Services Foundation's Fundraising Guide.
