The Delta Hospital Auxiliary took some time last week to celebrate its volunteers.
Saturday, May 10 was Auxiliary Day in B.C. and on Friday the Delta Hospital Auxiliary celebrated its work and its volunteers at a ceremony at the hospital.
Auxiliary volunteers, easily spotted by their signature blue smocks and friendly smiles, contributed 100,000 hours last year and hard work over the years has contributed to raising millions of dollars to improve the hospital and make patients stays more comfortable.
For more than 40 years, the Delta Hospital Auxiliary has been raising money to help purchase needed equipment, as well as running programs aimed at enhancing patient comfort and care.
Most recently, the auxiliary committed to raising $2.4 million for the Delta Hospital Foundation's campaign to relocate, expand and enhance the diagnostic services unit at the hospital.
"We are well on our way to reaching that goal," said auxiliary president Marilyn Jones.
The foundation is aiming to raise $7.5 million for the $12.5 million project.
Local politicians from all levels of government were on hand to recognize the auxiliary's work.
"It's an amazing success," said Delta South MLA Vicki Huntington. "I just truly, truly appreciate everything that you do for the community."
Delta North MLA Scott Hamilton said the hospital offers the best care in the Lower Mainland.
"When I think how far this facility has come in so few years... you do an incredible job supporting this hospital."
"It's absolutely phenomenal, the money that you're able to raise," said Coun. Ian Paton.
MP Kerry-Lynne Findlay was also on hand to celebrate the auxiliary. "As a Delta resident, I'm extremely proud of the Delta Hospital Auxiliary and the work they do," she said.
While recognizing the work done by the auxiliary, Findlay also took time to honour one volunteer in particular.
Friday, May 9 was also the day the federal government proclaimed as National Day of Honour to mark the end of Canada's military mission in Afghanistan.
Maj. Rev. Jim Short, who is also an auxiliary volunteer, spent eight months in Afghanistan serving as a chaplain. Part of his duties included attending the military hospital where he would offer comfort and support to the wounded, both soldiers and civilians.
"Unless you've lived in the war-torn country, you don't know what it's like to walk through a hospital with nothing," Short said, describing doctors desperate for any supplies and nurses washing bandages and boiling needles.
"We have a really good life here," he said. "And to whom much is given, much is expected."
