Your Stories

Evening chores to the ICU

Evening chores are a regular routine for Becky Oakley, who owns and operates Coachlight, an equestrian centre in Midland.  The evening of Friday, October 19, 2018 began like any other, as she headed out to the barn on her own.

“I had my pony, Cotton, tied in the aisle while she ate. Something must have startled her, making her kick out with both back feet. I remember seeing her kick, and then I remember waking up on the floor about 50 ft. away. I couldn’t catch my breath, and I could barely move.  The pain was incredible.”

Becky crawled to the other side of the barn to retrieve her phone, and she called for help. When she arrived at Georgian Bay General Hospital, the team determined she had a life-threatening intra-abdominal injury, and she was rushed into surgery.

“Dr. Churchill saved my life, 100%,” shares Becky. “She is a fantastic surgeon.”

With significant damage to her bowel and kidney, Becky was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), where she stayed for two months.  Her condition was complicated by sepsis, requiring prolonged intubation, and it was not certain if she would ever be able to return to her former level of physical ability.

Two months later, on December 20, Becky was discharged from the ICU and began rehabilitation therapy at GBGH.

“I am so grateful for the care and compassion I received from the staff at GBGH. All the nurses, doctors and specialists in the ICU are incredible,” continues Becky.  “There were so many people involved in my recovery.  They saved my life, plus set me up for success when I came home to recover.”

Today, Becky has made a full recovery and has returned to enjoying life on the farm. She is incredibly grateful for the care she received at GBGH, both during her treatment and recovery.

“Without the support of the GBGH Foundation, and the community, I would not be here today,” says Becky.  “We need community support to provide the critical equipment and technology so the staff can provide the best care, like they did for me.”

Eleanor Allgood

When Eleanor Allgood moved to Victoria Harbour in 2010, she was surrounded with neighbours who were connected to Georgian Bay General Hospital & the GBGH Foundation.  She quickly learned about the importance of community support in ensuring a strong future for her local hospital, and in 2016, she joined the Cornerstone Partners program through the Foundation. 

“I think it’s so beneficial for our community to have a local hospital,” shares Eleanor.  “It gives me a level of comfort and safety, knowing the hospital is close by if I ever need care.  I feel it’s important that we as a community help to keep the hospital going.”  

Eleanor stays connected to what is happening at the hospital by attending events (pre-pandemic) and reading the Foundation newsletters. She appreciates that her membership alongside other Cornerstone Partners helps her to feel like she is a part of something that is making a difference. 

In an email update from the Foundation earlier this year, Eleanor saw that Bourgeois Auto Group was matching new monthly donations in 2021.  She immediately elevated her annual giving by adding a monthly gift!   

“Bourgeois Motors is making an impact for our hospital,” shares Eleanor. “It is very generous of them, and I knew I could help contribute with a monthly donation.  I would encourage others to join us.  If it’s within your means to make a monthly gift, it’s a great thing to do!” 

Monthly giving is an easy and meaningful way to support your hospital, and ensure exceptional care for patients now and in the future.  Consider what you can give to have a positive impact on your Georgian Bay General Hospital.  For more information, click here or contact Lisa Wanamaker, Donor Relations & Stewardship Officer (wanamakerl@gbgh.on.ca or 705-526-1300 ext. 5342)