There’s something special about this time of year—it’s time once again for the GX94 Airwaves for Health Radiothon. It’s more than just a fundraiser. It’s a chance for our community to come together and make a real, lasting impact on healthcare right here at home.
This year’s focus is on expanding surgical capacity, and at the heart of that goal is the renovation of the Endoscopy surgical suite. Now, that might sound like a lot of medical jargon, but what it really means is better, faster care for people in our region. Endoscopy procedures—like colonoscopies and other diagnostic tests—are essential tools doctors use to detect and treat issues early. These procedures can identify cancer, stop internal bleeding, and even remove problematic growths without the need for major surgery.
Right now, the demand for these procedures is high, and the system is stretched to its limits. The Yorkton Regional Hospital currently performs about 2,500 endoscopy procedures each year. With the planned renovation, that number could grow by another 500 to 600 annually. That’s hundreds more people getting answers sooner, receiving treatment faster, and avoiding long trips out of town. It’s about keeping care close to home, where it belongs.
But that’s not the only area making a difference.
Two years ago, a partnership with Suncrest College brought a Diagnostic Sonography program to Yorkton—helping address a long-standing shortage of ultrasound technicians in rural Saskatchewan. Now, the first group of students is ready to begin their practicums, and three of them will be training right here in our community.
To make that possible, there’s a need for an additional ultrasound machine along with specialized equipment. This isn’t just about training—it’s about building a stronger healthcare workforce for the future. At the same time, it ensures patients continue to get timely access to important diagnostic exams, even while students are learning.
There are other critical pieces of equipment on the wish list as well. A Rapid Infusion System, for example, can be the difference-maker in life-threatening emergencies, delivering warmed blood and fluids quickly when seconds count. Upgrades for the ICU, Laboratory, and Emergency Department will also help ensure local healthcare teams have the tools they need to provide top-quality care without delay.
At the end of the day, this radiothon is about people. It’s about your neighbor, your friend, your family member—and maybe even you. It’s about making sure that when someone needs care, it’s there when they need it most.
If you’re able to help, donations can be made by calling 1-800-636-3243. Every contribution, big or small, helps move us closer to a stronger, healthier community.
Because when we invest in healthcare here at home, everyone benefits.
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