During his lifetime, Robert (Bob) Cunningham was a well-known local businessman, sport enthusiast, and committed community volunteer, including at Cambridge Memorial Hospital (CMH) and CMH Foundation. Deeply devoted to his community and its well-being, Bob was known for his intelligence, business acumen, and deep desire to help others. He played pivotal Director roles on both Boards at the Hospital and helped set the future vision of care for the community.
On August 30th, the trustees of his estate announced a $2 million legacy gift to CMH that Bob provided in his will. The funds will purchase high-tech medication management and dispensing equipment for the Hospital’s Pharmacy Department and boost the Foundation’s fundraising efforts to purchase a new MRI for CMH.
“It was a pleasure to work with Bob on our Board and committees,” said Lisa Short, Executive Director, CMH Foundation. “Bob always encouraged others to play their part in supporting the Hospital, and with his final gift we hope others are also inspired to help us raise MRI funds and best serve our community.”
The Pharmacy’s gift portion of just over $1.47 million will purchase five priority items, including a medication packager and medication carousel that together cost $1.1M. The items will propel CMH’s Pharmacy forward in the use of digital, automated systems that enhance patient safety, medication delivery and effectiveness, and staff efficiencies. “Medication, and therefore the Pharmacy, touches all patients. It is a special donor who understands the value of investing in the work that often is behind the scenes yet is so important to the care our Hospital delivers to patients every day,” said Jennifer Visocchi, Director of Pharmacy, adding “we’re so thankful to Bob and his compassion for others, that enabled this gift.”
The gift is also providing a $500,000 boost to Spotlight MRI that seeks to raise $5 million from the community for a new MRI at CMH. The gift from Mr. Cunningham’s estate leaps Spotlight MRI to $2.6 million raised to date and lifts the appeal to over 50% of goal. Kenneth Abogadil, Director Diagnostic Imaging, Laboratory, Cardiac Diagnostics shared his appreciation on behalf of staff, saying “having access to the latest diagnostic equipment like MRI means we can diagnose sooner in the disease process. Quicker diagnosis means earlier treatment for patients, with improved outcomes, which is what we want for our community, and Mr. Cunningham’s gift brings us closer to this important goal.”
In addition to this gift, Bob’s generous $1 million gift to the WeCareCMH campaign during his lifetime is the largest gift from an individual to the Hospital. Today’s $2 million announcement brings Mr. Cunningham’s cumulative giving to over $3 million – the most from an individual in CMH’s history.
“During his time on our Board, Bob was always keenly interested in ensuring the best healthcare was available for the community, and his wise counsel focussed on enhancing the Hospital’s care to all residents. To witness his legacy this way, to share Bob’s desire for accessible local healthcare, is meaningful for us,” said Patrick Gaskin, CMH President and CEO.
In recognition of Bob’s generosity, CMH’s new, recently opened Diagnostic Imaging Department where the gift was announced, will be named in his honour.
Read more about Spotlight MRI, or donate here
Learn about the impact of Legacy Giving to CMH