Christmas Comes Early in the NICU

DECEMBER 16, 2011

A very special gift arrived for some of the smallest patients at the Royal Alexandra Hospital just in time for the holidays. Thanks to the generosity of a local group, the Honourable Order of the Blue Goose, a specialized piece of equipment called a Transcutaneous Carbon Dioxide-Oxygen Monitor was delivered to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit recently and was like “Christmas morning” said staff.

“We were so excited when it arrived!” says Dr. Marcia Antunes, Neonatologist at the Royal Alexandra Hospital. “We’ve needed this machine for quite some time, and it really is the best Christmas gift we could have received.”

The Transcutaneous CO2 monitor provides non-invasive and continuous monitoring of a baby’s ventilation, oxygenation and heart rate.  The NICU treats critically ill newborns and premature babies and caring for these fragile infants requires specialized equipment such as this.

“This machine allows us to closely monitor a baby without needing to do invasive blood work,” says Dr. Marcia Antunes. “It provides continuous data which is very reassuring when treating premature babies. We use this machine all day long now and it has literally changed our practice- we couldn’t be more grateful to the Order of the Blue Goose and the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation.”

The Honourable Order of the Blue Goose Edmonton Pond, hosted a charity gala and auction on May 7, 2011 and raised $15,500 which was donated to the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation to purchase the Transcutaneous CO2 Monitor for the NICU.  

Andrew Happer, Most Loyal Gander of the Edmonton Pond of the Blue Goose, was delighted that his group could help.

“When we heard there was a strong need for this piece of equipment in the NICU at the Royal Alex, we made it our mission to host a successful event and fund this critical machine,” says Happer. “It is so rewarding to hear what a difference this monitor is making and what perfect timing for it to arrive just before Christmas- we’re thrilled.”

Through community support such as this, the Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation is able to help fund critical equipment, research and education.

“We are so thankful to the Order of the Blue Goose for stepping forward and supporting our hospital,” says Andrew Otway, President & CEO, Royal Alexandra Hospital Foundation. “This truly exemplifies the power of generosity and the spirit of the season.”