On April 16, the FSJ Hospital Foundation, in collaboration with the Fort St. John and District Chamber of Commerce and dedicated medical professionals, hosted an evening tour of the hospital. The event began with brief introductions, followed by an immersive tour where each group visited various departments within the hospital, providing a deeper understanding of the care and tasks healthcare professionals undertake daily.
The tour commenced at the laboratory, where participants learned about the functions of lab equipment. Lab Manager Tara Curry explained the sample processing from start to finish, offering a comprehensive overview of the laboratory’s operations.
Next, the group visited the Microbiology Lab, where Matthew Colburn showcased the capabilities of the newly installed MALDI Biotyper. This advanced equipment enhances the lab’s diagnostic capabilities, contributing significantly to patient care.
A behind-the-scenes look at the Community Cancer Center provided insight into the care cancer patients receive in our community. Manager Elsa Hak highlighted the importance of local treatment, sharing that the best part of her job is sending patients home to their families after treatments.
In the Medical Imaging Department, participants learned that over 46,000 scans are conducted annually. The tour included a demonstration of the new Bone Densitometer and MRI coils, all of which were purchased with donor dollars, showcasing the impact of community support.
This was the first hospital tour in many years, and the feedback was outstanding. One participant remarked, “It was a fantastic tour. It really opened my eyes to how much the hospital, and in turn, the Foundation, does for the community. Seeing everything from the cancer clinic, lab, and ICU put into perspective how much this community needs all the support the Foundation gives.”
