The Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary in Merritt, BC, is a shining example of what dedication, heart, and community spirit can achieve. This remarkable group has announced another generous gift of $100,000 to the Royal Inland Hospital Foundation to support the development of a Hybrid Operating Room at RIH, a state-of-the-art space that will transform surgical care in our region, reducing travel and ensuring patients receive advanced treatment closer to home.
For the Auxiliary, giving back isn’t just about today; it’s about preparing for the future. They know how many residents in Merritt and surrounding rural communities rely on RIH for life-saving care, and they’re determined to ensure the hospital has the resources and technology to meet these growing needs.
Members often share that their motivation comes from firsthand experience with the excellent care provided at RIH. That personal connection, combined with decades of volunteering, makes their giving both heartfelt and forward-thinking.
Their story extends far beyond donations. The Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary is built on deep connections and a long tradition of service. Some members have volunteered for over 50 years, forming lasting friendships and collaborating to make a difference. What began decades ago with 25–30 volunteers have grown into a thriving organization with a beloved, beautifully organized thrift shop in the heart of Merritt. Offering affordable treasures to the community, the shop raises essential funds that go directly back into healthcare.
As a tribute to this remarkable group, their name is proudly displayed on Triage Room 4 of the Teck Emergency Department, a lasting reminder of their dedication and impact. We are deeply grateful to the Nicola Valley Health Care Auxiliary for their extraordinary generosity, vision, and commitment. Their legacy is not only in the funds they raise but in the spirit of community they embody, a spirit ensuring better healthcare for Merritt, Kamloops, and every patient in the Thompson Cariboo Shuswap region.
