The TB Vets Charitable Foundation recently donated a piece of medical equipment to Abbotsford Regional Hospital (ARH) to help patients who have serious breathing difficulties.
The organization donated a BiPAP V680, a critical-care ventilator which is the first BiPAP (bilevel positive airway pressure) unit at ARH that is approved for use with pediatric patients.
BiPAP is used to treat patients with progressive lung disease.
Mike McAllister, clinical practice leader of respiratory services, said the new equipment has been an “essential tool” for respiratory therapists to help patients of all ages.
“Every year, we see more patients who need the breathing assistance that we are able to provide with the BiPAP,” he said.
“Having one more of these units available means patients are able to quickly get the help they need.”
McAllister said the donation of a machine that can be used for pediatric patients is also “very timely” because they are seeing more young patients at ARH with breathing difficulties.
“Having a BiPAP V680 is essential in stabilizing these patients for transfer,” he said.
The mission of TB Vets is to sponsor life-saving respiratory equipment for British Columbians of all ages.
The donation was made to ARH through the Fraser Valley Health Care Foundation, which raises funds for vital equipment and programs funded or endorsed by the Fraser Health Authority.
The foundation serves Abbotsford, Mission, Chilliwack, Hope, Agassiz and Harrison Hot Springs.
Visit fvhcf.ca for more information or call the FVHCF office at 1-877-661-0314.
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