BMP Foundation a Key Force in Hospital’s History

By Meredith Mackeen

Following the success of a major financial campaign in 1989, the Brome Missisquoi Perkins Hospital team recognized the benefits of an engaged and mobilized community, and in 1993 established the BMP Foundation as a body that could mobilize and unite the community to help assure the Hospital’s future strength. Amongst key leaders of this undertaking were two Brome Lake residents, Dr. William Barakett and Peter Kerrigan.

That decision proved prescient indeed. During the late 1990s, the Quebec government revealed plans to close the hospital’s trauma/emergency department. Recognizing the negative impact that would have on our region, and on the long-term future of the BMP itself, the Brome-Missisquoi community responded quickly. Many remember the chain of over 2,500 Brome-Missisquoi residents who encircled the hospital in person, as well as the convoy of buses that subsequently transported many hundreds of local residents to the National Assembly in Quebec City to further underline the community’s solidarity and intention to safeguard the BMP Hospital. The message was clear, and the government’s plans were adjusted accordingly.

Enhancing Medical Service

The Foundation has since channeled significant financial support to enhance the hospital’s facilities and provide the latest in equipment, technology, and training for the health-care needs of the region. In recent years, that has included major modernization of the BMP’s emergency, oncology, orthopaedics, medical-imagery, and day-surgery units, to name but a few. Learn more at https://fondationbmp.ca/en/home.

The BMP Hospital remains a precious lifeline for residents of 22 municipalities, thanks to the generosity of private benefactors, volunteers, business leaders, community organizations, and healthcare staff who work to ensure that the hospital maintains a high standard of care. It is broadly recognized as one of Quebec’s best hospitals in terms of community support. The BMP Foundation continues to build on that base of support, not only ensuring better service to the citizens but also playing a key role in attracting new doctors and healthcare professionals to the region – one of the major challenges facing all hospitals at this time.