The Chapleau General Hospital Foundation is launching a campaign for better diagnostics with the help of several generous donors. McDougall Energy, Imperial Oil, and Brunswick House First Nation have donated a combined $12,500 towards a new ultrasound machine for Chapleau.

After the recent purchase of an AutoPulse, the need for a new ultrasound machine has been identified. While the current ultrasound machine is in working condition the technology has become dated and is less precise than the current standard.

Ultrasounds are used for imaging across the body and at any age. They are used for check-ups during pregnancy and help doctors determine due dates. Ultrasounds are also used to diagnose tumours, blood clots, aneurysms, gallstones, and many other conditions.

It will cost $100,000 to replace Chapleau's ultrasound machine. McDougall Energy and Imperial Oil who have given consistently to the Chapleau Hospital over the past ten years have given a joint donation of $10,000 towards the ultrasound. When asked about the donation, Darren McDougall President of McDougall Energy Inc. had this to say:

"We at McDougall Energy are proud to once again support the Chapleau General Hospital Foundation in their effort of funding quality local healthcare services to its citizens. Through our Community Investment Program we are pleased to assist in the purchasing of much needed diagnostic equipment. On behalf of our Chapleau team, extended families and our partner, Imperial, we are pleased to help provide health care practitioners with the tools they need to continue to deliver health-care excellence in Northern Ontario."

"Imperial and McDougall Energy have a long and proud history, and we are pleased to support the Chapleau General Hospital Foundation via the Esso Community Program. The Esso Community Program was created to support initiatives that have a positive impact on the community, as well as reinforce the commitment of Esso branded retailers and associates to the communities where their customers live," said Martyn Iles, Senior Fuels Account Executive, Fuels Marketing - Wholesale & Specialties, Imperial Oil.

Brunswick House First Nation has also stepped up and given $2,500 towards the goal of keeping world-class diagnosis close to home. "Brunswick House First Nation was happy to help launch the Ultrasound fundraising campaign. It is our commitment towards the health and well-being of all the people in our communities" said Chief Kevin Tangie.

Friends, family, and neighbours depend on ultrasounds. Thanks to the generosity of McDougall Energy, Imperial Oil, Brunswick House First Nation, and the many people who have responded to the 2015 Christmas Appeal we should have a replacement fully paid for by the end of next year.

For more information on ultrasounds, their importance for diagnosis and pregnancies, or to donate go to www.sschs.ca or contact us directly by calling 705-864-3053.

About the Donors

McDougall Energy Inc. ("McDougall Energy") is a Canadian, privately owned, family business which has been serving energy customers for over 70 years. McDougall Energy is a marketer and distributor of heating oil, propane, gasoline, diesel fuel and commercial lubricants, as well as an Esso retailer. McDougall Energy is proud to be named one of Canada's Best Managed Companies four years in a row. Now in its third generation of ownership, the energy company serves communities throughout Ontario and British Columbia. The company is headquartered in Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. To learn more about McDougall Energy, visit www.mcdougallcorp.com.

Brunswick House First Nation is situated on Highway 101 East, approximately 5 kms from the town of Chapleau, Ontario. We are a member of the Nishnabe-Aski Nation and our membership has a population of 763 members with approximately 121 living on-reserve and 642 off-reserve. We are also affiliated with the Wabun Tribal Council. To learn more about Brunswick House First Nation, visit www.brunswickhousefirstnation.com.