Community fundraising effort delivers new anesthetic machine to Kindersley hospital

By Kate Winquist

A major piece of medical equipment funded by community support has arrived at the Kindersley and District Health Centre, marking the result of a successful local fundraising effort tied to a high-profile rodeo event.

A new anesthetic machine was delivered April 8, roughly seven months after the inaugural Energy Dodge Dakota Buttar Invitational brought the community together last fall. More than $90,000 was raised through the Professional Bull Riders Canada event, with proceeds directed through the Kindersley Health and Wellness Foundation.

Peter Gebraad, Dakota Buttar, Anika Becker and Lisa Kirtzinger join hospital staff at the Kindersley and District Health Centre as a new anesthetic machine, funded through last fall’s Energy Dodge Dakota Buttar Invitational, arrives at the facility. SUBMITTED

Lisa Kirtzinger, Anika Becker, Dakota Buttar and Peter Gebraad, pose in front of the new anesthetic machine at the Kindersley and District Health Centre, funded through last fall’s Energy Dodge Dakota Buttar Invitational. SUBMITTED

Event organizer Peter Gebraad said the moment the machine was wheeled through hospital hallways reflected months of work and strong local backing.

“It was the culmination of a lot of effort and amazing passion from the community,” he said. “What I’m most proud of is that this event gives back to the very people who support it.”

The fundraiser was led by organizers, the Kinsmen and Kinette Club of Kindersley, sponsors and community donors. Lisa Kirtzinger, president of the club, said the response exceeded expectations.

“They supported this beyond belief,” she said. “It speaks to how important it is to keep our hospital functioning at a high level.”

Hospital officials say the equipment will play a critical role in patient care. Anika Becker, clinical services manager for acute care, called it a significant addition to local services.

“This is huge for our facility and our community,” she said. “It’s vital to the procedures we provide.”

For Kindersley-born bull rider Dakota Buttar, the initiative reflects the support he has received throughout his career.

“It’s pretty special to be able to give back,” he said.

Organizers have already confirmed the event will return Sept. 11 and 12, with new ticket pricing aimed at improving accessibility and continued plans to support local health care priorities.