Record donation pumps up support for interim cardiac catheterization lab

The Red Deer Regional Health Foundation has been honoured with a historic $10 million donation that will help bring life-saving cardiac care to Red Deer Regional Hospital Centre (RDRHC).

This extraordinary gift, generously contributed by Joan Donald, John and Heather Donald, and Peter and Kathy Lacey, is the largest donation in the foundation’s history and will play a critical role in establishing the previously announced interim cardiac catheterization lab at the hospital.

“We are incredibly grateful for the generosity of the Donald and Lacey families, whose support is bringing life-saving cardiac care closer to home for the benefit of all central Albertans,” says Foundation CEO Manon Therriault. “Together with all our health care partners, their commitment to advancing health care will make a lasting impact on countless lives for years to come.”

Construction on the interim cardiac catheterization lab - which will be located in the space currently home to the physician’s lounge - is scheduled to begin this fall. With design plans being finalized, the lab is expected to be operational in early 2027.

“With the heartwarming generosity of donors like the Donald and Lacey families, and the ongoing support of the Foundation, we will be able to enhance cardiac care for all those who rely on RDRHC,” says Janice Stewart, Chief Zone Officer for the AHS Central Zone. “Developing this lab will allow us to treat more cardiac patients closer to home and support them in their recovery.

"Enhancing our cardiac services will also support our efforts to recruit and retain the talented professionals needed to care for our region’s patients.”

The Red Deer Regional Health Foundation has committed to funding the capital cost of the project, which is expected to be about $22 million.