(Supplied/Dave Brunner)

By Josh Hall | @Vancan19

on heels of huge announcement

‘Time is Life’ champions hold successful cath lab fundraiser

Oct 23, 2024 | 4:24 PM

An event on Oct. 18 to raise money for cardiac catheterization services in Red Deer was a resounding success, organizers say.

The Time is Life event was held only an hour after the Red Deer Regional Health Foundation, as well as Alberta Health Services, announced a fast-tracked temporary cath lab that will open in Red Deer in about two years.

That’s about five years ahead of when two permanent cath labs will open as part of the Red Deer Regional Hospital redevelopment project.

The financial specifics of the temporary lab have not yet been announced, but the provincial government will be pitching in, and some community funds will need to be raised through the foundation. The fundraiser raised at least $30,000, said organizers.

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Friday’s festivities included a Name That Tune game show element, pitting local cardiologists against one another, plus live music.

It also featured a powerful video from Harley Hay Studios:

“This event was a testament to the power of community,” said Vanessa Higgins-Nogareda, co-producer of Time is Life.

“Thanks to the tireless efforts of central Albertans, we are now on the path to securing the health care services we so desperately need. Friday was not just celebrating music and fun — we celebrated our collective impact in making real change for Red Deer.”

Higgins-Nogareda and husband, Dr. Gustavo Nogareda, who is a local cardiologist, spoke to rdnewsNOW earlier this month about the prospect of eventually having cath lab services here, and how many lives it could save.

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READ MORE: Fundraiser Oct. 18 to benefit Red Deer’s cardiac catheterization goals

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It’s estimated the temporary lab will save 160 lives.

“Establishing a cath lab in central Alberta will be a game-changer for cardiac care, offering life-saving interventions closer to home,” says Dr. Nogareda in a new statement. “It means faster treatment for heart attack victims and a better chance at survival. This facility is not just an investment in health care, but an investment in the future of our community.”

The event was made possible by support from title sponsors, the Healthy Heart Institute, the Donald Family, and Bo’s Bar & Stage.