Editor,

As president of WhidbeyHealth Foundation, the fundraising charity for WhidbeyHealth, I would like to express our deep appreciation for the generous grant provided by the Island County commissioners.

Their approval of CARES funding for WhidbeyHealth made possible the purchase of critically needed Personal Protective Equipment, or PPE.

These vital lifesaving materials are in great demand and a robust supply is needed during flu season, especially with COVID-19 flaring up on Whidbey.

Our selfless health care workers deserve the highest quality PPE to remain safe and serve our patients on the front lines.

In June, at the height of the pandemic on Whidbey Island, WhidbeyHealth Foundation used funds generously donated by our community to purchase vital equipment and testing devices. A description of these items is available on our webpage at https://whidbeyhealth.org/foundation/foundation-covid-19-response/

This month, WhidbeyHealth Foundation will reach out again to meet the needs of our health care community. As our island medical resource, the WhidbeyHealth system ensures security and quality of life to all residents.

Thanks to WhidbeyHealth, medical care is immediately available across the island to those who are injured or acutely ill. Cardiac, pediatric and adult rehabilitation resources help Whidbey residents recover close to home, while the MAC unit provides on-island chemotherapy treatment.

Our Navy population is cared for more and more by WhidbeyHealth as the Naval facility streamlines patient care. The medical center’s comprehensive pregnancy care and state-of-the-art Family Birthplace give peace of mind to sailors on deployment that their loved ones are being well cared for while they serve our nation.

WhidbeyHealth Foundation exists to support our island health-care system and, more importantly, the health care needs of all Whidbey islanders and visitors.

We greatly appreciate the enthusiastic support of our Island County commissioners and entire community.

Marion Jouas, president

WhidbeyHealth Foundation