We have been working to stop the closures of Community Hospitals, Urgent Care Centre’s and Emergency Rooms, for over 23 years.

Our Douglas Memorial Hospital refused to join the Amalgamation of Ontario Hospitals. The government took us to court where the takeover began! The court assigned the hostile takeover to representatives who, then bought it for $1.00.

This hospital was built for the people, by the people of Fort Erie, and was fully paid for, having enough foresight to have a foundation with funds that could only be used for Fort Erie. The monies to keep us debt free were given freely by public gifts, businesses, local companies, Hospital Auxiliary events, and Service Clubs.

Community hospitals in small towns were a place that we could go to for our medical needs. Surgeries were performed, babies were born, illnesses were treated, and people could die with family and friends with them, so they were not alone.

Meals were prepared and served. Laundry was done on site. Now they are prepared miles away and trucked in. Loss of many jobs.

Most of all we had friends dealing with us, our family doctor could treat us, making a big difference in getting well.