Despite frigid temperatures, community spirit was running high in Campbellford as residents and supporters gathered for the 34th annual Polar Plunge in support of Campbellford Memorial Hospital.
Organized by the hospital auxiliary, the event raised $40,000 for patient care, exceeding its fundraising goal and drawing strong participation from across Trent Hills and surrounding communities.
Safety preparations were well underway before plungers entered the icy water.
“So first we came down early, checked. This all froze over, so we cut the ice,” said Trent Hills Fire Chief Shawn Jamieson.
He shares his advice for those considering making the plunge.
For many participants, the plunge was about more than fundraising. Campbellford resident Deanna Baker said her connection to the hospital is deeply personal.
“I may not be standing here today if it wasn’t for that hospital,” Baker said.
Baker has raised tens of thousands of dollars for the hospital over the years through creative fundraising efforts and says community support continues to inspire her.
A major boost to this year’s total came from Bruce and Elizabeth Thompson, whose generosity included matching pledges up to $10,000 and issuing a challenge for plungers to take a second jump into the water.
That challenge was taken up by Dorset Mitchell, the Trent Hills Thunder Hockey Club, Trent Hills Fire Chief Shawn Jamieson, and Fleming College paramedic students, with their second plunge generating an addition $4,000 for the hospital.
Bruce Thompson, a retired OPP officer, said the hospital has long been a cornerstone of the community.
Organizers thanked volunteers, first responders, service clubs, and donors, saying the event once again showed what can be accomplished when communities come together in support of local health care.
(Written by: Joseph Goden)
