CARIBOU, Maine – The Jefferson Cary Foundation has made a generous contribution of nearly $60,000 to purchase 19 state-of-the-art transport chairs for Cary Medical Center. This donation reflects the Foundation’s ongoing commitment to enhancing patient care and investing in the future of local healthcare.
The new transport chairs, which will be distributed across numerous departments throughout the hospital, are designed with both comfort and functionality in mind. Each chair features a solid, durable structure, with attachments for IV poles, oxygen tanks and foot pedals — all aimed at improving the experience for patients and creating ease for hospital staff transporting them.
Chad Johnson, RN, inpatient nurse manager, is familiar with the transport chairs from use at a facility out of state. Johnson was a driving force initiating the request with patient need at the forefront.
“The new transport chairs will allow our staff to provide safer, efficient care from admission to discharge,” Johnson said. “These chairs will allow us to ensure that every individual in our community who enters these doors feels valued and cared for.”
“We are truly grateful for the generous donation that is allowing us to have hospital grade wheelchairs available for our patients,” added Jenn Plant, RN, chief nursing officer. “This gift will provide added safety, support, and efficiency for patients and staff across all clinical departments, ensuring better care and peace of mind throughout our hospital.
Founded in 1993, the Jefferson Cary Foundation is a nonprofit organization created to support health-related projects and equipment for the benefit of all who are served by Cary Medical Center.
“This donation exemplifies our mission,” said Craig Staples, Jefferson Cary Foundation president. “It’s not just about equipment — it’s about supporting patients, staff and our entire community. I know I speak on behalf of the entire board of directors when I say, to be part of a contribution of this size is an honor for the Foundation.”
The Foundation has raised over $1 million to fund major initiatives including the Specialty Clinics and Chan Center, Women’s Imaging Center, The Pines Center for Women’s & Children’s Health and the Jefferson Cary Cancer Center.
In 2024 the Foundation’s Endowment Fund surpassed the $1 million mark, ensuring sustainable support for future projects. This permanent fund safeguards the principal investment, using interest-only income to fund critical needs such as the expansion of services and the acquisition of advanced technology.
“We want our community to know that we could not have done this without them,” said Chelsey Anderson, executive director of the Jefferson Cary Foundation. “This incredible donation was made possible through the generosity and commitment of our donors, whose support empowers us to make a real difference in the lives of those served by Cary Medical Center. Together, we are building something lasting for the future right here at home.”
As healthcare needs continue to grow, community support remains vital. The Jefferson Cary Foundation asks all who are able to, to consider making a gift — large or small — to help ensure that Cary Medical Center continues to deliver exceptional care for generations to come.
To learn more about how you can support the Foundation and make a difference in the lives of patients and families in our region, please visit https://www.carymedicalcenter.org/about-cary/jefferson-cary-foundation/giving/ or call 207-493-4849.
