‘Elsie’s NICU Fundraiser’ in support of Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital’s (OSMH) Neonatal Intensive Care (NICU) and Pediatric Units will take place on Aug. 10 at the Bracebridge Fairgrounds.
Anna Lazarus-Dunn says they received incredible care when their daughter Elsie was born eight weeks prematurely in August of 2024.
Lazarus- Dunn says because of the exceptional care the hospital provided her family and Elsie, OSMH staff have a special place in their hearts.
“I’m always asking them what do you need, what can I replenish,” said Dunn. “[…] We wanted to give back to them for how they’ve treated our family, and both of our children – and also honor the fact that Elsie is turning one.”
Dunn said turning one is a huge milestone especially in a premature baby’s life since the first year they face many challenges.
She said the hospital staff told her they are hoping to upgrade their incubators, as their current ones are over 20 years old.
Originally, she had thought of a small fundraiser, just a simple breakfast, but day by day it has grown. They’ve added a variety of local vendors, food options, live entertainment, activities for children, a car show and a silent auction.
“It’s been amazing to see how the community has come together and how everybody is willing to participate.” Said Dunn.
The day will start at 9 a.m. with a pancake breakfast, complete with pancakes, sausages and maple syrup from a local vendor.
At 10 a.m. they will hear speeches from local families who shared similar experiences, and a staff member from the hospital who will share more about the NICU and Pediatrics units.
At 11a.m., live entertainment will begin, and Dunn says every hour, all the way through to 5 p.m., a different local band will perform.
For the kids, there will be lots of inflatables such as whack-a-mole, axe throwing, basketball and more.
There will also be a car show, and a silent auction, which has received donations from various businesses from Orillia, Gravenhurst, Bracebridge and Huntsville.
Besides donating all proceeds to the hospital, Dunn said they also plan to donate clothes and toys along with a welcome basket for moms who are starting their NICU journey.
“It can be a very very very scary journey,” she said. “I was thinking it would be good to include some stories from families around us about how their babies are doing now, and maybe a gas card and some food gift certificates – because you always forget to eat when you’re there. Just some little things so that they feel less alone.”
Dunn says they are still looking to add more local vendors because she believes it’s important to highlight small businesses within our community along with this fundraiser.
She says they are also looking for more sponsors for the fundraiser, to help with costs for the breakfast and venue, adding that it is a great way to promote your business as well since they will have some banners up.
Dunn says they currently have some volunteers but would love to have more help with setting up and taking down and any extra help during the event. She says this opportunity may be especially great for students who are looking to receive volunteer hours.
She shares they are accepting monetary donations, and if you are unable to attend – purchasing a ticket will still help.
To purchase tickets, click HERE.
To learn how you can participate as a vendor, sponsor or volunteer e-mail Anna at theelmabox@gmail.com
