February 15, 2010

Elk Rapids Rotary Donation Helps Munson Cardiac Rehab
The service group gives $10,000 for the purchase of three new machines

A donation from the Elk Rapids Rotary Club is making hearts at Munson Cardiac Rehabilitation Services beat stronger thanks to their generosity.

The club donated $10,000 recently to the Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation to be used to purchase replacement cardiac rehabilitation equipment including a new recumbent elliptical machine, upright elliptical machine, and a multi-gym machine.

"This is the latest technology," said Mary McManemy, R.N., coordinator of Cardiac Rehab. "It will definitely enhance patient safety and increase the amount of equipment we have for our patients here." About 150 patients are currently participating the cardiac rehabilitation program.

Rotary Club President-Elect Jerry DeGrazia said the donation was spurred by the need for new equipment and the importance of the program to residents of Grand Traverse and Antrim counties. Some of the Rotary Club's members have gone through cardiac rehabilitation at the facility.

"We have several members of our club who use the facilities here," he said. "The donation came out of our Good Works Committee which donates about $55,000 - $65,000 to various charities each year."

The money was raised through annual fundraisers including a variety show set for May 14 - 15 this year and a chicken barbecue held during Elk Rapids Harbor Days in August.

"The Rotary Club hopes that other clubs will consider benefiting the Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation and the Cardiac Rehab Center," DeGrazia said.

Information on giving opportunities at the Munson Healthcare Regional Foundation is available by calling (231) 935-6482 or toll-free 1-866-927-6482.

Information about the Rotary Club of Elk Rapids is available on their website at www.elkrapidsrotary.com or by calling Angelic Esser at (231) 264-9192.

Contact:  Meghan Daigh
or Dale Killingbeck
Munson Healthcare
Corporate Communications
(231) 935-3394
news@mhc.net