From left, Allan Dean (Foundation); Natalie Romain (Coordinator); Rusenstrom family: Joan and children Heather, Stephen, Michael and Edward; and Nicole Boucher-Larivière (Director of Pontiac Local Service Network). (Photo: CISSSO)
Tashi Farmilo
LOCAL JOURNALISM INITIATIVE
SHAWVILLE – The Pontiac Community Hospital has taken a significant step towards enhancing patient comfort by introducing adjustable beds, a move made in memory of local farmer David Rusenstrom. Rusenstrom, who stood at 6’4”, found the hospital’s standard beds inadequate during his extended stay. In his memory, his family encouraged donations to the Pontiac Community Hospital Foundation (PCHF) to buy an extra-long bed suitable for taller patients.
Rusenstrom’s wife, Joan, reflected on the initiative: “The idea came from my personal experience with my husband, who often struggled with the length of hospital beds during his illness. Through this I realised the need for more suitable beds… Our goal was to make everyone comfortable, regardless of their height.”
Terry Campbell of the Shawville Lions Club recalled: “Dave Rusenstrum spent far too long in a hospital bed during the last inning of his life. His legs were always bent because he couldn’t stretch out. The beds were too short; not something the average patient would have to consider.”
On the anniversary of Rusenstrom’s passing, the hospital celebrated the arrival of an $8,000, longer bed as a result of the combined efforts of the PCHF, Shawville Lions Club and donations in Rusenstrom’s memory.
“The PCHF and hospital board started the initiative, with initial contributions coming from donations in Dave’s name. The Lions Club committed to topping off whatever dollar value was needed to make the purchase of the first bed in Dave’s name a reality,” added Campbell.
The hospital has since committed to replacing all existing beds with adjustable models that can extend as required. To date, 15 new beds have been installed.
Nicole Boucher-Larivière, director of the Pontiac local service network, said the change ensures all patients, regardless of their height, can rest comfortably. “It’s a fitting tribute to Mr. Rusenstrom and a testament to the community’s spirit,” she told the Journal.
Campbell reflected on Rusenstrom’s legacy: “He was incredibly community oriented. His family carries on his legacy in Shawville and Bristol through various community activities. His heritage is in the Pontiac, and his connection to many members of our club crossed virtually every aspect of our daily lives.”