Press Release
November 12, 2024

 
Contact:
Barbara Laughon
(760) 873-5811 ext. 3415 [email protected]

Artful fundraiser helps NIH Foundation
equip CAREshuttle with AED

Thanks to community generosity, the Northern Inyo Hospital Foundation (NIHF) successfully raised funds to equip the newest CAREshuttle with a life-saving Automated External Defibrillator (AED). The community-centered fundraiser, featuring a drawing for a watercolor painting by the late local artist Jeffrey Scott, made this achievement possible.

An AED is a portable medical device designed to deliver a controlled electric shock to someone experiencing sudden cardiac arrest. By restoring a normal heartbeat, AEDs play a crucial role in emergencies, especially in rural areas like ours where quick access to medical facilities may be limited. Having an AED on the CAREshuttle means patients in transit can receive immediate, life-saving intervention if needed.

Cinthya Salazar, an employee at Northern Inyo Healthcare District (NIHD), won the prized artwork—a vibrant portrayal of the Dusy Basin—which drew widespread interest from art lovers and community members alike.

NIHF Chair Carole Wade praised the community for rallying behind this initiative. “The addition of an AED to the CAREshuttle is a powerful example of how our community can make a difference in local healthcare,” Wade said. “This outcome is only possible through the generosity of our friends, neighbors, and supporters who believe in our mission. The Foundation’s Board of Directors appreciates the support shown to this effort.”

Alison Murray, NIHD’s Chief Business Development Officer, expressed deep appreciation for a pivotal donation from Mollie Scott, the artist’s wife, which helped the fundraiser reach its goal. “Mollie’s gift reflects the spirit of giving that drives our work,” Murray said. “This community commitment strengthens our healthcare resources and makes life-saving equipment accessible for all.”

Murray also thanked Aaron and Marianne Schat of Whiskey Creek for generously allowing the Foundation to display the artwork in their restaurant, giving community members a convenient opportunity to view the piece up close.

With the holiday season around the corner, NIHF encourages community members to support local healthcare through tax-deductible contributions. Donations — whether big or small — fund critical equipment, essential patient programs, and expand access to healthcare services for residents and visitors of the Eastern Sierra. Supporters can also look forward to additional fundraisers in the coming months.

To learn more about how to give or get involved in upcoming fundraisers, please visit nih.org/foundation or contact Alison Murray at (760) 873-2009.

Caption:

Congratulations to Cinthya Salazar, left, one of NIHD’s Authorization and Referral specialists, who won the beautiful Jeffrey Scott watercolor painting. Shown with Cinthya are Foundation Chair Carole Wade, Chief Business Development and Human Resources Officer Alison Murray, and Foundation Board Member Cheryl Underhill. Photo by Barbara Laughon/Northern Inyo Healthcare District.

About Northern Inyo Healthcare District: Founded in 1946, Northern Inyo Healthcare District features a 25-bed critical access hospital, a 24-hour emergency department, a primary care rural health clinic, a diagnostic imaging center, and a rehabilitation service for physical, occupational, and speech-language therapy. We also offer clinics specializing in orthopedics, cardiology, urology, women’s health, pediatrics and allergies, general surgery, colorectal surgery, and breast cancer surgery. Continually striving to improve the health outcomes for those who rely on us for care, NIHD aims to improve our communities, one life at a time. One team, one goal, your health.