For more than two decades, Marnie and Ted Williamson have believed in the importance of accessible, local healthcare. Long before they made Barry’s Bay their home, the former owners of Barry’s Bay V&S Stedmans knew that proximity to a hospital would be essential. Above: Marnie Williamson spent seven weeks recovering at St. Francis Memorial Hospital in 2022. (Photo submitted)
“The number one item on our list was to have some kind of healthcare available,” Marnie said, recalling the decision to purchase the Barry’s Bay store after years of operating a Stedmans location in Bracebridge.
Their move marked the beginning of over 20 years of committed support for St. Francis Memorial Hospital and its Foundation. What they didn’t know at the time was just how important the hospital would become to them personally.
A life-changing accident
In 2022, Marnie was driving home through Algonquin Park following her annual Mother’s Day visit with her sisters. The tradition includes a stop at their parents’ gravesite in Stayner, Ontario – a meaningful ritual she looks forward to each spring. But on the drive home that year, her vehicle veered off the roadway and struck a rock cut.
Emergency crews rushed her to St. Francis Memorial Hospital, where she was subsequently airlifted to the Ottawa Civic Hospital. She was treated for several injuries and remained in Ottawa for a week.
When staff told her that a bed was available in the Barry’s Bay medical unit, she was relieved – not just for herself, but for her husband.
“Ted came to Ottawa every single day,” she said. “He would leave the store, drive to Ottawa, stay for an hour, then drive all the way home. Then he’d do it again the next day.”
The daily trips and the strain of running their business were taking a toll. Coming home to St. Francis Memorial Hospital made all the difference.
“When they said we could come back home, he visited me three times a day instead of one,” she laughed.
Healing in her own community
Marnie spent nearly seven weeks recovering at St. Francis Memorial Hospital – and the experience left a deep impression.
“Everyone was fantastic, and I can’t say enough good things about my stay,” Marnie recalled. “Not that I would want to do it again, but it was a great experience to know that staff really do care. They’re not just there to punch the clock. They are there to help you and make sure that you get better as fast as possible.”
Even small gestures mattered. She remembers sending a thank-you note to the dietary staff after enjoying a particular salad. The next day, the recipe appeared on her tray.
The attentive care from nurses and physicians helped her progress so quickly that she was discharged earlier than anticipated.
“I think that’s why I was able to get home earlier than they thought – because they really looked after me.”
Supporting the care that supports us
As a rural region, our community is fortunate to have access to a 20-bed medical unit where patients can recover close to home. But without government funding for equipment, the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation must raise the funds needed to maintain high-quality care for local families.
This year, the medical unit requires several important pieces of equipment, including new patient beds, a wound healing machine, patient ceiling lifts, and improvements to medication dispensing systems – equipment that supports comfort, safety, and healing.
Registered Nurse Maureen Bloskie sees every day how essential these tools are.
“As a nurse, I see how much a comfortable and safe environment helps patients recover. When someone is unwell, having the right equipment – like proper beds, lifts, or mobility aids – makes a real difference in how they feel and how quickly they recover,” Maureen said. “Being able to receive that care close to home means so much to our patients and their families. It eases stress, keeps loved ones nearby, and helps people feel more supported during a difficult time. With the right tools, we can continue to provide the kind of care our community deserves.”
Having experienced that care firsthand, Marnie later donated funds to purchase a new specialized wheelchair and walker for the medical unit. She hopes her story encourages others to support the Tree of Lights Campaign in whatever way they can.
“Every little bit adds up,” she said.
Donations can be made online at www.sfvhfoundation.com, in person at the St. Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation located at 7 St. Francis Memorial Drive or by calling 613-756-3045 ext. 217.
A Christmas tradition of caring
As the holiday season begins, the Foundation extends heartfelt thanks to the donors whose generosity ensures that exceptional care can remain close to home – today and for generations to come.
In the coming weeks, the Foundation will also take part in two community traditions that shine a light on the importance of local healthcare.
Giving Tuesday
On Tuesday, December 2 the organization will participate in Giving Tuesday, where several community service clubs and individuals have stepped forward as Match It sponsors. Every dollar raised that day will be matched up to $15,000, thanks to the support of the Palmer Rapids and Area Lions Club, the Hospital Auxiliary, Barry’s Bay Royal Canadian Legion, an Anonymous donor, Killaloe Lions Club, the Quadeville and Area District Service Club, and the Eganville Rotary Club. Funds raised through the initiative will support this year’s Tree of Lights Campaign.
Tree of Lights ceremony
Then on Friday, December 5 at 6:30 pm, residents are invited to gather for the annual Tree of Lights at the Railway Station Park in Barry’s Bay. Angels representing local elementary schools will help illuminate the tree, which shines in honour of loved ones who are no longer with us this holiday season.
The evening will also feature a visit from Santa and his mini-petting zoo, music by the Station Keepers Choir and refreshments. The event is free and open to all members of the community.
Hudder,C., St.Francis Valley Healthcare Foundation(2025,Nov.25) Give the Gift of Healing this Holiday – Local woman shares recovery journey at St. Francis Memorial Hospital [media release]