The Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation has announced the grand prize winner of its Catch the Ace lottery. Paula Fischer of Mackey claimed an impressive $330,646 after catching the elusive Ace of Spades in week 26 of the popular fundraiser.
Fischer’s winning ticket was drawn from the online generator, and her choice of card #9 revealed the Ace of Spades. “I was in total shock!” Fischer shared with Foundation staff. “You always dream of having a big win but never believe it will happen. I’ve been playing off and on since they started Catch the Ace and always thought that even if I didn’t win, I was still supporting a good cause. This certainly was a dream come true. The best $20 I have ever spent; I am so grateful.”
The Foundation’s Executive Director, Roger Martin, expressed pride in the community’s support, which raised an astounding $525,168 for the hospital’s highest priority equipment needs. “We are super excited that everyone who took part in this round of CTA has been able to see how successful only 26 weeks can be, which can only make the next CTA that much more exciting! Every ticket sold helps our hospital, so thank you all! A huge congratulations to Paula for her big win and catching that elusive Ace of Spades!”
Throughout the 26-week lottery, $195,000 in weekly prizes was awarded to 25 winners, alongside Fischer’s grand prize of $330,646.
PRH President and CEO Sabine Mersmann highlighted the impact of the funds raised, stating, “Our Foundation’s most recent edition of Catch the Ace created some real excitement throughout our region in addition to raising an incredible amount of money for our hospital. We can’t express enough how important these funds are to the future of health care in our community, and I am truly grateful to everyone who participated in Catch the Ace and ultimately contributed to our health care facility. The investments we are able to make with these funds will ensure that we can care for patients in our community using the newest technology and most up-to-date equipment.”
The next round of Catch the Ace will be announced in early August. Roger Martin extended his gratitude to all supporters, saying, “Thank you to ALL our supporters, and we will see you when the deck gets shuffled for the next Catch the Ace folks!”
Donations to the Pembroke Regional Hospital Foundation are welcome at any time and can be made by contacting the Foundation Office at (613) 732-2811, extension 7408, or by visiting www.prhfoundation.com.
(Written by: Emma Butler)