Stock photo of a Thulium laser being used during surgery courtesy of VJH Foundation

By Liam Verster

Surgery Equipment Fundraiser

Light-A-Bulb campaign raised over $1M for medical equipment

Jan 21, 2026 | 6:00 AM

The latest Light A Bulb campaign was a massive success.

Vernon Jubilee Hospital Foundation said over $1-million was raised through the 39th edition of the annual initiative.

This included $600,000 raised on just GivingTuesday, as well as a $200,000 matching gift from long-time supporter Anita Finlay.

“We’re always so touched by how our community rallies each holiday season to ensure we all have access to exceptional care,” Kate McBrearty, executive director of VJH Foundation, said.

“Because of this incredible support, we can equip our surgical teams with the priority tools they identified as essential to their work.”

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The funds raised through the Light-A-Bulb campaign will be used to replace three pieces of surgical equipment at VJH.

• A Thulium laser used to break up stones in the body, including kidney stones (Urology Department)
• A CO2 laser that enables precise, minimally invasive removal of tumors, polyps and other growths in the throat, larynx and nose (Ear, Nose and Throat Department)
• An ENT microscope used for complex procedures involving the delicate structures of the ear, nose and throat (Ear, Nose and Throat Department)

VJH surgical teams used these three items to perform over 2,600 operations in 2025, with the Foundation stating the lasers and microscopes contribute to less invasive surgeries, faster recovery times, and better patient outcomes.

“We use this specialized equipment to perform advanced ear surgeries for the whole region – from Prince George to Penticton and from Lillooet to Cranbrook,” Dr. Jacek Szudek, head of surgery at Vernon Jubilee Hospital, said.

“We use the ENT microscope and the CO2 laser to put the prosthetic joint into the ear. Just like the Thulium laser used for urology procedures, these tools enhance precision, accuracy and patient safety. And without them, people would need to travel to Vancouver for these surgeries.”