FARMINGTON — Franklin Memorial Hospital Auxiliary presented a gift of $20,000 to hospital President Rebecca Ryder during its annual meeting Wednesday.

The funds will help provide furnishings for the emergency department’s proposed renovation, Auxiliary President Shannon Smith said.

Plans are under way to renovate areas within the emergency department, move patient registration and increase privacy within the department, Gerald Cayer, executive vice president of FMH said. It will probably be a couple months before construction starts, he said Thursday.

The work of the auxiliary is tremendous, he said. They are “people who for decades have been committed to helping the hospital and supporting us in unique ways,” he said.

The Auxiliary also presented the Oncology Department with a welcoming cart for patients. It will include items such as books, hats and blankets, Smith said. Hospital volunteers will maintain the cart.

About 50 members and guests gathered for the meeting, an evening meal and entertainment by the clogging group, Incognito, she said.

A stone locator for the hospital’s Healing Garden was also provided by the Auxiliary. Stones have been rearranged and the book will indicate where each stone has been relocated, she said.

The group is also providing six $800 scholarships for local students entering the medical field. These will soon be announced, she said.

The Auxiliary raises funds throughout the year through operation of the hospital gift shop and a variety of fundraisers.

abryant@sunjournal.com

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