RUMFORD — A $2,500 gift from the Oakdale Country Club Women’s Golf Association to benefit Lariviere Oncology patients launched Rumford Hospital’s 2011 Annual Appeal. Following a late October brochure and letter mailing, gifts have been arriving – 28 gifts the first day.

“I think it spurred donors on when we were able to list the items that are being purchased with last year’s annual appeal funds,” said Barbara Belanger, Development Committee chairwoman. “It’s an impressive list of equipment with new stretchers, a new baby warmer, pharmacy refrigeration units, specialty clinic EKG unit, a new crib for the medical/surgical unit and ceiling-mounted patient lifts.”

People who did not receive an annual appeal mailing may request one by calling Rumford Hospital community relations at 369-1143 or may send gifts to the community relations office at the hospital, 420 Franklin St., Rumford 04276.