Groves hospital part of $6-million health strategy

Wellington Halton Hills MP Michael Chong announced last week the federal government will provide $193,800 to Groves Memorial Community Hospital in Fergus under the Canadian Diabetes Strategy.

The federal initiative is aimed at helping to fund screening, early detection and management of diabetes, as well as the prevention of secondary complications from the disease, including hypertension, heart disease and stroke.

The Groves funding is part of the federal government’s $6-million initiative to prevent and treat diabetes.

“Groves Memorial Community Hospital is an important part of our community, and I am pleased that both our hospital and community will benefit from this federal investment,” said Chong.

“This funding will improve the lives of those with diabetes in our region, and it is just one example of our government’s commitment to Canada’s public health care system.”

Diabetes affects approximately two million Canadians and it is the seventh leading cause of death in Canada.

It can often be prevented or delayed with regular physical activity, healthy eating and by maintaining a healthy weight.  If not managed properly, diabetes can lead to serious complications like heart disease and stroke, blindness, chronic kidney disease, nervous system damage, and amputation.

“Diabetes is increasing in Canada and around the world,” Chong said.

“Our government is partnering with key organizations to help prevent type 2 diabetes, so that we can improve the lives of those in Wellington County who have or who may develop diabetes.”

For more information on diabetes and healthy living, visit www.publichealth.gc.ca.