Auxiliary Giving Keeps Local Lifesaving Care Ready at McKenzie Health System

The McKenzie Auxiliary has made another impactful contribution to community care by funding the purchase of a blood storage refrigerator for the McKenzie Health System Laboratory Services Department.

The lab’s previous refrigerator had reached the end of its lifespan and required replacement to maintain proper storage of blood products relied upon for emergency care, surgeries, outpatient lab services, and critical medical treatment for local patients.

Thanks to the Auxiliary’s donation, McKenzie Health System was able to purchase and install a new, regulated blood storage refrigerator, ensuring the lab can continue supporting safe, temperature-controlled storage for blood collection and patient-care needs across the hospital campus.

“This is another example of the level of support this wonderful group is providing with community care in mind,” said Billi Jo Hennika, Chief Operating Officer at McKenzie Health System. “The Auxiliary saw an essential need in our laboratory and made sure it was met. Their generosity helps keep lifesaving resources and readiness right here for the families we serve.”

The Auxiliary’s fundraising and generosity continues a proud volunteer legacy—supporting local readiness and care at McKenzie Health System.

For more information about volunteering, contact Nina Barnett, MHS Auxiliary Liaison, at 810-648-6127 or nbarnett@mckenziehealth.org. For membership information, contact Lynn Fuller, MHS Auxiliary Membership Chair, at 810-648-6150 ext. 366 or lfuller@mckenziehealth.org.

Photo (l to r): Kelsey Loding*, Margaret Jensen, Phyllis Chambers, Emma Navarro*, McKenzie Director of Laboratory Services Jessica Allen**, Merrily Loding, Shari Phipps, Lynn Fuller, Carol Mitchell, and Mary Sweet.
*Auxiliary Co-Presidents **Not an Auxiliary member