MRHA celebrates year of milestones during 2025 AGM
Special to WC Online
ALMONTE – The Mississippi River Health Alliance (MRHA) marked a transformative year at its 2025 annual general meeting, held on June 24 at the Almonte General Hospital (AGH).
“The event brought together staff, medical staff, volunteers, board directors, and community members from across the region to reflect on a year of progress, resilience and meaningful care,” MRHA communications lead Caitlin O’Hara released in a statement today (June 25).
John Jordan, MPP for Lanark–Frontenac–Kingston, joined the evening as guest speaker, offering his thanks to healthcare workers and emphasizing the importance of continued investment in rural health systems.
“This was a year of forward movement, not just marked by ribbon cuttings, but by the quieter, deliberate work of building something lasting,” MRHA President and CEO Brad Harrington said. “Together, we’ve enhanced access, strengthened care, and demonstrated what’s possible when communities come together.”
Speeches throughout the evening celebrated major 2024–25 highlights across MRHA, including the opening of the new Thomas Cavanagh Emergency Department at Carleton Place and District Memorial Hospital (CPDMH) and the installation of a donor-funded CT scanner at the AGH. The evening also recognized long-serving staff and volunteers, welcomed new team members, and honoured outgoing Allied Boards directors Robert Probert and Greg Smith for their dedication and service.
AGH chief of staff Dr. Melanie Fortune and CPDMH Chief of Staff Dr. Allyson Champagne spoke to the strength of collaboration between the two hospitals, and the exceptional work being done across all teams.
Allied Boards chair Lyman Gardiner, who was also recognized for completing his two-year term, shared his optimism for MRHA’s future, noting that the upcoming strategic plan will guide the next phase of organizational growth and innovation.
“Our alliance is strong because it’s rooted in people,” Harrington said. “Across every team and every site, we see resilience, compassion, and a shared commitment to delivering the very best care close to home.”
To learn more about MRHA’s accomplishments, please read the 2025 Report to Our Community, or visit www.MRHA.ca.
