May 30, 2002

Illini Auxiliary Helps Fund New Mammography Equipment

During their annual meeting on Tuesday, the Illini Hospital Auxiliary presented a check in the amount of $74,000 to the hospital to underwrite the cost of a new mammography system for Illini's Mammography Imaging Center. The new system provides more detailed images and allows for the imaging of more breast tissue. An additional $1000 from memorials in honor of Auxiliary member Myrna VanSpeybroeck will go towards the purchase of stained glass windows for the hospital's chapel.

Annual scholarship winners were also recognized at the annual meeting: Kevin Tuazon, Sara Williams and Natalie Martens will each receive $300 to further their education in medical fields. Natalie Martens was also the recipient of the $100 Betty and John Neubauer Memorial Scholarship.

Throughout the Auxiliary's history, the group has donated more than $967,000 to the hospital for a wide variety of programs, services and equipment. Formed in 1967 before the hospital was completed, the Auxiliary has been making annual donations since 1969. In addition to proceeds from the Gift Shop located within the hospital, the Auxiliary conducted several fundraisers throughout the year.

For more information about the Illini Hospital Auxiliary or to become a member call Gerry Hutchinson in the Volunteer Services office at 309-792-4218.