Early last December, Petra McElrea invited some people over to her house to see her latest charming, hand-knitted dolls and illustrated companion book, titled, “Very Special Christmas Guests at the Magic Dollhouse”. The soft dolls, loaded with personality, measure 30-35 cm tall and include knitted shoes, hats and accessories. Photographs of the dolls comprise the story book illustrations which look like water colours. 

Petra exclaimed, “they sold like hotcakes!”

As a result, she donated the proceeds of $750 to the KDH Foundation CT Scanner Crossroads Campaign.

Petra described herself and her husband Bill, as “old pros in helping the community”. They worked with their late, dear friend, Harry Pratt (past Chair of the KDH Foundation Board) on many hospital fundraisers such as dinner dances. “Such fun!” she recalled happily. To honour Pratt’s memory Petra and Bill also wrote a delightful book, appropriately titled, “Harry the Christmas Elf”.

“We like to give back. Kemptville is our home. We moved here 43 years ago and have made great friends. We love it here.”

When asked why she thinks the CT Scanner is important to Kemptville, Petra said, “having it here will mean when you need a scan, there will be no big trip to Ottawa. That means a lot to us, especially now when my husband is in his eighties.”

Petra emphasized, “We really need the CT Scanner! It will be amazing to have it here in Kemptville.”  She concluded, “you can always count on Kemptville!”

Joanne Mavis, Foundation Executive Director, said, “it is just wonderful to see the community’s enthusiasm to support the CT Scanner Campaign!  We sincerely appreciate Petra’s creativity and her donation to bring the CT Scanner to Kemptville. It warms the heart!”

For more information, stories and events about the Crossroads CT Scanner $2.2 Million Campaign, including how you can donate, see: The Crossroads Campaign