Bean Match Campaign Results in $3 Million for LifeFlight Aircraft
BEAN MATCH CAMPAIGN RESULTS IN $3 MILLION FOR LIFEFLIGHT
Release Date: 3/17/2020 12:00:00 AM
LifeFlight of Maine is pleased to announce that the 2019 Linda and Diana Bean fundraising challenge match was an unqualified success, reaching its $1.5 million goal much earlier than expected, thanks to an outpouring of gifts made by hundreds of donors – some loyal friends who have supported us for years, but many more who were inspired to give for the first time.
A major component of the match campaign was Linda’s summer island fundraiser. The event brought hospital leaders and LifeFlight leaders together with new donors to raise more than $1 million right “at the microphone” all of which was matched by the Bean sisters, and which brought the campaign total to $3 million. More than half of the total raised will support LifeFlight’s efforts to train the state’s critical care workforce in new treatments, technology and rapid rescue procedures.
These training programs are being conducted with emergency service staff across Maine’s network of hospitals. For example, in December Portland’s Maine Medical Center training exercise for dual aircraft was executed by staff without a hitch, receiving mock patients from two helicopters that landed atop the new Coulombe Family Tower. Paul Coulombe, Linda Bean and Diana Bean, all native Mainers and longtime supporters of LifeFlight, expanded their healthcare-targeted philanthropy in 2019 with multi-million dollar gifts to support Maine Medical Center’s major expansion project which also includes “The Sisters” rooftop landing pads.
“Collaboration between Maine’s hospitals and LifeFlight is more important than ever,” explains Linda. “Small community hospitals are struggling and some have closed. Time is of the essence to provide emergency support and air transport to our remaining hospital facilities. Last year alone, LifeFlight cared for more than 2,200 critically ill and injured patients. Won’t you make your 2020 gift to LifeFlight today?”
Linda is passionate about LifeFlight and Maine’s larger healthcare system, reminding everyone, “You never know when it could be you who needs it. Or a loved one or a trusting visitor. LifeFlight is on the slopes, on islands and coastal peninsulas, in the woods, over highways and byways — everywhere people are having a critical health emergency! I urge others to host a fundraiser at home, camp or business; to inspire others to give if you can offer to match some donations; or to send your own check today to LifeFlight Foundation, PO Box 899, Camden ME 04841.”
On behalf of all the patients whose lives have been touched by Maine’s critical emergency healthcare system, we are deeply grateful for each and every one of your generous gifts. Make a gift or pledge today!
