Members of the community received some long awaited good news from the Province on Wednesday, September 14th.

After years of lobbying by the Airdrie Health Foundation, it was announced that the Airdrie Community Health Center will be open 24/7 by early 2017.

“We promised stability in the system and to listen to regional voices, and that’s what we’re doing. Airdrie is only the most recent example of how getting out of the boardroom and into the community gets us real results that work for patients.” Sarah Hoffman, Minister of Health.

The Government and the City of Airdrie have been working to bring improved health care for nearly 6 years.

Although it is in a step in the right direction, many residents feel that the city needs a more comprehensive approach.

This sentiment runs true for Co-Founder of the Airdrie Health Foundation Michelle Bates, who knows all too well the benefits of increased health care, after her 5-year-old son Lane passed away in 2009. Due to the lack of a 24-hour emergency medical care in Airdrie, it was impossible for Michelle and her husband to access the necessary medical assistance to save their son.  

"Decisions we made the night of October 26th, 2009, were made largely, due to the lack of 24-hour health services here in Airdrie and over crowded hospitals in Calgary," said Bates, "This announcement is a welcomed relief, and I hope no other family has to suffer like we have."