Following the breakdown of the lithotripter at St. Paul’s Hospital several months ago, patients suffering from kidney stones wanting a non-invasive treatment were forced to seek help out of province.

Now, thanks to a $1.4 million donation from Irene Dubé and her late husband Les, who recently passed away at the age of 91, the hospital was able to purchase a new one.

St. Paul’s Hospital Executive Director Tracy Muggli says the new equipment will be able to serve five to six people per day.

“That tells you that a lot of people will benefit over the years by having this less invasive procedure,” Muggli explains.

The equipment works by blasting the kidney stones and allowing them to dispel naturally. This is a less invasive treatment for patients than the traditional surgical option.

“This will really support people to have a faster recovery, less pain, less infection.”

Muggli says this new equipment will draw patients from around the province, as this lithotripter is the only one in Saskatchewan.

“This is also very important to people who cannot travel out of province, who don’t have the financial resources to be able to do that. So, it’s equity building. It’s an opportunity for all people to access a service they might not be able to otherwise.”

To commemorate the years of support and donations the Dubé’s gave to the hospital, a mural and plaque were put up outside what is now dubbed the Les and Irene Dubé Lithotripsy Suite.