Northbrook_medical_09-28

Jeff Green | Jul 16, 2009

Mayor of North Frontenac Ron Maguire and Warden of Lennox and Addington County Gord Schermerhorn present Dr. Tobia with a painting of the Northbrook Medical Centre by local artist Carla Miedema.

On Sunday July 12, close to 300 people gathered in Flinton at the Township Recreational Centre to pay their respects and render thanks to the staff at the Northbrook Medical Centre and to Dr.Tobia and his associates for 25 years of service to the community.

Emceed by Ken Hook, the event felt like a large family affair, filled with food, wine, jokes, and laughter.

Dr. Tobia first introduced his associates and staff, and his dry wit and humour had the audience in stitches from the onset.

He thanked his wife and nurse at the centre, Sue Tobia, Dr. Teresa Brereton, Dr. Peter Tam, Dr. Alan Elliot, Sharon Baker, Vivian Lessand, Inta Newman, Beth Hilts, Ruth Distefano, Brenda Madigan, Amanda Thibault, and Wilda Lemke, plus many others he has worked with over the years.

Sue Tobia paid tribute to all of the friends and folks who have worked and continue to work so hard behind the scenes to keep the centre operational for a quarter of a century.

The Northbrook Medical Centre has applied to become a Family Health Team, and Dr. Tobia said, “The big issue is if we will be successful. If we are, that will be a cause for a real celebration.”

The centre’s application will be submitted on July 19 and Dr. Tobia said he hopes to hear back by October.

Dr. Tobia added, “Becoming a member of the Family Health Team will secure and enhance services for the entire area. The Family Health Team sustains itself and it is not dependent on just one person.”

North Frontenac Mayor Ron Maguire, and Addington Highlands Reeve Henry Hogg also thanked the Centre and its staff and acknowledged their support in the application process.

Well-wishers lined up to congratulate the Tobias on their efforts and service over the years and many are hoping that come October a second celebration will be on the agenda.