Jóhannes Gunnar Bjarnason, Chair of the Friends of Akureyri Hospital, says it is especially meaningful to support the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology.

“My wife and I had twins who were born extremely prematurely. Our son was stillborn, while our daughter weighed only 680 grams at birth and her chances of survival were very slim. Today, she is a wonderful 19-year-old young woman. I spent an entire month on the ward, probably the only man who has experienced that. There I encountered the greatest compassion I have ever experienced in my life. It is therefore truly special to be involved in supporting the department in this way.”

Ragnheiður Baldursdóttir, Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, says she is deeply grateful for the donation from the Friends of Akureyri Hospital. She describes the new ultrasound machine as outstanding.

“The machine is even better than we dared hope for. It will be extremely valuable for ultrasound examinations, as the demands placed on us continue to increase. Prenatal screening examinations at both 12 and 20 weeks can provide us with valuable information before the baby is born, and the image quality is exceptionally clear. This is particularly beneficial when examining structures such as the fetal brain and heart.”

Five years ago, the Friends of Akureyri Hospital donated another ultrasound machine to the maternity ward, and the department also uses a third machine that was likewise donated by the Friends.

“These machines are still in use and have served us very well. However, this new machine exceeds all expectations. It is remarkable to see how much technological progress can take place in such a short period of time. Because the images are so clear, we can work more efficiently, and the working environment is improved as the settings can be adjusted very easily. Another wonderful feature for expectant parents is that they can scan a QR code during the examination and download the images directly to their phones. We are simply incredibly grateful to the Friends of Akureyri Hospital. I honestly do not know where we would be without them,” Ragnheiður concludes.