Stollery Children's Hospital - Fish Tank Campaign

[DiverDude]

This is a great idea; a tank like that would be relaxing and keep their attention for quite some time.

As expensive and challenging as building and stocking a tank like this is, it's really the easy and inexpensive part. Operating and maintaining it is the real kicker. The hospital will need long term commitment from someone they can finger for all aspect of the tanks' care. Electrical, water, salt, food, etc. all need to be accounted for as well.

From the hospital's perspective, this could only be considered if all those factors were suitable accounted for -and that's going to be difficult.

I hope this pans out but don't be discouraged if it doesn't. Bureaucracy is almost as powerful as the ocean itself.

[howdy20012002]

I really like the idea as we all know how amazing and relaxing tanks can be.
however, I don't know how practical it will be.
I am not trying to speak for the other stores in the city, but that is a huge investment in time and money for a fishstore to commit to if you are looking at it as a donation.
that is a lot of man hours to maintain a 600 gallon tank.
I would look at supporting it with some free fish or corals..but wouldn't consider taking this on personally as a store sponsor.
once again, a great idea if it comes to reality.
but a huge commitment on all sides.

[Leah]

Originally Posted by DiverDude

This is a great idea; a tank like that would be relaxing and keep their attention for quite some time.

As expensive and challenging as building and stocking a tank like this is, it's really the easy and inexpensive part. Operating and maintaining it is the real kicker. The hospital will need long term commitment from someone they can finger for all aspect of the tanks' care. Electrical, water, salt, food, etc. all need to be accounted for as well.

From the hospital's perspective, this could only be considered if all those factors were suitable accounted for -and that's going to be difficult.

I hope this pans out but don't be discouraged if it doesn't. Bureaucracy is almost as powerful as the ocean itself.

Thinking the same here. As wonderful of an idea as I think it is... it is just not practical and as some one stated the money could be used for new/or better equipment.

I wish you all the best with this.

[intarsiabox]

Maybe an RSM250 would be a more practical sell to the Stollery? All in one, easier to maintain, smaller footprint,etc

[Aquattro]

As someone that spends way too much time in the Pediatric ICU, I know that 50k worth of equipment is a much greater donation than a reef tank. That equipment kept my daughter alive last month, which is much more important that spending it on a tank. Yes, a tank is nice and kids like looking at it for a few minutes, but the suggested RSM might be a better alternative. Just my opinion as a parent of a kid that spends too many days in the hospital.

[fishoholic]

Originally Posted by Aquattro

As someone that spends way too much time in the Pediatric ICU, I know that 50k worth of equipment is a much greater donation than a reef tank. That equipment kept my daughter alive last month, which is much more important that spending it on a tank. Yes, a tank is nice and kids like looking at it for a few minutes, but the suggested RSM might be a better alternative. Just my opinion as a parent of a kid that spends too many days in the hospital.

+1 totally agree with you Brad. Also, while its a nice thought, the money would be way better spent on equipment.

FYI I've seen really cool 30g reef fish tanks, that I'm sure the children would find interesting to look at.