PCHS Foundation planning ‘Operation’ tournament

Remember playing the board game “Operation” as a youngster? This timeless board game has spanned the generations as players try to “operate” on Cavity Sam’s ailments.

With the COVID-19 pandemic, the Perkins County Health Services Foundation made the tough decision to call off this year’s Gala, which represents their main fund-raising effort for the year. 

The objective of the foundation’s efforts this year is to raise money to fund new equipment for the operating rooms.

So in keeping with the operating room theme, Foundation Director Jackie Urdahl came up with the unique idea to hold an “Operation” tournament as this year’s fundraising event.

 But instead of using the small game board version, Urdahl is bringing in a life-size version of the game for the tournament.  

To add to the reality, the two-person surgical teams will wear gowns, gloves and masks (which also makes the event Covid-friendly). 

Members of the PCHS medical staff will be on hand to offer teams their assistance and guidance. 

The tournament will begin with qualifying rounds in mid-November with the final four teams competing for the championship on Dec. 5.

Qualifying rounds will be held at Arnold Insurance with the semis and finals held at the fairgrounds dance hall. 

The entry fee for the two-person teams will be $200 and various levels of sponsorship will be offered as well. 

People can begin registering for the tournament this week by going to the foundation’s website:
pchsfoundation.org or calling the foundation office at 308-352-7285.

Urdahl said spreading out the tournament over eight qualifying rounds helps keep attendance numbers lower to keep the event Covid-friendly.

She said this will be a fun event for everyone while serving a crucial need to raise money for hospital needs.