Since the St. Luke Hospital Foundation Dinky Duck Race began eight years ago, the event has raised more than $40,000 to help purchase equipment for the hospital.

With part of the approximately $7,000 raised by the race this year, the foundation was able to purchase an AccuVein, a handheld instrument that helps medical professionals locate patients’ veins. The laboratory, radiology, nursing, and home care departments recently completed training with the equipment.

“For eight years now Marion and surrounding communities have supported Dinky Ducks in a tremendously generous fashion,” foundation executive director Mike Norris said. “The proceeds have allowed for St. Luke to give back to the community by enhancing not only the equipment, but also the level of care.”