The end of a year is a time to reflect back on the good and the bad, the heartbreak and the triumph, the failures and accomplishments, and the thoughts and emotions experienced over the past 12 months. For the New Estevan Regional Nursing Home Committee, 2017 has been a bit of a rocky road at times.

"I'd have to say that there was a bit of frustration on our part. We want the government to move ahead on the project, and we recognize the messages that we're getting from them, but we did in good faith go out and raise the $8 million, and we want to ensure that they come to the table with their money so we can get things underway," shared Committee Chairman Don Kindopp.

"We also want to assure the public that we're still around, that the New Nursing Home Committee is still active in trying to move this project forward and that we're exercising good stewardship over the money that we've collected towards it so far."

That said, the community has in no way given up on the group, as support in all forms continue to roll in in various shapes and forms. Kindopp noted that the public awareness is paying off.

"I think it's because people feel that there really is a need to replace the current Estevan Regional Nursing Home. The care that our elders get there is second to none, it's not a question of care. It's a matter of the design and safety of a building that was built over 50 years ago. It's not designed to meet the current philosophy for elder care, which is more of a home like environment."

He said that one of the highlights from the year was the response received from every sector of the community.

"From the individuals to the service groups, to local financial institutions and businesses, and to our civic leaders, they all came on board and were 100 percent behind the project. Their contributions and involvement has indicated that."

Looking into the new year, Kindopp expressed that they will have to remain optimistic.

"I think we'll have to take advantage of the situations as they arise. If we weren't optimistic then we would be giving up, but that's not the case. There's always hope that the economy may turn around somewhat, and there's always hope that the government will listen to the citizens here on how important the project is to go ahead."

"It amazes me at the support we've had, and the support that we continue to receive and the high level of awareness about the need for the new facility," he concluded.