Opinion

'Community' truly part of local hospital

Monday, October 15, 2001

Back in 1973 and 1974 -- when McCook was building a new hospital -- there was a debate about what the medical facility should be called.

Should it be "Southwest General" or should it be "Community Hospital"?

While Southwest General was a fancier title, Community Hospital was selected as the name.

History has proven it was the right choice.

Throughout its existence, Community Hospital has been supported by the generosity of citizens, who -- time after time -- have responded to the hospital's need for equipment and innovative programs.

Improvements have continued non-stop over the past quarter of a century, including the addition, just this month, of 32 new hospital beds.

It is the first total replacement of beds in 26 years. Of special note is the total care bed which was acquired for the Hospice Suite. The bed and furnishings, valued at around $18,000, contain features which provide patients with special care.

"Comfort and quality of life are our goals and we thank all who have made this purchase possible," said Pam Stuczynski, Community HealthCare director of Home Health and Hospice.

Pam's comments were prompted by the total care Hospice bed, but they could have referred to all the gifts which community members make to the hospital.

This is not a city hospital, or a county hospital, ora state hospital. It is a Community Hospital, supported by the patients who use it and the public who supports it with their gifts.

The generous supporters of hospital projects deserve special thanks.

Whether it is through the hospital's annual campaign, or through special projects such as the Evening with Hospice, the Gift Box or the John Mullen Pro-Am Health & Heritage Classic, community members and former McCookites have responded time after time to the hospital's need for improvements.

It truly is a Community Hospital ... and all who give support share the praise and credit for that fact.

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