Grant Regional | aspire to live well | 65th Anniversary Issue

is published as a community service for the friends and patrons of GRANT REGIONAL HEALTH CENTER, 507 S. Monroe St., Lancaster, WI 53813, telephone 608-723-2143, grantregional.com . Information in ASPIRE TO LIVE WELL comes from a wide range of medical experts. If you have any concerns or questions about specific content that may affectyour health, please contactyour health care provider. Models may be used in photos and illustrations. 2020 © Coffey Communications, Inc. All rights reserved. Dave Smith President/CEO Dawn Bandy Chief Financial Officer Tami Chambers Chief Clinical Officer Gretta McKelvey Director of Regulatory Compliance and Quality Services Stacy Martin Human Resources Rochelle Williams Marketing 65TH ANNIVERSARY ISSUE The dream of Lancaster Memorial Hospital be- gan in 1945 when the City of Lancaster passed a hospital referendum. But a series of obstacles blocked further development. Although the early effort to build a hospital was unsuccessful, a series of events in the 1950s revived it. In 1952, citizens organized a hospital committee chaired by Albert Weber, drew up Articles of Incorporation, and applied for federal funding. However, it was the local private funding and the support of community mem- bers that gave the hospital project its real impetus, especially an $81,000 bequest by Mrs. Lulu Williams in January 1953. Inspired by Mrs. Williams’ generosity, a group of women 2020 will go down in our hospital’s history as definitely one to remember. But, more importantly, 2020 marks an important milestone: the 65th anniversary of Grant Regional Health Center, formerly Lancaster Memorial Hospital. And while I’ve only been a part of this community for a short time, it was evident right away the strong connection our hos- pital shares with this community and those around us. It is with great pride that I share a look back at our amazing organization and how it has grown over the past 65 years. In 65 years, 12,944 babies (and counting) have been welcomed into the world at our facility. What an ac- complishment and a welcome change to celebrate and focus on something positive in our world today. As we recognize this milestone, we can’t help but turn our focus back to all the changes over that time. I want to thank the many hands that went into shaping Grant Regional Health Center into what it is today. I marvel at all the dedica- tion and work that went into making our hospital the strong, progressive organization that it has become. From our humble beginning to the hospital’s name change and the major expansion in 2008 to the many renovations and enhancements through the past two decades, our growth demonstrates the commitment we have to our patients. Our remarkable, ongoing designa- tion of five stars for Patient Experience from the Centers for Medicare & Medic- aid Services is a true reflection of how our staff go above and beyond for each individual patient, keeping their focus on safety and quality, while providing an outstanding care experience. A lot has changed in 65 years, but one thing remains constant: our deep- rooted commitment to serving our surrounding communities. We value our local and regional partners and are proud to play an important part in con- tributing to our local economy as one of the largest employers in our area. I invite you to look back at the legacy we’ve built. For over six decades, our hospital has been here to care for generations of families. It’s remark- able to be part of an organization that has been committed to making major investments in resources and people so that patients do not have to travel long distances for high-quality medical care. They will find it right here at Grant Regional, a special place they’ve come to know and trust all these years. To- day, even with the challenges we have encountered in the face of a global pandemic, our hospital and clinics stand ready to serve, ready to care for you and your family. We greatly appreci- ate the trust you have placed in us. David Smith, President/CEO The early years: A triumph of community cooperation Lancaster Memorial Hospital in 1955 Lulu Williams A message from David Smith, President/CEO On behalf of our entire organization, I’d like to say happy 65th anniversary, Grant Regional! Here’s to many more! formed the Lancaster Memorial Hospital Auxiliary and con- tributed greatly to the hospital’s realization through fundrais- ing, sewing and more. Additional support included a federal grant; community referendums and even a student-led penny drive fundraising campaign. 2 65th Anniversary Issue