SE Illinois News

The Hamilton Memorial Hospital Foundation recently held its 23rd Annual Gala Dinner on November 23. The event took place at Hamilton County Senior High School and began at 5:00 p.m. It included a silent auction, a dinner catered by Yesterday’s Catering in Carmi, and a program presentation.

During the program, twelve employees were acknowledged for their milestone anniversaries with Hamilton Memorial Hospital, collectively contributing over 85 years of service.

Victoria Woodrow, CEO of Hamilton Memorial Hospital, along with Bobbin Lasater, Chairperson of the Hamilton Memorial Hospital Foundation, presented the 2024 Distinguished Healthcare Provider of the Year Award to Kathy Pryer from McLeansboro. Woodrow remarked, “Kathy has been a staple at Hamilton Memorial Hospital for more than 43 years. Most everyone knows her, and many have been cared for by her. She is always willing to help and do whatever is needed without a second thought. Hamilton Memorial Hospital is better for having her service and guidance throughout the years.”

Rick Rubenacker made a special donation on behalf of "Rocking For a Cause," a local non-profit organization that hosts farm concerts featuring country music artists at Rubenacker Farms. He announced that this year's event raised over $150,000, with all proceeds being distributed throughout the local community. This includes a $25,000 donation to the Hamilton Memorial Hospital Foundation.

The gala event successfully raised $81,325 in total. These funds will be allocated towards purchasing and installing a new patient call light communication system for the hospital facility. Woodrow stated, “The new patient call light communication system is another step in Hamilton Memorial Hospital’s journey of progress,” adding that they are excited about the improved communication capabilities that the new system will offer as the current one nears its end of service.