Hospital Enters Second 50 Years with Renewal

We begin with renewal. We are here today to put shovels in the ground to start a major exterior renovation of our hospital…the first in 50 years,” said Jasper Memorial Hospital Chief Executive Officer Curt Roberts welcoming more than 100 guests to the Love Lite Tree and groundbreaking ceremony held Sunday on the hospital grounds.

“Let’s begin work now…for the next 50 years.”
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The event commemorated 50 years of operation for the rural hospital which opened its doors in 1952 and became a part of Oconee Regional Health Systems, Inc. in 1999. That partnership has enabled the local facility to keep the doors open amidst the recent decline of federal funding.

In his address Sunday, Mr. Roberts emphasized renewal, recommitment and rededication. A renewal which has included the recruitment of new physicians and staff, examining and improving the quality of services and renewed commitment to caring for the people of this county, he said.
Guests were urged to recommit themselves to the “idea and ideal vibrant, modern community medical center and to rededicate themselves to supporting the hospital and using its facilities.”
After the address, administrators and board members donned hard hats and shovels for the ceremonial groundbreaking which was followed by the lighting of the Christmas tree.

Groundbreakers included Steve Jordan, Susan Holmes, Brian Riddle, Pam Stevens, Joel Gaston, Helen Stone, Thurman Willis, Donna Holman, Mr. Roberts, Laura Hammonds, Russell Bennett, Diane Chambliss, Jan Gaston, Alison Hilderbrandt and Molly Thomas.

The tree was decorated with angels in memory of deceased Hospital Auxiliary members. Tree decoraters included auxiliary members Jeanette Hunter, Katie Jordan, Johnsie Smith, Nona Wilson, and Helen Camp.

The local facility also revealed its “In Memory/Honor of…” brick campaign which allows patrons to buy a $35 or $60 engraved brick honoring a loved one. Dana Lowe, Oconee Regional marketing director, said that patrons could select any message of their choice for engraving.

Well-wishers had the opportunity to review some history of the medical facility which was displayed on an exhibit serving as the backdrop for the ceremony. Pastries and punch were provided by the ladies of the Hospital Auxiliary.