HOBART — St. Mary Medical Center in Hobart, with construction of its expansion in full swing, was pleased to scratch one big-ticket item off its “wish list” — a state-of-the-art Stryker Navigation System.
“This is a safety mechanism for surgeons,” said Stryker Corp. representative Stephen Schott, as he explained the piece of equipment that will be used in the hospital’s Surgery Center. “It works like a GPS system. Sometimes, during surgery, things may not be clear, and with this instrument they can see where they are in real time.”
Schott was on hand during the March 6 presentation of a $105,000 check from St. Mary Medical Center Auxiliary.
“This hospital will have something not found anywhere else in the Midwest, even Chicago,” Schott said. “You’re putting the latest technology in a good surgeon’s hand.”
Hospital CEO Janice Ryba was grateful for the donation that would allow for the purchase of the system and praised the auxiliary for its hard work.
“Our volunteers are a special breed,” she told the audience of 75 people. “Each day, they go above and beyond … spending valuable time at our hospital.”
The annual check presentation to the hospital from the auxiliary came in two parts. In addition to the $105,000 to be used for the purchase of the navigation system, another $25,000 check was given by the auxiliary for scholarships to help for those who want to enter the health care field.
Funds for the two gifts were generated by proceeds from the hospital’s waterfall café, hospital gift shop and about one dozen small fundraising events, such as jewelry sales and bake sales.
“Historically, we always give money to the hospital. That’s in our bylaws,” said Mary Adams, longtime auxiliary member. “Every year, we’ve been able to top the last amount.”
Adams agreed with many other visitors at the breakfast that it’s the loyal force of auxiliary volunteers that make this possible. “We have a wonderful group of people,” she added.
To learn more about volunteer work at St. Mary Medical Center, call (219) 947-6011.
Sue Ellen Ross is a freelance reporter.