MCLEANSBORO – On Saturday, Nov. 23, the Hamilton Memorial Hospital Foundation hosted its 23rd Annual Foundation Gala Dinner. The event was held at Hamilton County Senior High School beginning at 5 p.m., and featured a silent auction, dinner catered by Yesterday’s Catering in Carmi, and program presentation.

Within the program, 12 employees were recognized for their milestone anniversaries with Hamilton Memorial Hospital, with a cumulative total of over 85 years of service.

Hamilton Memorial Hospital CEO, Victoria Woodrow, along with Bobbin Lasater, Hamilton Memorial Hospital Foundation Chairperson, presented the 2024 Distinguished Healthcare Provider of the Year Award to Kathy Pryer of McLeansboro. “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.” shared Woodrow.

A special donation was presented by Rick Rubenacker on behalf of “Rocking For a Cause.” “Rocking For a Cause” is a local not for profit organization that features a one-night farm concert hosted at Rubenacker Farms featuring up-and-coming and well known country music artists. Rick shared that this year’s event raised over $150,000 and 100 percent of the proceeds will be distributed throughout the local community, including a $25,000 donation to the Hamilton Memorial Hospital Foundation.

The event raised $81,325 in total, which will be used towards the purchase and installation of a new patient call light communication system for the hospital facility. “The new patient call light communication system is another step in Hamilton Memorial Hospital’s journey of progress” shared Woodrow, “With the current system nearing the end of its service, we are excited for the new integrated functionality that a new system will offer to improve communication when it matters most.”