The twinkling lights are down, the fine linens are gone and the "4-H Barn" is again a place for showing pigs, goats and steer.  But on Saturday, October 1, 2011, the David B. Means Memorial 4-H Center in Mansfield was dressed in a glistening underwater theme and filled with nearly 250 supporters of the DeSoto Regional Health System Foundation's ninth annual Magnolia Ball and Silent Auction.

 

In her welcoming statement, Deborah Dees, Chairman of the Foundation's Board of Trustees, told those in attendance the event's proceeds would be used to sponsor the addition of a physician's library, bearing the name of Dr. Donald Taylor.  The library is a part of the hospital's upcoming Medical Hub project - a complete renovation to the area surrounding the present nurses' station.  The renovation, due to being in the Spring of 2012, includes a new open-concept nurses' station, a physicians' library, a nurses' break room, a new chapel, a family comfort room and an ice/coffee station.

 

There were several poignant moments during the evening.  The first came when a standing ovation was given for the B.R. Bedsole family in recognition of their donation to the hospital project.  Dees states, "Travis, Sandra, Billie and Beverly have the ultimate tribute to their mother, Marie, with a cornerstone donation to the Medical Hub project.  Her legacy will live on as the nurses' station area will be named in her honor."  The second moment came when a Harley Davidson jacket, donated by the Emergency Room staff of DeSoto Regional, was presented in memory of Dr. Micah Day for bids in the live auction.  The third moment came when, upon the conclusion of the auction, Beverly Bedsole, Dr. Leigh Dillard and Verna Mitchell, Chief Nurse Executive, made a plea for pledges to be made in honor of Dr. Donald Taylor.  One by one, donars began to rise and commit to donations totalling nearly $20,000 with a promise of more to come.

 

The DeSoto Regional Health System relies on the Foundation's assistance in funding much needed capital improvements and projects.  Each year the gala serves as the major fundraiser for the Foundation.  According to Dees, this year's event was "the best ever in regards to monies raises."

 

For more information about the DeSoto Regional Health System Foundation or for questions on how you can become involved in the exciting new Medical Hub project, call Terrie Baker, Foundation Director at 318-871-3133.