Provided by UVA Health
As Prince William Medical Centers embarks on its 60th year of caring for the greater Prince William County area, UVA Community Health CEO Erik Shannon, longtime Auxiliary Volunteer and leader Ruth Simione, and Board Chair Steve Danziger spoke about the significance of this milestone.
Erik Shannon, Chief Executive Officer, UVA Community Health
“I am struck by the profound impact on our community, made possible by the past and present contributions of our dedicated staff. I wonder, did the nine ladies from the Women’s Club of Manassas, who in 1961 formed the health committee that would later become the Auxiliary Volunteers, envision such a remarkable future? Could they have imagined these comprehensive services we have developed over the years?
- Level 3 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU)
- Comprehensive women’s services and maternity care
- Behavioral health specialists (inpatient and outpatient)
- Outpatient surgery on campus
- Stroke and neurology specialists
- State-of-the-art blood services, including transfusions
- Heart and vascular care, new cardiac catheterization labs and rehab center
- Diagnostic imaging and interventional radiology
- Physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy
- Wound care and hyperbaric oxygen therapy
- Chronic pain management specialists
- Diabetes treatment and programs
- Emergent Orthopedic / sports medicine specialist consults
- Sleep lab
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to all who have contributed to our team’s success over the decades. Happy 60th Anniversary!”
Ruth Simione, Past Auxiliary President, 26-Year Volunteer
“What began with nine women from the Women’s Club of Manassas health committee in 1961 established the current day hospital auxiliary. Their dedication and initiative led to the first official meeting, which was attended by 44 women in late 1962 who became charter members known as The Pink Ladies.
“In the spring of 1965, the Auxiliary initiated and sponsored a Teen Volunteer Program for girls, between the ages of fourteen and eighteen, who were referred to as Candy Stripers. In 1973, the Teen Volunteer program was opened to boys, though the girls’ Candy Striper uniforms and colloquial titles existed well into the 1980’s. Through the years, many of the Teen Volunteers have pursued careers in medicine and healthcare.”
“The auxiliary evolved into a robust group that has raised more than $6.8 million dollars, contributing to initiatives such as the birthing center, the plaza at Haymarket, the launch of the mammogram coach, a scholarship program for teen volunteers, Covid support, and more. They have volunteered over 2.2 million hours of service to the hospital.”
As Ruthie herself demonstrates, auxiliary members are driven by a profound sense of enduring love and kindness for the community.
Steve Danziger, Board Member
Reflecting on the whirlwind of changes the small independent hospital has undergone in the last 15 years, Steve said, ‘”In the beginning, 60 years ago, it was such a small community hospital that the Board had keys to open the doors. We all truly appreciate the future of where this facility is going.”
‘When UVA came on board, it was magic. We turned a corner, and the doors are now wide open with more space, many more providers, the adoption of telemedicine activities, the integration of all facilities on one MyChart system, and new technology and equipment. All of these advancements are just the beginning of what I know will be an amazing future.”
A particularly fond memory of community care was during the Covid pandemic. Steve organized the board to conduct a ‘thank you walk.’ Board members stationed at the facility’s entrance expressed gratitude to everyone entering or leaving the hospital. “It was a truly special moment. With life back to normal now, we’ve returned to engaging with one of the most diverse populations in the country.”
Other Community Hospital Milestones to Celebrate
While honoring Prince William Medical Center’s rich 60-year history, UVA Health also ushered in a 10-year anniversary for Haymarket Medical Center in March of 2024. And Culpeper Medical Center will celebrate 65 years of operations in 2025.
