"Topping Out" Ceremony Honors Completion of Steel Structure of SJRMC's New Hospital
MISHAWAKA, October 12, 2007
"Since my background is in healthcare, I'm not sure what kind of a foreman I'll make. But let's put this final piece of steel in place!"
Those words from Nancy R. Hellyer, President and CEO of Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center, drew enthusiastic applause as ironworkers were signaled to hoist the final piece of steel, a 50-foot-long 6,500-pound I-beam, and put it in place at SJRMC's new hospital in Mishawaka, Indiana.
SJRMC Staff and Board Members as well as over 30 Sisters of the Holy Cross and Mishawaka Mayor Jeff Rea made up a crowd of over 100 that came out to participate in the "Topping Out" ceremony, held on October 10 at the new hospital site.
In December 2005, SJRMC announced its plans to build its new, 633,000 square foot hospital on its 90-acre site in Mishawaka. The new, state-of-the-art hospital is being designed with a focus on maximizing patient safety and operational efficiencies. Two multiple-story inpatient towers will provide 254 private in-patient rooms and baths with a hotel-style feeling.
"Today's ceremony is about all of the wonderful people with whom we are blessed to work that have made our new hospital possible," Hellyer told the crowd. "From our Founders, the Sisters of the Holy Cross, to our Associates, Volunteers, Medical Staff, Board Members, Administrators, Community and Religious Leaders and other local agencies, and each of these skillful workers – all of you have meshed together, just like the steel in this building, to form something strong and something special.
"This structure is symbolic of this network of strength that will enable us to provide the greatest in healthcare to this community. I thank all of you."
As the beam was slowly raised and secured into place, the crowd applauded not only the significance of the event but also the dedication and efficiency of the ironworkers.
"I hope that all of you will be able to look at this beam with pride as your work continues here," Hellyer said. "This day belongs to you, too. You are a big part of the Saint Joseph Family and your efforts are deeply appreciated."
Throughout the week prior to the Topping Out ceremony, all those affiliated with SJRMC and the construction of its new hospital were invited to sign the final piece of steel so their names will forever be a part of the project.
Enclosing of the new hospital will now begin, followed by nearly two years of interior work. SJRMC's new hospital will open in 2009.
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