Each year the Tri-City Herald is generous enough to allow us to write this article. We appreciate the opportunity. They call this edition Progress. I believe that no other name would be as appropriate for the transformation of Lourdes Health Network over the past few years than progress.

As I reflect back over my tenure at Lourdes, I'm proud to say the organization is financially healthy, has reinvested millions in our facilities, added state of the art technology across the network, built a stronger medical staff, expanded our physician network to meet the community's needs and focused on our quality care.

Lourdes Medical Center experienced the greatest transformation with upscale amenities, an expanded emergency room, a new chapel, remodeled units, added eight technologically advanced surgical suites, a completely refurbished and updated diagnostic imaging department, and serene spaces that reflect our faith-based heritage.

With the expansion at Lourdes West Pasco off Road 68, we've added additional family practice, gastroenterology, obstetrical and gynecological physicians along with a new diagnostic imaging center that is open every day from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. to accommodate busy family schedules. We are proud to remain true to our mission and bring health care to our neighborhoods.

Health care is ever-changing and we will continue to grow. Our largest project this year is a full remodel and expansion of our same-day surgery area and our gastroenterology suites. Outpatient procedures are a growing service line for Lourdes. Thanks to technology, many procedures that required an overnight stay a few years ago are now done with the minimal invasion, and the patient is able to recover in the comfort of their own home. This multimillion-dollar project is another way we're meeting the needs of our community. To remain consistent with the level of other improvements, we are not just expanding our space, but we are creating a contemporary space consistent with the other completed renovations.

If I were to take a glance at my Magic 8 Ball and look to the future of health care, I would see Lourdes Health Network continuing to grow, expand, and meet the community need. I also see the mission being at the core of every business decision we make. That mission is what separates Lourdes from other health care providers.

Our Catholic heritage and value system is ingrained in our associates and our environment. We ask God to lead our work through prayer as a standard part of meeting agendas, or as a morning prayer shared as an overhead announcement, spirituality of work initiatives, blessings for newborns, Mass and non-denominational services in our chapel on a regular basis.

But, as you know, health care is about people and professionals consistently delivering excellent care. At Lourdes, we're working diligently to ensure that the patient experience is second to none. We know that Lourdes is unique. We will make certain that each patient continues to experience the warm, caring, individualized, personal attention that is at the core of our health care delivery experience.

Thank you for the opportunity to provide you the care you need when and where you need it. With God's guidance, we will continue to provide you and your family the very best care possible.