21
For the Sheer Joy of It
In Oswego, Kansas, people are mighty proud of their twelve-bed community hospital.
There are other hospitals in larger neighboring cities. But people in Oswego wouldn't think of going anywhere for their health care other than their local hospital.
One person told me, “We get here whatever you can get at Mayo. Except the staff is friendlier here.” Well, that may be a stretch. But that's how folks in Oswego feel about their hospital.
Mary Jane Cummins is the Development Director at the hospital. That means she raises money for the hospital. She splits her time between that and admitting patients.
The Development Office is in the basement of the hospital, in a corner tucked away in a long corridor. You need to really want to get to Mary Jane's office in order to make the trip.
Mary Jane doesn't have any training in raising funds. But she's passionate about the hospital and totally dedicated. That outstrips experience every time.
For over a decade, Sam Anderson comes by her office every year. It's usually in October. He calls ahead to make certain Mary Jane will be around.
It's obvious they have a strong relationship. He likes her (everyone does). She likes him.
In he walks. Bib overalls and a plaid shirt. As far as Mary Jane can remember, it's the same bib overalls and plaid shirt all these years. She thinks it may be his dress-up to come to town from his farm.
“Mary Jane, here's my twenty-five dollars. I wish it could be more. I love the hospital. I hope ...
