Genesis Gala Raises $164,000 For Technology And Patient Care Projects

DAVENPORT, Iowa – The record success of the 2007 Genesis Gala will benefit patient care for all ages.

The $164,000 raised from the April 20 Gala at the Davenport Outing Club was the highest total ever for the event.  The funds will be used to purchase a wireless fetal monitor, a critical care ventilator system and two neuroprosthetic and rehabilitation systems.

The Genesis Health Services Foundation is also setting aside $50,000 to provide educational scholarships to current Genesis Medical Center, Davenport nurses and for college students who are pursuing a baccalaureate degree in nursing.

The nursing scholarships create a relationship between students and Genesis so that the tradition of nursing excellence at Genesis can continue for generations to come.

Genesis is the region’s only Magnet nursing hospital.  The Magnet designation recognizes the highest standards of nursing care demonstrated at a select group of hospitals nationally and internationally.

“The success of the Gala was very gratifying because of what the success and support means for Genesis and the patients Genesis serves,’’ said Courtney Kay-Decker, who chaired the Gala committee with her husband, Ed.  

“The funds raised from the Gala will support the purchase of new technology to improve patient lives and will support the education of nurses who will then continue the tradition of nationally recognized nursing care at Genesis.

“It was a pleasure to serve as chairs this year and to have the opportunity to work closely with a strong committee and with the Genesis Health Services Foundation staff.’’

Here is more about how the Gala proceeds will be used:

• Fetal monitors continuously record a baby’s heartbeat while the mother is in labor.  The new monitors are wireless and waterproof, allowing the mother to walk and use water therapy to ease labor pain and discomfort.
• The critical care ventilator system is useful to patients of every age, but is especially important for newborns.  The equipment will allow the Genesis Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to care for babies that otherwise would require transfer to the University of Iowa.
• The neuroprosthetic and rehab system allows stroke patients greater independence by improving hand function and voluntary movements.  Daily activities such as dressing and brushing teeth become possible without assistance.
• Genesis nurses who wish to advance their careers through additional education and college students who want to pursue nursing careers can be eligible for Gala scholarships.

More than 300 people attended the Gala in support of important Genesis projects.

The mission of the Genesis Health Services Foundation is to develop, manage and grant charitable support to meet the health-related needs of the communities we serve.

To learn more how you can help Genesis Medical Center, Davenport, call the Genesis Health Services Foundation at (563) 421-6865 or go to www.genesishealth.com.

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