There has been much discussion regarding St. Mary Hospital. I had the good fortune of delivering my baby girl at St. Mary Hospital; she was early and needed special attention in the Level II Nursery Unit. The care that was given to my daughter, myself, even to my husband was by far more than anyone could ask.
Fifty-two million dollars is a lot of money but I am sure you will agree that the benefits of the plan for St. Mary far outweigh the risks. If St. Mary closed, the City of Hoboken will have to hire more drivers, purchase more cars, pay more insurance premiums, to drive the senior citizens to other facilities. Thousands rely on St. Mary for primary care services. If those services are no longer available, they'll become sicker and seek care in emergency rooms, which ultimately drives up the cost to taxpayers. We live in one of the most densely populated communities in America. What would happen to the quality of life in this city if St. Mary weren't around to prevent the spread of pneumonia, provide tuberculosis shots or offer treatment for HIV?
The employees are devoted to keeping the hospital alive; very few left during this time of uncertainty. You have to ask yourself, why would medical professionals being lured to other hospitals stay? They believe. The St. Mary Hospital Auxiliary, many of them Hoboken taxpayers, are actively raising funds for the hospital and has pledged $500,000 for the new Emergency Department, they believe. People are calling the Volunteer Office daily to offer their services. Why? They believe.
I encourage residents to weigh all of the consequences of losing the city's only hospital. Better yet, be a part of the solution. Call the Auxiliary Office and become a member so that you can help keep this community healthy.
Sincerely,
Lisa Ann Baamonde
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