Taking the time to learn about the new hospital is crucial

Several months back, I would have been the first to tell you our community didn’t need a new hospital. What we had was good enough. It was good enough decades ago when I had two of my kids there; and the rooms look exactly the same. So I figured it was good enough now.

Recently, I have spent considerable time in our hospital. Mike has had several lengthy stays there. I’ve seen first-hand how difficult it was to get him to the bathroom with a walker – the bathrooms aren’t equipped for walkers. It took delicate and dangerous maneuvering to make that trip – and I held my breath that he wouldn’t fall. I’ve seen problems with the electrical system. One day there was an awful electrical smell and I thought we might have to leave because of the smell.

I began seeing an aging facility that needed updating and changes just to meet the medical needs of patients. I sought out information and learned more. I encourage everyone to attend the Open House on July 16 from 4-7 pm at the hospital to learn about the proposal. This is a great chance to educate ourselves about the plans and the needs of our community.

So with information and education, my perspective has changed and I understand the need for a new facility to meet the needs of our families.

I, like other taxpayers, do not like to always pay more. For me and in this situation, the need of our community is a compelling and sufficient reason to pay a little more.

Sally Haase, Ritzville