Issue link: http://viewer.e-digitaledition.com/i/574351
CHI FRANCISCAN HEALTH /// harrisonmedical.org 12 THOUGH SHE'S SINCE RETIRED, she and her husband Kerry continue to serve their community through their support of the Harrison Medical Center Foundation. Much of Dixie's philosophy is based on something her grandfather told her: "We make a living by what we've obtained, but we make a life by what we've given back." GIVING AND RECEIVING Dixie saw firsthand the good that Harrison does for the local community. She often cared for others, but her family received care as well. "My mother's life was saved at Harrison a number of times," Dixie said. "If it weren't for Harrison, the physicians, critical care staff and unit floor staffing expertise, my mother wouldn't have lived as long as she did. Our family is forever grateful!" Dixie's personal experiences made the Harrison Foundation a natural choice for her gift-giving. She reviews how the Harrison Foundation spends its money, and appreciates the responsible, committed stewardship that allows each donation to do the most good. FINDING MANY WAYS TO GIVE Dixie and her husband have supported Harrison in a number of ways. They give funds annually, as part of specific campaigns and by donating items for fundraising auctions. The couple has also made Harrison a part of their estate planning. "Estate planning is a personal gifting process that perpetually ensures essential support for access to exceptional health care for you, your family and your community into the future," Dixie said. "Dixie is proof that we all have the power to make an impact," said Stephanie Cline, executive director of the Harrison Foundation. "She's committed a lot of her life to Harrison, and she's very passionate about and proud of the hospital. People should be inspired by her example." Dixie Rae Hansen spent 39 years as a nurse at Harrison Medical Center, serving patients and improving their quality of care. Life A Life OF GIVING INCLUDE GIVING IN YOUR ESTATE PLANNING "Few people think about their local medical center until they need it; then they want it to be the best it can be," said Stephanie Cline, executive director of the Harrison Medical Center Foundation. "Harrison Foundation is your personal opportunity to improve local health care." Donations provide training for hospital staff, fund essential equipment and improve the patients' experiences. The Les & Betty Krueger Family Healing Garden is one example of a 100 percent donor-funded project that has made Harrison a better place for care and healing. "Planned giving is the way everybody can make a difference," said Cline. "You don't have to be wealthy. Every gift is important, and every donor matters." For a free kit with information about making the Harrison Foundation a part of your estate planning, call (360) 744-6760 or visit harrisonfoundation.org and select "Planned Giving."