Former Trenton Residents Give Back
TRENTON, Mo. — When former Wright Memorial Hospital CEO Ralph Goodrich announced his official retirement back in June of 2003, he and his wife Ann indicated that their time in Trenton had been very rewarding, establishing many life-long friendships along the way. In fact, to this day the Goodrichs make multiple annual visits back to Trenton. Whether it is for turkey hunting in the spring or gifting close friends homemade fudge during the holidays, Trenton holds a special place in their hearts.
“Ann and I enjoyed being a part of the Trenton community and continue to value many friendships at the hospital and in the community,” says Ralph. “I was honored to have the opportunity to work at Wright Memorial for a number of years. I found the staff to be impressive and the community very supportive of their hospital.”
In recognition of the value and importance of the community’s support of Wright Memorial Hospital, Ralph and Ann have decided to include the Wright Memorial Hospital Foundation in their estate planning. It’s a planned gift for the future development and advancement of the hospital, in which the Goodrich’s feel is a very important mission in order to grow the region.
“The positive relationship between the hospital and the community was, and is a significant benefit for both entities,” says Goodrich. “Given upcoming changes and challenges in the national health care system, this hospital and community relationship becomes even more important going forward, solidifying our support to the Foundation.”
Ralph Goodrich was the CEO at Wright Memorial from December 1997 to July 2003. He also returned to serve in an interim role as CEO in 2007. Prior to coming to Wright Memorial Hospital, Goodrich held numerous executive positions within the Saint Luke’s Health System, including the first administrator for Saint Luke’s Mid-America Heart Institute in Kansas City. The Goodrichs now make their home in Kansas City where both are retired.
“As I reflect on my time at Wright Memorial Hospital and in my 45 year career in the health care industry, I have had the opportunity to work at some large and prestigious organizations, however none were more rewarding than my six years at Wright Memorial.”
“The Wright Memorial Hospital Foundation is extremely appreciative of this unsolicited planned gift by Ralph and Ann,” says Foundation Development Officer Matt Osterthun. “Planned giving will be vital for the longevity and advancement of our hospital, and the Goodrichs have just paved the way for others to join their mission and ensure the best health care is available for our region for generations to come.”
Planned giving is just one of the many ways that individuals may support the local hospital and like the Goodrichs, creating a gift first begins with a visit to your personal attorney or financial advisor to discuss available options. “A gift, no matter what size, will improve patient care today and provide for even better treatment options tomorrow,” says Osterthun. “Nothing is more important than preserving the health care services of our community” and the Goodrichs agree. “We all have a responsibility to give and this community has always gone above and beyond in community giving,” says Ralph Goodrich. “It is our pleasure to give back and we encourage others to do the same.”