Trees need their leaves in order to stay healthy and grow. Without leaves, trees lose their beauty and support.

This metaphor is one that is close to the Memorial Regional Health Foundation. A hand-forged, iron Tree of Health is planned for a mid-September installation in the new Medical Office Building, and the tree’s leaves are engraved with the names of donors and supporters who helped fund the project.

The Capital Campaign

“In 2009, when the new hospital was built, we were successful in reaching our goal of a million-dollar capital campaign and built a donor recognition wall of leaves in the lobby of the hospital,” said Eva Peroulis, Executive Director of the MRH Foundation. “We wanted to follow the same theme with the ‘Tree of Health’ in the new MOB.”

As of June 2019, the MRH Foundation has raised $906,400 of its $1 million goal for the MOB, thanks to the help of more than 100 donors within the Craig community. The colors of the tree’s leaves showcase the specified amount contributed by donors — bronze ($1,000), silver ($5,000) and gold ($10,000). Donors who contributed more than $25,000 had naming rights to clinical areas and exam rooms throughout the MOB.

“Memorial Regional Health is honored to receive so many donations from the community,” Peroulis said. “We are pleased to receive support to improve healthcare in our community and improve the quality of life for our patients. We would like to thank the many Craig residents, corporations and local businesses for their support in helping MRH improve healthcare for Moffat County.”

The Tree of Health

The donor recognition wall featuring the Tree of Health can be found in the main first floor lobby area of the MOB. It was created by traditional blacksmith artisan David Little, and only one other place in Colorado — the Colorado Institute of Fertility in Lone Tree — boasts a Tree of Health made by the artist.

Though the initial capital campaign for the MOB is complete, those who wish to contribute to the MRH Foundation can still do so. Individuals can purchase a leaf at any time, and the Foundation will have a leaf engraved and added to the donor tree for community recognition.

“With the new MOB, we are investing in the healthcare needs of our future,” Peroulis said. “We are investing in the community by providing a state-of-the-art medical facility that will enhance the delivery of quality and integrated healthcare services to our patients.”