Union County’s New Medical Center Inaugurated with Local Support

Serene healing garden at Union Medical Center

News Summary

Union County, Tennessee is thrilled to announce the upcoming opening of the new Union Medical Center on February 11, 2025. This modern facility replaces the outdated Wallace Thomson Hospital and features a generous $100,000 donation from local icon Dolly Parton for a healing garden. Community involvement and fundraising efforts have raised over $1 million for enhancements, embodying a significant step forward for healthcare in the region.

Union County Welcomes New Medical Center with a Special Donation from a Local Legend

Union County, Tennessee, is buzzing with excitement as it prepares for the grand opening of the new Union Medical Center on February 11, 2025. This state-of-the-art facility is not just another hospital; it’s a shining promise of better healthcare for the community, replacing the aging Wallace Thomson Hospital, which has been described as both inefficient and a constant source of repairs. The kick-off to this new chapter includes a generous donation of $100,000 from none other than local superstar, Dolly Parton.

A Family Connection

The heartwarming story of how Dolly got involved stems from a simple fax sent by her cousin, Donna Cudd. When Donna needed to send an important letter to Dolly, she reached out using a fax number she’d gotten from her brother, Dwight Puckett, who is also a musician. Their family ties run deep, as both of these talented individuals hail from the same roots—Union County and Sevierville, Tennessee. Dolly’s connection to this area is strong, having familial ties that reach back to her mother’s birthplace in Lockhart, South Carolina.

The Healing Garden

Within a day of receiving Donna’s fax, Dolly, ever the philanthropist, jumped at the opportunity to support this vital community project. She has donated $100,000 specifically for a beautiful healing garden at the new medical center. This garden is envisioned as a peaceful retreat for patients and their families, providing a serene environment for those who need a moment away from the hustle and bustle of a busy hospital.

Grand Opening Events

On February 3, 2025, just a few days before the official opening, the healing garden was unveiled during a heartwarming ribbon-cutting ceremony. Even though Dolly wasn’t able to attend in person, she still made her presence felt through a heartfelt video message, expressing her excitement for the project and the overall importance of the new medical center.

A Facility Designed for Modern Healthcare

The new Union Medical Center is a massive $55 million investment, covering nearly 100,000 square feet on a sprawling 48-acre campus located along Highway 176. It’s designed not just as a hospital, but as a comprehensive health facility offering services such as emergency care, outpatient services, imaging, and even infusion services through the Gibbs Cancer Center. With 12 inpatient beds and several medical offices on site, the aim is to have all necessary healthcare services conveniently located in one place.

Community Involvement and Fundraising Success

The Spartanburg Regional Foundation has been at the forefront of fundraising for enhancements to the medical center. So far, they’ve successfully raised over $1 million, which will be utilized to create a chapel and cozy outdoor eating areas. Dr. Bill James has been a driving force in these efforts, tirelessly working to engage the community and gather support for this vital project.

What Lies Ahead

Community tours of the new hospital are set to take place on February 4, 2025, allowing locals to get a sneak peek of the modern facility before it officially opens. Dr. Natashia Jeter has emphasized that having all services available on one campus represents a significant leap forward in healthcare for Union County and will significantly enhance the experience for all patients.

As Union County gears up for this monumental opening, the excitement in the community is palpable. With devoted support from beloved locals like Dolly Parton, the new Union Medical Center is already making waves before it even opens its doors!