The Skagit Regional Health Foundation recently hosted a ribbon cutting event to celebrate its half million-dollar campaign to purchase equipment upgrades to the Family Birth Centers at Skagit Valley Hospital in Mount Vernon and Cascade Valley Hospital in Arlington.

The campaign celebration included the unveiling of the “Garden of Generosity” donor recognition wall at the Skagit Valley Hospital Family Birth Center entrance. The wall incorporates nine original canvases painted by artist Ben Mann of Mount Vernon. 

The Foundation’s 2021 Family Birth Centers campaign, led by board trustee Evelyn Morse, raised funds to upgrade the security monitoring system and purchase new fetal heart monitors, neonatal monitors, bedside bassinets and recliners for overnight family guests.

The colorful donor wall features depictions of local blooms – irises, tulips and daffodils – as well as butterflies. Each designate a specific level of giving.

“The whimsy of Ben Mann’s artwork creates the perfect welcoming image to the families visiting the birth center,” said Linda Frizzell, Foundation Executive Director. “I know our donors will also enjoy this unique recognition wall.”

Cascade Valley Hospital’s Family Birth Center will now be the Nysether Family Foundation Family Birth Center. The family foundation bestowed a gift of $50,000 toward new equipment for Skagit Regional Health’s north Snohomish County hospital.

In 2021, nearly 1,000 babies were born in Skagit Regional Health’s two Family Birth Centers.

“The birth centers are always growing,” said Tami Schnell, Regional Director of Women’s and Children’s Services. “Family Birth Center staff and families are grateful for the amazing support of campaign donors. Their gracious giving helped support much-needed equipment for this essential and expanding patient care area.”