Patch Adams Delivers Message of Joy, Helps Raise Funds for Hospital Foundation

November 6, 2009

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Red noses and laughter filled the ballroom at The Peabody Memphis as Dr. Hunter “Patch” Adams made his Mid-South debut at Patch Adams: Living a Life of Joy, the first event in the Crittenden Regional Hospital Foundation’s new speaker and dinner series. The event raised more than $76,000 in support of the Foundation, which raises funds for a number of educational and community initiatives at Crittenden Regional Hospital.

Discussing how to live life with joy, Adams entertained a crowd of almost 400 people as he discussed how making the choice to living a life filled with passion and joy is the secret to happiness.

“Dr. Adams gave the crowd insight into how he manages to live a joyful life, while offering his input on healthy and happy living,” said Chris Chastain, executive director of the Crittenden Regional Hospital Foundation. “We were so thrilled by the turnout, and I’ve received nothing but positive feedback from attendees. Dr. Adams’ thoughts certainly challenged me and, I hope, gave everyone else in attendance something to think about.”

Adams, who founded Gesundheit! Institute in 1971, is widely known for incorporating humor, the joy of service, the creative arts and a variety of healing traditions into his model of care. In 1998, his accomplishments were revealed to the world in the motion picture Patch Adams, starring Robin Williams. Adams is an internationally recognized keynote speaker and professional clown.

“While somewhat unorthodox in his approach, there is no denying the impact Dr. Adams has on people throughout the world,” added Chastain. “I was honored to have him kick off our annual speaker’s series, and look forward to next year’s event.”

Funds raised from Patch Adams: Living a Life of Joy will go toward Crittenden Regional Hospital’s programs for patients and the surrounding community, medical equipment and quality improvements. Crittenden Regional Hospital serves residents in eight counties within eastern Arkansas and West Tennessee.

The Crittenden Regional Hospital Foundation exists as an inspiration to the people of Crittenden County in sustaining the hospital’s mission. It also provides an array of giving and volunteer opportunities by which individuals and corporations can play an active role in the betterment of the hospital.

Crittenden Regional Hospital has been a leading provider of quality health care services in Eastern Arkansas since 1951. Located in West Memphis, Ark., Crittenden Regional Hospital strives to provide excellence in patient-centered health care for the Mid-South.

For more information, visit http://foundation.crittendenregional.org.