Hospital For Special Care - Special Commemorative Section

A Vision Realized DAVID CRANDALL &

HOSPITAL FOR SPECIAL CARE Special Commemorative Section Sunday, June 24, 2012

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2 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

A VISION REALIZED Supporting our communities. Part of our Type

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SUPERIOR

SERVICE deserves to be recognized.

At Webst Webster, we value commitment to superior service. That’s why we are pleased to recognize President and CEO David Crandall for p years of service to Hospital for Special Care. We applaud his 27 ye his dedication to rebuilding lives through complex care and dedic rehabilitation services, and congratulate him on his retirement. reha abilita

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A VISION REALIZED

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 3

Best Wishes, David David Crandall, my close friend and colleague for over the last 22 years, has been                     Dave s many friends and ties to this community have been an important catalyst to our growth and overall success. I speak for the entire leadership team at HSC in wishing David the very best in his retirement.

John J. Votto, DO, FCCP President & CEO

Fifteen years ago, a very unique two-President/CEO leadership model was forged between David Crandall and Dr. John Votto. The success that ensued lied squarely with the remarkable chemistry and the extraordinary partnership between the two. This business model rarely exists, nor has longevity, but this has been a dynamic collaboration for Crandall and Votto.

Through this partnership, the Hospital earned its reputation for caring and excellence, over many years, patient by patient. Every initiative taken, and every decision made, was in consideration of its effect on our quality of care and service. David s career with our Hospital began in 1985. David was a visionary who took the hospital to new heights while anticipating the changing needs of the community and healthcare environment. In 1997, David and John              best for the Hospital, its mission, culture, patients and employees.

David recognized and appreciated the amazing work and the expertise and specialized care that was offered to our patients and their families. Many of the new, or expanded areas where we deliver services, can be attributed to David s constant quest for new opportunities. Regardless of the new opportunities and initiatives, he has always been tireless in his efforts to put quality        However, as many of you may now know, following a distinguished 27-year career, David decided to step down from his role                       We are saddened by his departure, and wish him well as he plans for the future.

I am pleased to announce, that Dr. John Votto will continue in his role as the President & CEO of our hospital system.                                            The Board of Directors would like to extend their sincere appreciation to David Crandall and Dr. John Votto, as well as the senior management, and support teams, for their guidance and leadership in implementing these changes.

Additionally, our thanks to all the dedicated employees of the multiple service areas that make up Center of Special Care. Inc.

Elizabeth K. Fumiatti Chairman of the Board

Center of Special Care, Inc.

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A VISION REALIZED

To a Friend

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

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                                                  

                                                                                                                                                                                                                        William J. Higgins Chairman of the Board, Manes & Motions Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc.

Thank You, David Thank you David for twelve years of unwavering support to Hospital for Special Care s Joy of Art! You have always been our loyal friend, and long-standing benefactor. You are not only an art lover, but you truly understand the value of art in the recovery process, and believe in our mission.

                                     

      

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

A VISION REALIZED

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 5

‘A gift from New Britain to the people of Connecticut’ Retiring David Crandall shares HSC memories

By David Crandall

school. I decided to make that career move because, while I was HEN THE IDEA working at New Britain Genfor this special comeral Hospital as an orderly in the memorative section Emergency Room, I was inspired of the New Britain Herald, and by the Nurse Manager who hapthis article, were shared with me, pened to be one of the first male I was of course deeply honored. graduates of New Britain General The feeling of honor was quickly Hospital’s School of Nursing. His followed by some hesitation and name was Raymond Howell, and many delays. This was due prihe would prove to play a pivotal marily to the fact that I wanted to and important role in my life even until his death. He was one ensure that the story was accuof my best critics over time, helprately told. To tell my story is to ing me in my clinical managetell a story of years of wonderful individuals and teams of people of ment development. Ray unfortuwhich I was lucky enough to have nately had multiple sclerosis, and been a part of it for 25 years. One it ended up debilitating him over time. He graciously though, came seldom gets the opportunity to on the board of directors, and was share their story. excellent in the role as an advoHere is mine… cate for our patients.

People who have known me all His knowledge, and obvious of my life, have known that I have compassion for people, made me always been a New Britain kid, and a hospital kid. Starting from at least take a look at what possibilities this career path might the age of 3, I have always lived on hospital property, and grew up have in store for me. As it turned out, I too went through the proworking at hospitals. I grew up gram, and upon graduation began on the campus of New Britain working at New Britain General General Hospital because my Hospital. I continued to do so father worked in the laboratory for the next 10 years in various there. I had a sense at an early age that I would be working there. departments, almost always in a managerial capacity. At the time, Following high school, I was I really thought that I would one of those kids who wasn’t really all that motivated. Because of spend my entire career at New Britain General Hospital, because that, I did not do well in college.

Continued on Page 7 That was until, I went to nursing

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David Crandall with his family, from left, daughter Jill Crandall White, wife Sharon, daughter Carrie and her husband, Jason Taylor.

Basic principles that guided me As a nurse, I was taught to care for people all people. Those we serve, caregivers, supporters of the hospital.

Listen to people and learn. You can never know everything, so keep yourself open to others opinions and views.

Don t be quick to judge. Allow people to learn, sometimes by failure. Appropriate risk is acceptable, and necessary.

It may be hard at times to listen to, but be open to constructive criticism. Try to learn from each encounter, This is dif        Get people involved, and get them excited. HSC is a winner because of this.

All employees are equally important and equal in value.         

You will become more important to some segment of society.

Make yourself valuable and don t give up on that thought.

Learn as much about the communities you serve and demonstrate that you are serious about meeting those needs. This           so many ways.

Give to your community in every way.

If something succeeds, give credit to the group. If something fails, take ownership of it yourself.

Don t interfere with people doing their jobs.

Develop a board that represents your community, and can effectively oversee the hospital.

6 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

It took a team to build

By Michael Schroeder

Editor and Publisher, New Britain Herald

I

An Academy for the future H OSPITAL FOR SPECIAL CARE has always been about challenges, but not usually of the type that was key to the creation of the New Britain Academy of Health Professions. At a 2009 meeting of community leaders organized by Jason Howey, president of Okay Industries, the issue of funding the much-hoped-for venture was raised. David Crandall put it on the line:

HSC would put up $50,000 if the other hospital in town, The Hospital of Central Connecticut, would do the same. Larry Tanner, then president and CEO there, agreed to match the grant. And that’s how the New Britain High School’s Health Academy began. There are 350 students enrolled for September 2012 in the fourteen courses that will now be offered.

Elected officials understand why HSC is so important to CT

P

OLITICAL PARTNERSHIPS are a very important part of any hospital operation. Government payments from programs like Medicare or State insurance programs make up a good part of any hospitals budgets. HSC relies on State insurances for many of its patients because of the long periods of hospitalization some people             State budgets. HSCs programs are very unique, and in some cases, the only source of care in the Connecticut.                them as friends since day one. The hospital s founders, Mayor George Coyle and Dr. William J. Watson made it all happen. Just as              founders. Dreamers and motivators keeping the hospital going in            cut s communities.              that has helped this hospital. There are so many.                        

             helped the hospital as a State Representative, and continues to help                                                political champion helping us navigate the political system. Without him, it may have been impossible to rebuild the hospital back                                        have him as a friend.           care issues at the State level. Senator Terry Gerratana is someone                                 representatives are all very helpful. Rick Lopes has taken the lead                                    as needed.

N 1985, DAVID Crandallwalked into an institution that had little resemblance to the world-class health facility it is today. It was his first day working at New Britain Memorial Hospital as the quality assurance manager. This would be a major change from the last two hospitals where he had been employed. Memorial had not seen any renovation since the day it opened in 1941.

The building was old and worn; the equipment was so old that most fully depreciated many years before.

He would learn quickly why this hospital was the perfect fit.

He saw promise within and outside those walls. He saw a challenge, and felt he was up to it, despite the risk he was taking by leaving his job as Assistant Director of Nursing at Middlesex Hospital.

And he was coming home.

In those early years, it was a daily process of just keeping things running. The care was fabulous, Crandall recalls, despite the facilities and lack of resources. The staff really cared about the patients, with most of them, like him, growing up and living near the hospital.

Dr. Katherine Ill, the Hospital’s President and Chief Executive Officer, had already placed her trust in Crandall, promoting him to Vice President of Administration (COO today), according to Ill. But now, it was time for her to plan for retirement, and with that she gave a three-year notice to the board of directors to find a replace-

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

A VISION REALIZED

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 7

Hospital for Special Care

strong partnership was forged.

As Ill later said, “you should take advantage of every crisis.” Indeed, this was the opportunity for Votto and Crandall. This turned into a leadership test that convinced the board, - that a joint presidency would work, with the right people. And so, one afternoon, following lunch and a lengthy discussion, while sitting in the first booth on the left at the Great Taste Chinese restaurant, Crandall and Votto agreed that they could do just that. “Often a relationship dies before it starts,” Crandall said. “But, we complemented each other, both in terms of personality and work styles.”

And their professional backgrounds, Crandall’s in nursing and healthcare management, Votto’s in clinical practice and research, meshed so well.

“Many people think we split our responsibilities between clinical and nonclinical,” Crandall said.

“Well, that just wasn’t true.”

Although he took responsibility on new idea development, Crandall was intimately involved in the clinical end as well. “But, we never wasted each other’s time. We naturally divided up the substantial tasks of running this Hospital.

There was no redundancy.”

Crandall didn’t waste others’ time, either. “I don’t believe in meetings.

Continued on Page 21 This section was produced by the New Britain Herald and the Hospital for Special Care. Special thanks to Susan Gordon Gates, director of corporate communications and public relations, and Maria Pietrantuono, liaison, community and hospital programs.

David Crandall and Dr. John Votto in 1998 and 2008.

A vision brought to life Continued from Page 5 after all, this was the hospital where I was raised, and I always had a very personal connection to it.

The reality though, was that in 1982 there did not seem to be any career advancement opportunities for me. So, the next three years of my career were spent at Middlesex Hospital in Middletown where I had been hired as the Assistant Director of Nursing.

It was during my last year of my employment there that I began to study Quality Assurance. During that year, I was part of a team that developed the Quality Assurance Program for Middlesex Hospital.

In 1985, I started looking at opportunities once again and answered a blind ad in the New Britain Herald for a position as a Quality Assurance Manager.

When I placed the phone call, I realized that it was New Britain Memorial Hospital - a place where I had worked for three months when I was in nursing

school. Knowing a little bit about Memorial as we called it then, I thought it would be a good place to apply my quality assurance knowledge, and further myself in the field. My healthcare colleagues thought I was nuts. Memorial had a fine reputation, but was sadly out-of-date. When you walked through the front door, the 1940’s came to mind, certainly not 1985.

I want you all to understand, that I did not have it in my plan to stay there for long. But, some things happened in the first months of my being there that created the solid foundation that gave me the opportunity to change from a person with experience leading the clinical areas of a hospital, to understanding and ultimately being able to lead a hospital. And you see, this is exactly why I was excited. I wanted to be a part of the hospital’s rebirth.

Maybe in some way, it was crazy, but I was young, perhaps a bit naïve, thinking I was invincible and

that nothing was insurmountable.

I was up for any challenge. And, I was curious…

There have been certain groups of people and individuals who have significantly influenced me in my career development as I started on the road to eventually becoming President and Chief Executive Officer of Hospital for Special Care.

Hospital founders George Coyle, Dr. William Watson, and then Dr. Katherine Ill, are a few of the very special people who were the pioneers – the risk-takers during the hospital’s history, that helped establish what we know, and are, today.

I will always remember them.

They all had a very important attribute in common – a passion for improving the quality of life for others. That was so important to them, to me, and to the vision of this hospital.

From day one, HSC has been blessed with administrators, clini Continued on Page 9

8 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

A VISION REALIZED

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ALLERGY

 

                                

                                          

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 9

A VISION REALIZED

‘Every day, our staff aspires to be the best’

Continued from Page 7 cians and support staffs who share this passion, as well as dedicated board members who have provided the direction we need to realize our mission on behalf of the most medically-complex patient populations in the country.

The dedication and generosity embodied in the good people I want to remember and recognize, speaks to the understanding and appreciation they have for the many challenges our patients face as they work to rebuild their lives. They are only part of the HSC story, and my story. Each HSC physician, therapist, support staff, employee, volunteer, board member and donor plays a critical role in maximizing patients’ outcomes and the overall success of the hospital.

They are very special people, helping people with very special needs. I thank all of you.

In just over seventy years, Katherine, Dr. John Votto, our great staff and I, have advanced HSC to be one of the nation’s leaders in the care of people with

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some of the most complex medical issues. At each stage of growth, there has been the right mix of a caring and committed staff, a diligent governance process and a very supportive community. Each group has ensured that our mission has remained focused, valid, relevant, and of value – and that the needs of our community are being served by this mission.

Every day, our staff aspires to be the best providers of care and to nurture relationships among caregivers, patients, their families, and fellow staff. We strive to restore independence and improve the quality of life for each patient with their specific interests in mind. We pride ourselves in forging partnerships with the best caregivers and staff in the healthcare business.

Anyone who has served a hospital in a leadership role understands the depth of responsibility that it requires. I offer my thanks to Dr. Katherine Ill, as my teacher and mentor. I also thank Dr. John

Votto, my fellow President & CEO and long-time friend and colleague.

I offer my gratitude to you for an incredible strategic partnership and business model and for your sincere

commitment to Hospital for Special Care, and to me. Katherine is responsible for bringing HSC into the 21st Continued on Page 16

Rita Grygus: A problem solver

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ita Ellen Grygus was one of those people. Rita was the Medical Facilities Consultant Supervisor for the State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health, in the Division of Health Systems Regulation. Hospitals are very regulated entities and because of New Britain Memorial s buildings being so depreciated and outdated, the Department of Public Health was probably more routinely at Memorial than any other hospital in the State.

In my role as Quality Assurance Manager, I was Rita s host whenever she visited. Her approach to solving problems was much different from others at the Department of Public Health - then and now.

Most of the people in the Department of Public Health would handle any adverse issues they discovered in a punitive way.

Rita s approach was always educationallyfocused. I learned a great deal from her                 I held Rita Grygus in such high regard, that during my eventual Presidency, and after she retired from her State position, I invited her to join our Hospital s board of directors. Some people at the hospital did not understand why I wanted to add a former surveyor - our former surveyor from Connecticut s Department of Public Health to our board, but I knew she was the ideal choice.

I am proud to say that Rita remains on our board today, and continues to be a        when necessary, in her quest to make what is now Hospital for Special Care.

Manes Manes & & Motions: Motions: A A magical magical connection connection

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ANES & ANES & lost MOTIONS MOTIONS its founder, Jerrilost its founder, Massi, a fewJerri years Massi, a few years ago. Jerry sure was ago.

Jerry sure a dreamer in awas big Her very away. dreamer inbeing a big ensured way. Her that very this being program would ensured that thisnot only succeed, program wouldbut not would continue to only succeed, but grow. Our mutual would continue to buddy, Bill Higgins, From left, Sharon Crandall, Bill Higgins and Elizabeth Kalinowski. grow. Our mutual became the Chairman buddy, Bill Higgins, Bill Higgins and Elizabeth Kalinowski. of the Manes & Motions From left, Sharon Crandall,         became the Chairman board of directors after her passing. Jerry program for HSC. It serves our healthcare of the Manes & Motions    beyond    would have liked that. populations and goes that.

This board of directors after of herJerry s passing.

Bill was a good friend and Jerry has also program program now for HSC. serves ourveterans healthcare helpsItreturning who would haveinvolved liked that. been very at Hospital for Special populations goesneeds beyond This have unique and therapy andthat. enjoy doing Bill as wasa aboard goodmember friend offor Jerry s and has also Care many years.

He this through and program nowequine-assisted helps returning activities, veterans who has personal commitment Manes & beena very involved at Hospitaltofor Special interfacing the horses.

Bill enjoy Higgins has have uniquewith therapy needs and doing Motions is evident tofor everyone.

Bill has Care as athat board member many years.

He become a steadfast friend over the years, this through equine-assisted activities, and always understood my visionto ofManes bringing&the allowing mewith to vent about challenges. has a personal commitment interfacing the horses.

Bill HigginsInhas community Hospitaltofor Special Care, abecome positiona like the one I ve held, youyears, need Motions thatinto is evident everyone.

Bill has steadfast friend over the and the value of bringing the hospital into the people who you personally trust, and always understood my vision of bringing the allowing me to vent about challenges.value In to community. be honest with you all the time.

I rely on him. community into Hospital for Special Care,

and the value of bringing the hospital into the community.

a position like the one I ve held, you need people who you personally trust, and value to be honest with you all the time. I rely on him.

From Tom and I...

Best wishes David on your retirement.

Thank you for your friendship and support for your vision, commitment and dedication to HSC.

Geraldine and Tom Devers 023711

10 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

CONGRATULATIONS

and best wishes from all of us at

%LLIS 3TREET s .EW "RITAIN #4 4EL s &AX

okayind.com

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Okay Industries, Inc.

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Milestones

1985 ■ In August, David Crandall is hired as Quality Assurance and Risk Manager.

■ The Stroke Rehabilitation Program and the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program continue to be great successes.

■ The Hospital is planning to establish a unit for the rehabilitation of patients challenged by traumatic brain injury patients.

1986 ■ New Britain Memorial Hospital files a Certificate-ofNeed for a major hospital overhaul, and an extensive facility-planning effort is initiated. This results in the submission and approval of this CON from the state for the $40 million facility-development project.

1987 ■ David Crandall is promoted to Vice President of Operations.

1988 ■ The Hospital is in compliance with all regulatory and accrediting agencies standards, but the aging physical plant needs serious attention. The appearance and crowded living and working conditions are

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 11

A VISION REALIZED

Follow the timeline in which David Crandall participated or led the charge

a serious negative factor in the Hospital s successful recruitment of needed staff, as well as patients searching for the best rehabilitation setting.

■ The NBMH Day Care opens, which is a strong recruitment tool.

1991 The professional architect firm of Russo & Sonder ■ NBMH celebrates 50 years of services to the of New York City is retained to analyze the overall physicommunity. cal plant and to address the long-range building needs ■ Early in the year, the Commission approves the of the Hospital. This is desperately needed so that patient programs can evolve in an aesthetically pleasHospital proposal, which includes renovating the existing and highly functional setting. ing structures, building a new patient wing, establishing a new day rehabilitation hospital and creating a 1989 modern facility for chronic care.

■ David Crandall is promoted to Vice President ■ The project is budgeted at $36.8 million with a of Operations and Chief Operating Officer. major share of the funds, $33.8 million, to come from a tax-exempt bond offering. The State requires that the ■ The Hospital prepares and rolls out its first professional annual report, unveiling its new logo and tagline Hospital raises the remaining $3 million in matching funds. for the first time on the cover.

■ The 90,000-square-foot wing will house rehabilita■ The Hospital files a CON application to the State tion, inpatient respiratory care, pediatrics and outCommission on Hospitals and Health Care. Funds are patient services. This is the first major expansion to needed for repairs to the existing facility.

Memorial s facilities since 1960.

■ The State Review Board believes renovations ■ Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program formalized. planned for the existing facility are insufficient and asks Dr. Katherine C. Ill to submit a proposal for a ■ The Hospital achieves its first CARF accreditation. major overhaul of the hospital.

■ Stroke and Traumatic Brain Injury Program ■ Dr. Ill is appointed president and chief executive formalized. officer.

See MILESTONES, Page 12 ■

David

Your Gift of Friendship and Our Professional Bond are Everlasting Maria P.

David, Susan G.G.

Enjoy Your Retirement!

We Will Miss You.

Where it all began .        

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The New Britain General Hospital     

12 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

Continued from Page 11

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1992 ■ The Hospital launches its first major fundraising campaign, Challenge to Care. All major work for the hospital expansion is given to Connecticut businesses. The following firms are engaged to oversee the project: The firm of Stecker, LaBau, Arneill, McManus Architects, Inc. of Glastonbury are asked to design the new facility with the active participation of employees and patients. Construction management is executed by Frank E. Downes Construction Company of New Britain. Engineering work is assigned to Macchi Engineers, LLC of Hartford, for civil and structural aspects of the facility. Electrical and mechanical engineers from BVH Engineers, Inc., of Bloomfield.

■ May 8, the Hospital celebrates its expansion.

■ Thorpe House, a residence in Bristol for individuals living with acquired brain injuries, opens as the first HSC Community Residential program.

By December, Challenge to Care campaign has raised one-third of its $3 million dollar goal.

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grant for NBMH. ■ The Hospital celebrates the grand opening of the new patient-care wing, with its new Hospital for Special Care name.

The Hospital s new name and branding are born, and with it, a new logo and tagline, We Rebuild Lives.

The patient-focused care, service line management model is established.

The official opening of the new wing with the new logo showcased.

1994 Completed $3 million-dollar building and renovation capital campaign.

■ Barbara Donahue, a writer from Farmington, is commissioned by the Hospital to write Coyle s Folly: The Story of Hospital for Special Care. It publishes in 1995.

■ The Hospital formalizes clinical rotations for medical students from the University of Connecticut School of Medicine.

Close Observation Unit opens.

Case Management Model introduced.

■

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

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and is cultivating new relationships in healthcare and in the surrounding communities.

■The service line patient-centered delivery model enhances the team approach to care: the core businesses are Rehabilitation, Respiratory and Pediatrics.

1996 In May, a corporate reorganization is completed, creating the parent company, Center of Special Care, Inc., and with two subsidiaries, Hospital for Special Care and HSC Community Services, Inc. ■ David Crandall promoted to Executive Vice President of Administration.

■ Dr. John Votto promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief of Staff.

The Hospital for Special Care Ivan Lendl Golf Classic tournament is established to raise funds for the Hospital for Special Care Ivan Lendl Adaptive Sports Camp.

■ HSC Community Services, Inc. is established as a not-for-profit, tax-exempt corporation.

■

1997 David Crandall and Dr. John Votto are both pro1993 1995 moted to President and Chief Executive Officers.

■ The new wing takes shape.

■ Rehabilitation Services expand: The Young Stroke ■ A partnership is developed with Central Connecticut ■ The School Nurse Program wins a national award, established in collaboration with the Connecticut State Program is formalized. Now patients who sustain strokes State University which establishes Professors-in-Resiwill receive specialized treatment and therapy. dence at the Hospital to foster employee Department of Education.

See MILESTONES, Page 13 ■ The Hospital is financially and operationally strong, ■ The Kresge Foundation sets $450,000 matching ■

New Britain Herald| www.NewBritainHerald.com

Continued from Page 13

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education and development, also promoting research and management strategies.

■ HSC becomes a resource partner of Hartford Health Care Corporation.

■ HSC links with Eastern Rehabilitation Network to coordinate outpatient rehabilitation services. An HSC Admissions Nurse Evaluator spends her days at Hartford Hospital screening patients for both HSC and HH. ■ HSC provides all physiatry needs for ERN, including HH s inpatient rehabilitation unit.

■ An affiliation with Datahr Rehabilitation Institute is established. This statewide healthcare partnership and case management program will help more patients throughout the state live independently in their communities, and avoid institutionalization.

■ Special Care Dental Services opens, providing services to Medicaid-eligible children.

■ A new freestanding greenhouse is built, enhancing the Hospital s therapeutic recreation program by providing an environment where patients may enjoy gardening s therapeutic benefits.

■ Spinal Cord Injury Program is formalized.

■ Brittany Farms Health Center is purchased; this addition complements the Hospital s continuum of care.

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A VISION REALIZED

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■ Fundraising/development is an important focus with 2002 the creation of The Foundation of Special Care, Inc. ■ Manes & Motions Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. ■ Research department formally established. affiliates with the Hospital for Special Care continuum.

■ The Web arrives; HSC unveils its first website, www.

■ Pediatric Unit grows from 27 to 30 beds. hfsc.org ■ Special Care Community Center (currently HSC s Research & Education Center), and formerly the Mary 1999 Immaculate Academy, is the new home for adaptive ■ The Family Guest House is built with employee campaign funds, affording patients families free on-campus sports programs.

■ A Student Nurse Internship Program is formalized. accommodations. It proves to be a great amenity for ■ Nursing Scholarship Program established. patient support and for families receiving intensive education prior to a patient s discharge.

2003 ■ The Aquatic Rehabilitation & Fitness Center ■ HSC Child Care Center expands to open a Youth becomes a reality and opens in September. This 27,000-square-foot facility boasts a state-of-the art, Camp accommodating employees children during the two-pool model, with accessible equipment and special summer, and for major school vacations throughout the lifts. Aquatic therapy enhances, and is a complement to, year.

■ The Bernoulli Ventilator Management System to other therapies offered in recovery and in the rehabilitaenhance patient safety is implemented. tion process.

2000 ■ Y2K transitions flawlessly.

■ Joy of Art! is founded.

2001 ■ An alternative medicine practice is established as 1998 the Special Care Holistic Wellness Connection on Vine ■ The Close Observation Unit is the only regional Street in New Britain.

■ The Aquatic Rehabilitation & Fitness Center becomes weaning center in Connecticut.

■ The Joint Commission grants the Hospital Accredita- a beloved community resource, offering something for tion with Commendation and a survey score of 98 out everyone.

■ Equipment Exchange Program formalized. of 100.

2004 ■ HSC opens a satellite in Hartford at Saint Francis Hospital and Medical Center, and grows to 228 beds.

2005 ■ Respiratory Care Services receives recognition by the American Association for Respiratory Care as a Quality Respiratory Care Provider under the association s Quality Respiratory Care Recognition program for Long Term Acute Care Hospitals.

See MILESTONES, Page 15

Enjoy your retirement David.

Thank you for your commitment and support of the HSC Auxiliary HSC Auxiliary Board of Directors

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A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

The magic is in their differences

In fact, they are about as differ- sends a better message to the ent as their physical appearances. community,” cites David Crandall, Uniquely serving as Hospital FACHE. for Special Care’s (HSC) dual It’s not as if they think alike.

Presidents and Chief‘ ExecuThey don’t. They often think very tive Officers (CEO) since 1997, differently, playing devil’s advocate David Crandall and John Votto’s or acting as a sounding board for exceptional success lies not in the the other. Issues are met with the power of two, but squarely in their benefit of at least two perspecremarkable tives, affording chemistry and them the abilextraordinary ity to render ‘We are complementary; partnership. a wiser, bette there is no redundancy.

True partneroutcome.

We are so comfortable, ships foster “Over the reciprocity, a years, we have not only with each other dance of equal faced varyas professionals, but also exchange and ing degrees on a personal level, as responsibility of challenges, and in celebratand we have friends.’ ing the difalways agreed – Dr. John Votto ferences. The in the end Crandall/Votto about how to partnership emsolve them,” bodies the quintessential example marvels Votto, DO, FCCP. of an union of trust and equal exCrandall continues, “There are change. These partners have never no egos here. You can’t share a pohad to delineate responsibilities, sition like this if the competition in differing corporate roles. between egos exists. You have to Hospitals are different from have exactly the right two people other organizations with the chal- to achieve this uncanny balance. lenge of balancing both the clini- The fit has to be absolutely percal and administrative functions. fect. I have never had a day when Having a President/Chief of I doubted this dual role or this Staff and President/Administrapartnership.” tion, keeps this balance in check.

“This has been such a dynamic While most hospitals have differ- collaboration on all levels,” offers ing titles for these two positions, Votto. The reason it has been so at HSC we value them equally. successful is because we have an “We have merged these two incredible respect for one another, top-level positions, to adopt a we both understand when we healthier team approach. Not only are good at something, or when has this become an ideal arrange- something is very important to ment for the two of us, but it also the other. We allow each other to ideally serves this Hospital and do what he does the best.”

Dr. John Votto and David Crandall in hospital’s board room in 2003.

“We are complementary; there is no redundancy. We are so comfortable, not only with each other as professionals, but also on a personal level, as friends. We really like each other. We relate so well and have cultivated an excellent communicative rapport over the years.”

Not only are their offices in close proximity, but they spend an occasional lunch together for continuity and fostering the fellowship of their partnership. Their strength and success stems from their specific relationship and partnership. It’s a magic that is

realized as a result of their distinctive skills, backgrounds and personalities.

President and CEO’s – their goals may be lofty, the vision may be wondrous, the challenges numerous…

But one thing is for sure – the charge is awesome; the responsibility great, and having a trusted partner to share the ride makes it that much more exciting, and far less lonely at the top.

This story was written by Susan Gordon Gates for the Hospital for Special Care’s 2003 annual report .

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Continued from Page 13

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2006 â– The Research Department receives more than $500,000 in grant awards .

2007 â– HSCÂ’s Pulmonary Support Group grows to 252 members, ages 58-92, representing 20 surrounding towns. â– Leadership Education Program is established. â– The Neuromuscular/ALS Clinic opens in November.

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 15

A VISION REALIZED

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Center. â– Garden of Hope established on Pediatric Unit. â– HSC partners with the Consolidated School District of New Britain and The Hospital of Central Connecticut to establish the New Britain Academy for Health Professions.

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Foundation, Inc. ($1 million), American Saving Foundation ($750,000), and Charles H. Kaman Charitable Foundation Inc ($500,000) are major contributors.

— David Crandall steps down as President/CEO and retires October 1, 2012.

2010 2010 ■Neurobehavioral Program expands – a new 15-bed wing is built. ■Outpatient Capital Campaign begins, to fund the 2008 renovation and expansion of the original building to cre■Manes & Motions Therapeutic Riding Center, Inc. ate additional space for enhanced outpatient services. becomes a wholly owned subsidiary of HSC Community 2011 2011 Services, Inc. ■The Health Sciences Library and the new Resource ■Cardiac Medical Unit opens. ■The Autism Center at HSC needs assessment comCenter provide improved access for employees and completed; white paper presented to Governor Dannel Malmunity members. ■Veterans’ Outreach Program is established. loy’s transition team. ■Foundation of Special Care, Inc. changes name to 2012 2012 Hospital for Special Care Foundation, Inc. ■HSC receives the 2012 Triple Crown Award from the New Britain Rock Cats Foundation for its ongoing 2009 ■Neurobehavioral Program expands, creating an commitment to the special health needs of the region’s 8-bed unit adjacent to the Transitional Rehab Unit. residents. ■Launch phase one of electronic medical records ■The Autism Center at HSC opens for outpatient implementation. services. ■Pediatric Muscular Dystrophy Association Clinic ■The Hope Campaign surpasses $4 million-dol- Susan Gordon Gates, director of corporate communications and moves to HSC from Connecticut Children’s Medical lar mark. The Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman public relations, at right, with Maria Pietrantuono, liaison, community and hospital programs at the 2012 HSC annual meeting.

MULTI SPECIALITY MEDICAL & SURGICAL CARE FOR CENTRAL CONNECTICUT SINCE 1947

Roshni N. Patel, M.D. “One of Only Few Doctors Who Have Specialized and Is Board Certified In Neurology Pain Medicine.�

Advanced Spine & Pain Care Grove Hill Medical Center Roshni N. Patel, M.D. Interventional Pain Management

Roshni N. Patel MD completed her Neurology Training at University of Connecticut, and was awarded a Fellowship in Pain Medicine at the prestigious New York University with extensive training in interventional procedures. She has also completed extensive training in management of headaches and migraines from Columbia. She is double board certified in Neurology and Pain Medicine and board eligible in Headache Medicine.

Patient Centered Pain Management Our Approach:

Dr. Patel is a Neurologist and Interventional pain physician dedicated to the treatment and management of pain. She treats complex pain patients with a holistic approach.

The team at Advanced Spine and Pain Care will work together to provide relief for acute and chronic pain with a multidisciplinary approach. In addition to interventional procedures and medication management, Physicians specializing and certified in integrative medicine and nutritional medicine will develop a personal pain management plan for the patient.

A holistic approach will be taken including an integration of modern and invasive treatments in combination with alternative treatments including hypnosis, exercise program, physical therapy, and nutrition assessment.

Our goal and mission, is to reduce pain, improve function, and to maximize quality of life.

Our New Office Location & Contact Information 375 Willard Ave. Newington, CT 06111 phone: 860-768-1166 fax: 860-768-1163 www.grovehill.comn

Conditions & Treatment:

Most adults (90 percent) will suffer some kind of back pain during the course of their lives, while another 67 percent will experience neck pain. Back and neck pain are among the most common reasons for doctor visits, and are often times responsible for lost workdays, disability and high healthcare costs.

Conditions treated: t -PXFS QBDL QBJO and Neck pain t 4QJOBM 4UFOPTJT t 4DJBUJDB t %FHFOFSBUJWF EJTD EJTFBTF t %JTD )FSOJBUJPO t 3BEJDVMPQBUIZ t 'BDFUPHFOJD QBJO t 4DBSPJMJUJT t 4QPOEZMPTJT t 4QPOEZMPMJTUIFTJT t 4IJOHMFT 1PTU IFSQFUJD Neuralgia) t "SUISJUJT 1BJO t 8PSL *OKVSZ 1BJO t /FSWF /FVSPQBUIJD 1BJO t )FBEBDIFT BOE .JHSBJOFT t 0DDJQJUBM /FVSBMHJB t 5SJHFNJOBM /FVSBMHJB t $PNQMFY 3FHJPOBM 1BJO Syndrome ($314) t $PNQSFTTJPO GSBDUVSFT t 1PTU MBNJOFDUPNZ TZOESPNF t 'BJMFE GVTJPO TZOESPNF

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16 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | ww

‘A talented and committed staff is

Continued from Page 9 century. The buildings were modernized, as well as all of the patient programs under her direction.

Hospital for Special Care, always the cornerstone in all that we do, has a history of so many positive stories. More patients with successful home-bound outcomes than ever before choose our hospital for their rehabilitative and continuing care needs. HSC does not just meet the challenges facing our special populations, but goes above and beyond in providing programs and services that promote health, wellness, and leadership opportunities for all members of the communities we serve. Going above and beyond expectations – the care we provide and what we look for in our patients - is yet another reason this hospital is so special.

Our talented and committed staff is the inspiration and strength behind all that we do. Each day, there are numerous examples of courageous individuals and their families who meet the challenge of their disability or illness successfully.

This is the reason for HSC’s existence, and why so many caring staff is committed to this special place.

I was always looking for better ways to help our patients recover and get home quicker. We understand that each patient has different goals in recovery, and the importance of implementing care and therapy to meet those individual goals. A patient-centered focus is part of our culture, our brand of care – and caring. We encourage patients to be empowered and have a voice in their care, and to work side-by-side in the decisionmaking process with their families, and the hospital team of experts in healing and in meeting those personal goals. This is very much what

Dr. Katherine Ill: Leader and mentor

I

D LIKE TO SHARE with you a look at the longstanding relationship with my mentor, leader and friend Dr. Katherine Ill who was the former, now retired, President & CEO of our hospital.

Katherine was the key person in my development as an administrator. I doubt that others in similar situations such as mine have a person like Dr. Katherine Ill in their lives. She was the catalyst, and the one that changed me from a manager to a leader. No one else even comes close.

Katherine and I worked very closely in the beginning years of developing a new strategic plan for HSC. We were there day and night for many years. Working with someone under those conditions could be a personal disaster, or an opportunity. Because of my background as a nurse, I worked with many physicians. You have to remember that I started working at hospitals in the late sixties when the doctor was the captain of the ship and we all had a natural understanding and appreciation for physicians as our leader.

So that was still my mindset, and that respect grew as I worked closely with Katherine. My responsibilities increased quickly during that time period. We never

makes HSC distinctive. It is what we are known for, and what you can expect from us.

Now as I reflect, I envision a future where Hospital for Special Care continues to be a recognized authority in comprehensive rehabilitation and long-term care for pediatric through geriatric patients who are challenged by the most complex illnesses or injuries.

HSC has earned a reputation for care, and caring patient, by patient. Nothing is more important to us. Every initiative we pursue, and every decision we make, we consider its effect on the quality of care and services we deliver. I am

had scheduled meetings, but we met often. What I knew, she knew, and there were many discussions that ensued - most of them like case studies, that allowed for much debate as to better ways to do something in the future. It was an exciting time, and I treasure those years more than any time since.

Katherine and I continued to meet over the years and her counsel was of extreme importance to me.

There were times that I had made up my mind on a certain direction and someone wisely had Katherine give me a call. She is the only person that I trusted in every regard in my career. I always felt that she had my best interest in mind. I did not receive any direction growing up, and did not understand the importance of a parent s direction in life- making decisions. Katherine broke through with me and understood the skills that I brought to the table and honed them over the years we were together. Katherine took the time to teach me and she always seems to understand what I wanted to do.

I cannot express in words the importance that she had in my life. It is a unique relationship that ensured my success over the rest of my career. I hope that each of you in        Ill. Your life would be enriched.

proud HSC is now renowned in the medical community and among hospitals nationwide, as a resource for our expertise, treatment and support, and noted most importantly for our outcomes, which consistently exceed national standards.

Getting back to my journey, my first project at HSC was proving the need for an employee child care center. The hospital had not built a new building in 27 years at that point, and money was very tight.

There were not a lot of employee incentives at that time. After a careful review, the board of directors approved the project. It has not surprisingly remained full ever

since. This project brought me much satisfaction. It was built to provide for our employees and their families. It also fosters recruitment and retention. I’m a firm believer that if your employees’ needs are met - and their families are cared for and happy - that will instill respect and commitment in them– and make for more content and devoted employees.

It was during projects like this one, that I really learned about our employees, and strived to find ways to continue to meet their needs.

What is the most important asset we have to get the job done?

Without exception, the answer is always the people who work here.

I realize that all of successes begin with our people. Smart hospital administrators know the importance of retaining excellent hospital employees.

Our employees have always motivated me. They are not shy, and have been known to passionFor David, it was always more than being compliant and following the rules and regulations of healthcare in the State. He wanted first and foremost what was best for patients.

His focus has always been the patient experience – and making it better, and better. He navigated through the challenging healthcare environment, year after year, with his focus of providing exemplary service to each patient, while having the deepest respect and appreciation for the talented and creative employees at Hospital for Special Care. David and I have a mutual respect for one another. I learned a lot from David along the way. He’s one smart guy, and very innovative, and trailblazing in his thinking. It has been a wonderful experience all these years to work with someone like David, who both challenges you to do better, to be better, and who forever thinks outside the box.

--Rita Ellen Grygus, Medical Facilities Consultant Supervisor (Retired), State of Connecticut, Department of Public Health, Division of Health Systems Regulation, and a member of the Hospital for Special Care’’s board of directors, since 2002

ww.NewBritainHerald.com

A VISION REALIZED

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 17

the inspiration for all we do’

ately advocate for the patients they care for. This has always been true.

HSC was the creation of New Britain citizens. Individuals who had the foresight to see the need for expertise and specialized care that this hospital offers. HSC truly was a gift from the citizens of New Britain to the citizens of Connecticut.

An excellent example of this is our little family apartments – which is probably my favorite project. Sixteen years ago, the idea came from one of our employees, Nadine Johnson – who was a nurse on our pediatric unit. In fact, she still is. She always had a lot of good ideas and was not shy about voicing them. She understood the plight of the parents on her pedi unit – the struggles they faced, daily. She saw their realities. One day she shared her next idea with me - a Family Guest House, conceptually to operate like a Ronald McDonald House.

And so, during the employee giving campaign the following year, our employees were the ones who raised all the money to build the Family Guest House on our campus – not an easy feat for such a small hospital. But, that’s us. That’s Hospital for Special Care.

Since 1997, the Family Guest House has afforded overnight accommodation to families who want and need to stay close to their family member at Hospital for Special Care, all free-of-charge. I always thought that was pretty neat how that all came together with the seed of an idea from an employee who saw a need. It made good sense, and we acted on it.

This is the best expression of staff understanding all of the dynamics of care – the totality of it. Making sure those needs were known, and ultimately met. It’s also the responsibility of our hospital to do something too – to support ideas – we

The Phillips family: Patient advocates

T

HE PHILLIPS FAMILY is the best example of a family having to deal with a tragedy in their life. One of their children was a passenger in a car involved in a horrible accident. Their son David sustained head injuries resulting in a coma from which he never emerged. He remained in this coma from the time of his early teens until his death when he was in his forties.

One of his parents, either Sheila or Art, was at his side every day from the day he was injured. I met them when they visited me with a concern. I visited them often, as they had great ideas on how to improve a patient s life at the hospital. One has to remember that this couple were always patient advocates, not hospital advocates.

From my meetings with them I thought it would be of value to start a family forum

where we could discuss, how to improve the quality of life of patients as a starting goal.

This group was a success. So many wonderful ideas came out of these discussions.

Many of these ideas were then implemented at the hospital.

After David s death, Art and Sheila remained active at the hospital as volunteers.

I have always valued their ideas and their advocacy. HSC grew and became better because of their wisdom.

Daughters of Mary: Dynamic caregivers

I

HAD MY FIRST ENCOUNTER with a of commitment once you sister from the Daughters of Mary decide to do something of the Immaculate Conception for people.

(DMIC) about three months after This relationship constarting my job. A nurse called tinued to grow over the me, and said there were a lot of years. We helped each high school students on one of the other s organizations over patient units. They were visiting time. They have never patients. I went upstairs and came refused a request of mine, face-to-face with one of the tiniest as I would never refuse people I had ever encountered. one of theirs.

Mother Jennifer Carroll, Sister Honorata may have been small superior general, DMIC Sister Mary Mark also has in stature, but believe me, and anyone been a longstanding member who knew her will verify, she was one of the of our hospital Board of Directors cementing most energetic and dynamic people I have our relationship. ever met. We became fast friends, and met We have leased often after that. Through her, I learned the property from the history of her Order and HSC. The DMIC Order with the       goal of providing the hospital. They managed its affairs and many community          programs. The hospitals existence. gym has been She was able to give me so much informaused almost tion as to what happened in the beginning. every day for the What was more important is that she brought past ten years by me to her home and introduced me to many athletes with some Sister Mary Mark, DM members of her Order. type of special need or I was raised in the German Baptist church, disability. They know this is their gym, and have but did feel I knew a little about Catholicism. made good use of it.

After all, I grew up in New Britain. Now I I miss Sister Honorata since her death, but was getting a real lesson. I am glad that I I am grateful to her for the many friends I met Sister Honorata so early in my career have made at her Order. Sister Mary Mark in at Memorial. This new relationship instilled       even more of a need in me to center in on the in my life, and because of her experience as a communities that we serve. I observed the healthcare administrator, she understands evmany projects and care models that they had erything that I have had to deal with over time. in place. They accomplished all of this with Mother Jennifer Carroll has continued the a very small number of their Order involved. tradition under her direction. I cherish each I understood from them the steadfast part of the DMIC, and hope my relationship con-

tried to make things happen - to answer the call.

Over the years, there was always someone here, like Nadine, who cared so much– the care was always amazing. Really – the care has always been our hallmark, part of our brand if you will.

From as far back as I can remember, the staff treated the patients as their own families. And I can say wholeheartedly that never changed or went away. That’s engrained in

our culture, and we always reaffirm that here. That’s how we’re identified. That’s truly a distinctive quality for which I am so proud.

I realized my personal vision with the advent of our community programs. HSC was very successful with preparing patients to return home after a medical event.

The trick though was to keep them home, and make their life as good, and as complete, as possible. Over Continued on Page 30

18 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

A leader in the purest sense of the word and Lou programs and Gehrig services were ISIT ANY disease are to the state and BOOKSTORE – on foot nation. making or on line - and you’ll see national But in New shelves of business book titles headlines.

Britain we explaining how to effectively Local knew about manage people. programs his leadership; As someone once told me, “You and we knew such as the don’t manage people, you manage the kinds of hospital’s things. You lead people.”

Manes & pioneering David Crandall was a leader in Motions programs the purest sense of the word.

Therapeutic Hospital for Retiring now as co-president Riding Special Care, of New Britain’s highly-respected under its Center for Hospital for Special Care, youngsters co-presidents Crandall was a leader in his and adults Crandall and industry, in his community, in his with Dr. John Votto, William Millerick is president of the hospital and even in his family. disabilities would launch.

Greater New Britain Chamber Never a game-show host, and the HSC’s work Chamber of Commerce. publicity-pit bull or credit grabber, in the areas of venerable Crandall’s leadership was often Ivan Lendl traumatic brain as underappreciated as Hospital Sports Camp for youngsters with injuries, neuromuscular care and for Special Care’s groundbreaking groundbreaking advances in ALS disabilities have been in place for

By William F. Millerick

V

With heartfelt than ks to

a very special lead

The staff of Hosp ital for Special Ca re congratulates Dav id Crandall on his retirement In his daily wo

er.

rk, David Crandall executed what was its mission, culture best for Hospital fo , patients and empl r Special Care – oyees – and took a pa rti cu la r pr id e in its staff.

And now the hosp ital’s staff would lik e to thank David fo the role of Presiden r 27 years of devote t & CEO with John d service, sharing J. Votto, DO, for 15 has earned the hosp years. Their dynam ital its reputation fo ic collaboration r caring and excelle nce, patient by patie In recognition of D nt. avid’s many contrib utions to the advanc reaffirms its comm ement of the hospita itment to continue l, the staff the amazing work patients and famili an d specialized care of es at Hospital for Sp fered to ecial Care.

2150 Corbin Aven ue

, New Britain, CT

06053 | www.hfsc .org

years.

Everything about this hospital is forward thinking and innovative.

You don’t achieve that without great leadership, and just as importantly, compassion for people with disabilities, illness and injuries.

New Britain is unique in that it has two of the very best – and two very different – hospitals serving the state. The Hospital of Central Connecticut is one of the most admired and respected acute care and teaching hospitals in New England. Hospital for Special Care has always had a strong professional relationship with HOCC, as it took care of the long-term rehabilitative patients.

At HOCC, the miracles are daily, at Special Care the miracles take a little longer.

Continued on Page 20

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

A VISION REALIZED

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 19

CONGRATULATIONS to David Crandall on fulfilling a vision.

022261

Best Wishes David Crandall n{ ÕÀÀ ÌÌ -Ì°] iÜ À Ì> U nÈä ÓÓx ä£x www.storybrothers.com

From your friends at Bristol Hospital

bristolhospital.org

THE NEW BRITAIN ACADEMY FOR HEALTH PROFESSIONS AT NEW BRITAIN HIGH SCHOOL

THANK YOU DAVID!

We value your vision, leadership, guidance, unwavering support and long-standing commitment to the launch and success of our

New Britain Academy for Health Professions.

The Health Academy executive committee, students, teachers and administration wish you a happy and most fulfilling retirement.

We will all miss you!

023487

023487

20 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Talk about leadership? Talk about David Crandall

Coninued from Page 18 In healthcare today, many of the best executives are always looking over the horizon at the next opportunity, or the next big system where they can make their marks and careers.

Crandall is a throwback to a different era in healthcare, when community-good trumped personal ambition. A true local guy who married a local girl, he began his career as a nurse at the New Britain General Hospital.

Talk about leadership. Imagine what an inspiration he has been to every nurse and healthcare every nurse and healthcare worker who saw a man who began his career as a nurse rise to become co-president of one of the state’s most respected hospitals.

One of the privileges of being

Chamber of Commerce president is that you get to work with some very bright, very successful people.

The most successful bear studying because they have much to teach.

Crandall was one of the best.

I would admire the way he was willing to stretch and take risks in the name of improving healthcare.

There is a reason people use the word “innovative� when describing Hospital for Special Care, under David Crandall’s leadership.

New programs, new facilities, new ways of doing things were always on the table and always being put in place.

I often wondered if people realized just what a healthcare visionary was in their midst.

Because he was so quiet, so modest, such a regular guy, I’m not sure people realized what a

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, May 24, 2012

Thursday CONNECT CENTRAL UNITIES OF THE COMM SERVING

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stretching the truth at all to say that the Chamber of Commerce’s success today is in some ways a by-product of watching and working and learning with David Crandall.

But you needn’t take my word for it. Talk to his employees, his staff, his colleagues. The depth of their loyalty to him is profound.

It isn’t some rah-rah, whoop de do, isn’t he a great boss kind of loyalty. It is much deeper and much more serious.

It is the kind of loyalty inspired only by leaders and never by managers.

I have often said that much of the great leadership in this city over the past few decades has come and continues to come from the business community.

David Crandall was one of the very best.

IAL FEATUR

MER | SPEC

  

big-timer David Crandall was in healthcare.

He approached philanthropy, both personal and on behalf of the hospital the same way.

You probably cannot find an rganization or event that didn’t benefit from Hospital for Special Care’s sponsorships and support.

His support of the Chamber of Commerce was unwavering and I hope our support of the hospital was equally so.

I used to love to visit his office and we’d spend time, talking in confidence about an idea the hospital had or some new city project or opportunities to grow and better serve people. He was so matter of fact, cool and inwardly confident in his ability to make it happen.

I learned an awful lot from him over the past decade and it isn’t

Smith | Staff

Annalisa Russell-

Thanks for giving back, David.

It takes a newspaper – and great people – to build a community

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 21

A VISION REALIZED

It took a team to build a special hospital

Continued from Page 6 replacement.

That effort had begun when Dr. Harry Gosling, a Professor at the University of Connecticut and President of the Hospital board at the time, suggested that she take a long-delayed vacation, which she finally did. But her timing couldn’t have been worse - or better.

Almost immediately upon her departure, the Hospital was informed that its allocation would be slashed dramatically by the State. It had to cut $3 million from the budget, immediately.

Together, Crandall and Dr. John Votto went to work for the next three weeks. The all-consuming task was all consuming, but it was going to take some dramatic action to close the gap. They found that by instituting a weekday-

weekend scheduling system, they could save the Hospital $2 million dollars. They scoured every nook and cranny to get the next million – but they did it. And, with it - a strong partnership was forged.

As Ill later said, “you should take advantage of every crisis.”

Indeed, this was the opportunity for Votto and Crandall. This turned into a leadership test that convinced the board, - that a joint presidency would work, with the right people. And so, one afternoon, following lunch and a lengthy discussion, while sitting in the first booth on the left at the Great Taste Chinese restaurant, Crandall and Votto agreed that they could do just that.

“Often a relationship dies before it starts,” Crandall said. “But, we complemented each other, both in terms of personality and work

The Consolidated School District of New Britain and the New Britain Board of Education Would like to Extend Our Gratitude and Best Wishes to

David Crandall President & CEO Hospital for Special Care David Crandall, the Champion of our Academy for Health Professions at New Britain High School, has been instrumental in the program s success.

Thanks to his dedication and commitment to the Health Academy, scores of New                 We wish David much happiness in his retirement.

styles.” And their professional backgrounds, Crandall’s in nursing and healthcare management, Votto’s in clinical practice and research, meshed so well.

“Many people think we split our responsibilities between clinical and nonclinical,” Crandall said.

“Well, that just wasn’t true.”

Although he took primary responsibility on new idea development, Crandall was intimately involved in the clinical end as well. “But, we never wasted each other’s time. We naturally divided up the substantial tasks of running this Hospital. There was no redundancy.”

Crandall didn’t waste others’ time, either. “I don’t believe in meetings. Mostly they’re a waste of time.” His style was to work directly with his people, set the agenda and let them get their jobs

GROUP

INCORPORATED

done their way.

During that time, he felt like “the flower child of healthcare.”

The atmosphere was laid back, and, “it was fun because of that,” he said.

It was a flat managerial structure, Votto adds. “We took great ideas and ran with them.”

The result was six to eight new programs, one ever couple of years. And they were focused on what Crandall described as the Hospital’s guiding principle: “To do things nobody else wanted to do, and take the cases nobody wants.” And, as time went on, to provide care at a higher level than others could provide, and at a lower cost.

In the 1990s, as healthcare focused on de-institutionalizing, the hospital moved to community Continued on page 24

CW Group, Inc. Salutes David Crandall

for his contributions to Persons with Disabilities & The Greater New Britain Community Empowering Through Employment Since 1964

023790

22 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

024241

ALWAYS HERE FOR OUR COMMUNITY Congratulations on your Retirement

Congratulations Dave on your retirement and Thank You for support of our community

New Britain-Berlin YMCA 50 High St. New Britain, CT 06051 860-229-3787 www.nbbymca.org

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Congratulations and

024176

Best of Luck!

From your friends at

024235

Schaller Auto World

Congratulations David on your retirement.

BEST WISHES from

860-828-5866

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845 Farmington Ave., Berlin

A YANKEE PEDDLER & PAWN

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Polumbo’s Jewelers

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Congratulations to David Crandall for his commitment to excellence.

Enjoy your retirement.

On behalf of Manafort Brothers, Inc., and the Manafort Family, we salute David Crandall in his retirement for his innovation, leadership and philanthropy in healthcare and for

WALNUT HILL CARE CENTER

his profound loyalty to the City of New Britain.

024182

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Visit Our New Redesigned Website:

Best Wishes from your friends at

Best Wishes from your friends at A Yankee Peddler and Pawn {Ă‡Ăˆ

Best Wishes from your friends at the Community Foundation of Greater New Britain Congratulations on Your Retirement From Everyone at Center Station Pub & Grill

542 East Main St. New Britain 860-224-3811

3FTUBVSBOU www.angelicos.com

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

55 Grand Street, New Britain, CT 06052 860-223-3617

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Congratulations and Best Wishes From the Entire Roly Poly Family!

Roly Poly

021032

BAKERY & DELI 587 Main St., New Britain, CT 06051

860-229-5109

CONGRATULATIONS on 27 years of Service and Dedication Gail and Tony Newman

024245

023704

CONNECTICUT NURSES’ FOUNDATION CONGRATULATIONS 377 Research Parkway, Meriden, CT 06450-7160 on 27 years ofhelp the We appreciate all you have done to Connecticut Nurses’ Foundation promote Servicenursing and Dedication in Connecticut.

We would like to thank you for your help Gail and Tony Newman in getting this accomplished.

023704

Best wishes David!

With great appreciation for years of service.

We bring out the Best in You

022359

Connecticut Chapter

CT’s premier provider of physical rehabilitation, sports medicine and health & wellness services

860.696.2500 tel

www.easternrehab.net

Chef 's Equipment Emporium

David,

717 Berlin Turnpike, Berlin, CT 06037 860-828-9601

Thank you for your vision, leadership, & unwavering commitment to Hospital for Special Care’s staff, patients & their families.

023485

10am - 8pm Monday thru Saturday, 11am - 5pm Sunday

David, Congratulations On Your Retirement from Everyone at

Connecticut Tire Inc.  

www.cttire.com

Locally Owned & Operated for over 40 years

Congratulations and

Best of Luck!

     

        

023701

Happy Retirement!

Amy Frey & Susan Mitchell

Best Wishes & Good Luck in Your Future Endeavors.

024168

From your friends at

Schaller Auto World

024177

024250

Dad/Papa, We are so proud of you and love you so much!

Carrie, Jill and our families

The ALSA-CT staff, board and volunteers

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 23

A VISION REALIZED

24 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Quality of life focus of hospital’s growth were off, particularly on weekends.

They now depend on each other instead of the ER. It puts people together to share their common needs and concerns, providing a support group that extends throughout the region. “They don’t feel isolated anymore,” said Votto.

Another of the programs focuses on developing leadership among young patients, helping them speaking out for their needs inside and outside the healthcare system.

These programs have survived, and thrived, although the hospital is not paid to manage them.

Crandall is proud that despite several budget crises, and a continuous strain on funding, the Hospital has found a way to keep them going.

More recently, the opening of

Insurance Associates, Inc. wishes to congratulate David Crandall on 27 years of visionary leadership.

Best of luck in all your future endeavors.

Insurance Associates,Inc.

023329

Continued from Page 21 building – following through with patients, particularly children, though their lifetime. They built a leadership program.

They are most proud of the Hospital’s renowned Pulmonary Support Group, which has grown to capacity and beyond, despite budget constraints over the years.

Far from just a rehabilitation program, it’s a holistic approach to treating chronic illness – physically, mentally and socially.

“The program has had a dramatic impact on the quality of life for these patients, who now total nearly 300 – the largest in the country,” Votto said. It has alleviated the fear for many of those challenged by COPD, who had become dependent on Hospital emergency rooms as a safety net when their normal doctors

the center for the treatment of ALS – also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease – has taken these concepts a step further. Treatments are built around a patient’s family, making it a team effort.

And the way medical services at the Hospital are delivered is changing, too. It became clear that patients with chronic illnesses have a myriad of medical needs on an ongoing basis --from visits with specialists, to physical therapy, to medical tests. All of these must be scheduled, transportation arranged and assistance provided – often by family members. More often than not, this meant multiple trips to the hospital from more than an hour away, depending on the patient’s living situation.

“No one understands how difficult it is for both the patient

and the family to repeat the tasks needed, over and over, to arrange everything to make a medical appointment,” Crandall claims.

“Now, every attempt is made to coordinate these resources so a patient can get as much done as possible in one trip – reducing unnecessary physical and mental strain,” added Votto.

All of these efforts are not without costs. In today’s healthcare environment, reimbursements – the lifeblood of the Hospital dedicated to serving the neediest – are always under attack. “This leaves us no choice but to lobby and advocate,” Crandall says.

“And it’s primarily at the State level where this effort must be targeted.”

“We have had incredible friends over the years – former State Continued on Page 27

Dave Crandall A true friend and confidante.

May all your future plans Senator Joseph Harper and ideas for the hospital become a reality.

Joseph and Marilyn Harper

74 Vine St., New Britain, CT 06052

860-225-4694 024061

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 25

A VISION REALIZED

Our Dearest David

FEDERATION HOMES Dedicated to Independent Living

Many people touch our hearts, but not everyone can touch the heart of so many as David Crandall. A true gentleman who cares, always shows compassion and has such charisma.

You have made the difference in the lives of so many and helped to bring about incredible change. We are very grateful to have had the opportunity to work with you, and share in your generosity.

God s special blessings to you.

Always your special friends,

Best Wishes To David Crandall.

Enjoy Your Retirement.

is now accepting applications for our 1 and 2 bedroom waiting list.

Activities include but not limited to art, ceramics, vegetable and flower plantings, exercise, knitting, plus, any other, please call to get further information.

156 Wintonbury Ave., Bloomfield

We thank David for his spirit of cooperation and collaboration. He is a gift to the Daughters of Mary in the New Britain community at large. ~Sister Mary Mark, D.M. 022362

Applicants must be 62 years of age or older, Handicap or Disable in order to apply. Income Limits restricted.

Please contact Federation Homes at 860-243-1603 or 860-243-2535 for an application.

Mother Jennifer, Sister Mary Mark, Sister Deborah, Sister Catherine and all of the Daughters of Mary of the Immaculate Conception.

We are privileged to work with

Best Wishes & Thank k You On behalf of our more than n 400 businesses & organizations s, we congratulate Hospital fo or Special Care s David Crandall k him on his retirement and thank for his many years of supp port and dedication to the Grea ater New Britain Chamber o of Commerce: New Britain, Be erlin.

Hospital for Special Care where David Crandall’s vision inspired a talented team to engage their communities and lead in their fields.

We wish you the best.

Bill Millerick, President Like us on Facebook. Follow our blog. Join us on LinkedIn.

Visit us at www.newbritainchamber.com

Brand Development and Marketing Communications mason23.com

26 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Monsignor Bojnowski Manor

Our neighborhood will not be the same without you. Wishing you an enjoyable retirement.

024169

From all of us at Monsignor Bojnowski Manor.

024173

1VMBTLJ 4U /FX #SJUBJO t Best wishes to New Britain’s biggest fan...

“Thanks for making New Britain a better place�

Spring Brook

Congratulations to David Crandall for his commitment to excellence at the Hospital for Special Care!

Best of Luck!

At Del Conte, Hyde, Annello & Schuch, P.C. our commitment means a passion for the numbers, pride in the personalized relationships we have with our clients and a steadfast obligation to quality. We work hard to know you and your business and provide proactive tax and financial planning solutions.

024183

Ice & Fuel Service Since 1918

6 Executive Drive, Farmington, CT 06032 | 860.676.9020 | www.dhascpa.com

024062

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New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

A VISION REALIZED

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 27

Support programs thrive despite challenges

Continued from Page 21 building – following through with patients, particularly children, though their lifetime. They built a leadership program.

They are most proud of the Hospital’s renowned Pulmonary Support Group, which has grown to capacity and beyond, despite budget constraints over the years.

Far from just a rehabilitation program, it’s a holistic approach to treating chronic illness – physically, mentally and socially.

“The program has had a dramatic impact on the quality of life for these patients, who now total nearly 300 – the largest in the country,” Votto said. It has alleviated the fear for many of those challenged by COPD, who had become dependent on Hospital emergency rooms as a safety net when their normal doctors

were off, particularly on weekends.

They now depend on each other instead of the ER. It puts people together to share their common needs and concerns, providing a support group that extends throughout the region. “They don’t feel isolated anymore,” said Votto.

Another of the programs focuses on developing leadership among young patients, helping them speaking out for their needs inside and outside the healthcare system.

These programs have survived, and thrived, although the hospital is not paid to manage them.

Crandall is proud that despite several budget crises, and a continuous strain on funding, the Hospital has found a way to keep them going.

More recently, the opening of

the center for the treatment of ALS – also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease – has taken these concepts a step further. Treatments are built around a patient’s family, making it a team effort.

And the way medical services at the Hospital are delivered is changing, too. It became clear that patients with chronic illnesses have a myriad of medical needs on an ongoing basis --from visits with specialists, to physical therapy, to medical tests. All of these must be scheduled, transportation arranged and assistance provided – often by family members. More often than not, this meant multiple trips to the hospital from more than an hour away, depending on the patient’s living situation.

“No one understands how difficult it is for both the patient

and the family to repeat the tasks needed, over and over, to arrange everything to make a medical appointment,” Crandall claims.

“Now, every attempt is made to coordinate these resources so a patient can get as much done as possible in one trip – reducing unnecessary physical and mental strain,” added Votto.

All of these efforts are not without costs. In today’s healthcare environment, reimbursements – the lifeblood of the Hospital dedicated to serving the neediest – are always under attack. “This leaves us no choice but to lobby and advocate,” Crandall says.

“And it’s primarily at the State level where this effort must be targeted.”

“We have had incredible friends over the years – former State Continued on Page 28

Thank you, David      

for the opportunity to provide creative services to Hospital for Special Care.

        

     860.793.0771

28 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

HSC’s Auxiliary: No. 1 partner

A

UXILIARIES HAVE ALWAYS BEEN very important parts of any hospital team.

They are usually made up of a group of dedicated women volunteers with a mission of serving the hospital and its patients by raising money or sometimes working directly with patients.

HSC s auxiliary is very small in number today, but is still the hospital s number one partner. I have had the pleasure of working with this group since I arrived here. Our routine has included me stopping in at their monthly meeting and giving them a summary of what s happening at the hospital type of report.

HSC board members Gerry Devers, right, and James Watson, son of the hospital s founder.

As a group, they are very savvy as to our           luck. Know this, Gerry Devers loves this hospital deeply and would to have a sense about employees and patients and have been very do just about anything for the patients here. She has worked very helpful to me during my administration. If a patient needs or reclosely with me to make sure that I knew what the auxiliary would               like to do, and would always listen to my thoughts. She has been a They have always considered my requests, and over time have been long-standing board member of the hospital, and took on the projmajor contributors to building projects and have bought patient ect of developing a new type of gift shop, bringing it into the new equipment following these discussions. age of what other hospitals had in this regard. Not only that, she There are so many auxilians who have been instrumental in helphas continued to develop and manage this gift shop and has avering with the hospital s success. The one that has been a constant aged the equivalent of a full-time employee over the past twenty for me during most of my time is Gerry Devers. You know she is              from Brooklyn, New York, the minute you meet her. If you differ in testing ideas, and making sure that we kept this hospital going with her on something of importance to her, then I would say good in the right direction.

‘CT can

Continued from Page 27 Senator Edith Prague understands what we do, and what we mean to healthcare in Connecticut.”

This critical area is only going to get harder to deal with. “All of our costs – gas, food – are going up.

We control expenses better than most. Our average expenses over the past year have gone up five percent, versus 10 to 12 percent at most hospitals.

“The problem is that most of those at the State level forget the original deal – which the State can count on the Hospital to take care of these special patients.”

Crandall points out that most of the patients would be in local intensive care units at three times the cost without Hospital for Special Care. That includes 100 patients on respirators at the

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A VISION REALIZED

Sunday, June 24, 2012 | 29

count on us for very specialized care’

HSC. The financial crises tend to occur about every seven years. The last was in 2003.

“But the country doesn’t fall apart – it’s got to get better,” Votto says.

“And the Hospital’s never had enough money to be wasteful,” Crandall says.

It was a big change for the Hospital in 1995 when the State “took away the ability care for the easier patients” by beginning to pay a daily rate instead of the actual costs.

“We can’t keep on doing more for less,” he said.

Even technology now being mandated adds additional strains to the budget. “There’s no savings and no better care coming from electronic medical records.”

Votto and Crandall talk about

the admissions meetings to deter- person to live more like home. mine which patients are appropri- The idea would be for patients ate candidates and those who are to go from a local hospital ICU accepted. It’s not just the patients, to HSC to assisted living nearby, either. But it’s the success stories with help onsite or moments that put smiles on Votto’s and away.” Crandall suggests.

Crandall’s faces.

But, everything It’s the physical has to stand therapist, now alone economi‘We’ve never fallen working at the cally. into ‘‘easy,’’. .. It’s our Hospital “who The Hospital hospital -- for the wasn’t supposed tried to advance to survive” after holistic meditoughest cases.’ being beaten cine in 2000, --David Crandall with a pipe with a standin 1998. It’s alone facility the victim of a downtown, “but diving accident in Mexico who is the stars didn’t align,” Crandall now a medical student. says. Combining chiropractic, And, so now - what are the Pilates, massage and acupuncdreams for the Hospital’s future? ture, among other integrated and “We want to extend the assisted complementary therapies, didn’t living model, providing help not work out due to “bad timing and too far away, but allowing each a bad location.” It did have prom-

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Salutes DAVID CRANDALL and the Hospital for Special Care for making dreams a reality.

ise. A few years later, in a different place, it would have worked out, he thinks.

Votto and Crandall agree that smaller and more intense programs are in the Hospital’s future.

Perhaps 10-to-15-bed units. The most recent opening of The Autism Center at HSC, now an outpatient clinic, will likely lead to an inpatient facility down the road.

Other neuromuscular diseases could also be on the horizon.

Sickle-cell anemia and HIV-related disorders are diseases that the Hospital might see as target areas “We’ve never fallen into ‘easy,’ “says Crandall. That means no sports medicine programs, no weight-loss operations. It’s our Hospital for the toughest cases.

And it’s a gift that keeps on giving - to Connecticut, and to the region.

30 | Sunday, June 24, 2012

A VISION REALIZED

New Britain Herald | www.NewBritainHerald.com

Support groups make a big difference wheelchair basketball with the Connecticut Spokebenders, wheelchair soccer with the Chargers, weightlifting, skiing, and an annual summer camp experience. I am so proud to say that HSC’s Adaptive Sports Programs’ athletes have represented the United States at the international level on world championship and Paralympic teams, and also have achieved national records.

We’re a pretty different hospital, wouldn’t you say? This is a really interesting place. It’s also a hospital where the board members are not “in name only,� but ones who ask the right questions.

They get very involved - on all levels. That’s good. This has contributed to our significant success.

Continued on Page 31

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Continued from Page 17 the years, we have also developed beneficial support groups.

Through participation in our Adaptive Sports Programs, individuals are offered the opportunity to set personal goals and achieve greater levels of independence. Our adaptive sports and fitness programs, both competitive and recreational, teach life skills, promote confidence, build relationships and develop leadership skills. In addition, friendships are cultivated, accomplishments are recognized, and individuals strive to levels they never thought they could achieve.

As a result of annual fundraising events, registration is offered free-of-charge to all participants.

Individuals participate, train and may compete in racing, swimming, table tennis, track & field,

Business partners: Key part of our success

B

USINESS PARTNERS play a very important part in any hospital. I tried to instill in my management team to give local businesses our contract if they could provide the project or service. I believe we have done a great job in that regard.

I always felt that if you expect the communityÂ’s support, then you should do the same in giving back to the community.

During the rebuilding of our physical plants, we developed and cultivated relationships that have now become part of our hospital family.

Downes Construction Company has overseen all construction projects at the hospital. Kaestle Boos Associates has been our architectural group. These two companies have sat in on all discussions about potential new programs since the early nineties. Probably one or two projects come to fruition from numerous discussions. Principals from these two companies attend those many meet-

ings, and without getting paid, unless we actually build something. That is a lot of time on their part. Input from the two companies has at times stopped a disaster from happening. My working with them and valuing their thoughts and opinions continued to impress upon me the need to have as many advisors as possible because of the complexity of this business.

When a project does happen, these two companies ensure that enough bids are solicited for each part of the construction. They each keep in mind our desire to work with local companies.

That has happened with great success for the hospital.

I have always appreciated this wonderful relationship with Downes Construction and Kaestle Boos Architects. They are a key part of my personal success, and the hospitalÂ’s wonderful physical development.

C ongratulations! Good Luck David! from

Congratulations and Good Luck from All of Us at

DISTINCTIVE DIRECTORIES /Â…i 6>Â?Â?iĂž œœŽ U /Â…i 7iĂƒĂŒ >Ă€ĂŒvÂœĂ€` œœŽ /Â…i Â?>ĂƒĂŒÂœÂ˜LÕÀÞ œœŽ U /Â…i -Â…ÂœĂ€iÂ?ˆ˜i œœŽ

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We wish to congratulate David on his outstanding

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Congratulations and Best Wishes David Crandall from your friends at

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Anne Ruwet and all of your friends at CCARC wish you the very best and thank you for all you have done for HSC and the New Britain Community!

leadership and

David Crandall It was an honor to work with you!

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Congratulates David Crandall and The Hospital for Special Care

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A VISION REALIZED

The hospital of tomorrow

Groundbreaking for The Maximilian E. and Marion O. Hoffman Outpatient Center is set for Spring 2013.

M

AKING A PERSONAL gift to Hospital for Special Care is an act of selfless generosity. There are many ways to make a tax-deductible gift to the Hospital

during one’s lifetime or after. We encourage you to consult with your attorney, accountant or other financial advisor when considering a gift that may have substantial impact on your finances or estate.

You may contact the Hospital for Special Care Foundation for a confidential discussion at your convenience. Please call (860) 832-6257.

‘The most important people of all – our patients’ Continued from page 30 What HSC is today is the result of a lot of hard work accomplished by exceptional teams of devoted employees. It took vision, strategic planning, and a lot of dedicated people, within the hospital and from the community, to make this hospital the Hospital for Special Care that it is today. From patient care, to research and education, community outreach is one of HSC’s main goals. All of the work we do at HSC is for the benefit of the community. HSC sponsors many support groups for our patients, their families, and the community. These support groups provide a chance for people to come together for education and to provide each other with the emotional support and guidance needed when facing one’s own illness, or the illness of a loved one.

Our commitment to providing quality programs and services will always come first, and members of our boards of directors share that commitment. With that focus on quality in mind, I would like to thank Elizabeth (Betty) K. Fumiatti,

Chair of Center of Special Care, Inc.; Carl R. Ficks, Jr., Esq. Chair, Hospital for Special Care; Richard E. Feitel, Chair of our Hospital for Special Care Charitable Foundation; and David J. Kelly, Chair of HSC Community Services, Inc. for their continued support and valuable combination of integrity, counsel and leadership.

Over the years, HSC has cared for those in our community who are often forgotten, or slighted by the healthcare system: the toughest cases, those with complex physical and medical challenges. I know we will continue to work at identifying opportunities to serve these individuals at all levels of our continuum.

After reading this article, I hope you understand that my experiences at this hospital HAS had a profound effect on me, and that over that time, many people changed me into what I became. Each of these events in this article, each of the people mentioned, helped me decide how I would take on this very demanding role and hopefully be the kind of person who enriches lives and honors the mission

and value statements of this wonderful hospital. I would like to acknowledge two hospital friends who have helped me on a regular basis.

Maria Pietrantuono is someone who graduated with me from New Britain High School, and New Britain General Hospital School of Nursing. We first worked together on the Critical Care Unit at the New Britain General Hospital. I would call her over the years when she worked in New York City to ask her advice, and she always made fun of me for staying at this hospital in New Britain.

One day, I offered her a position here and was surprised when she said yes. She eventually became responsible for all the clinical areas of the hospital, and during those years remained a close confidant, making sure I did not make mistakes, but supporting me when I did. She has continued to be that kind of friend. I am very lucky.

Susan Gordon Gates is another person who has protected me publicly and privately in her many roles at the hospital.

She knows me well, and always steers me in the appropriate direction whenever needed. She knows my quirks and probably swears quietly, but in the end helped me become a better President by teaching me the world of public relations, better than anyone else. These two employees are very dear to me, and they have made this last project about me a little easier to get through.

Thanks to all of you - my fellow employees, board members, corporators, volunteers, auxilians, advisors, donors and friends for the important role you play in achieving successes for the most important people of all – our patients.

Continue to build on the success of our past in the years to come…

I am proud of the fact that our leadership never lost sight of our mission and vision. We continue to remain focused on what we are here for, and that is to improve the quality of lives of those entrusted to us by their loved ones.

I am a New Britain kid, and a hospital kid – and I will forever be.

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Thank you, David Crandall, for your leadership, vision and contributions to our community.