CommonSpirit St. Elizabeth Hospital in Fort Morgan, Colorado, officially inaugurated its new Chemotherapy and Infusion Center on September 10, 2023. The event, which featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, was attended by local officials and community members, including representatives from the Fort Morgan Chamber of Commerce.
Hospital President and Chief Nursing Officer John Swanhorst addressed the attendees, emphasizing the center’s commitment to providing accessible cancer care. He introduced Chaplain Sandra Winn, who offered a blessing, expressing hopes that the center would be a place filled with “healing hands, kind hearts, and the presence of peace, hope, and miracles.” Winn, who regularly visits the center to support patients, highlighted the importance of emotional care during treatment.
The new center, designed to enhance patient comfort, features spacious treatment bays filled with natural light and updated medical equipment. Sheila Erasmus, the hospital’s newly appointed dedicated Oncology Nurse Practitioner, will lead the infusion therapies and cancer care initiatives in the region. Her expertise aims to ensure that patients receive high-quality care without needing to travel long distances.
Swanhorst acknowledged the efforts of operational leaders, clinical staff, and the hospital’s Chief Financial Officer in bringing the center to fruition. He stated, “We’re not here just for patients that are CommonSpirit patients. We’re here for any patient in this region that we can help support. There’s no reason patients should have to travel out of town to get chemo or biologic treatments.”
Local business leaders also recognized the significance of the new facility. Leticia Morales, Executive Director of the Fort Morgan Area Chamber of Commerce, remarked, “This new chemotherapy and infusion center is a great resource for Fort Morgan. It allows patients to stay in town for treatment, close to their families and support systems. We’re happy to be part of this celebration.”
According to CommonSpirit Health, the center provides year-round access to chemotherapy and infusion services in a stress-free environment. Treatments are managed by registered nurses specializing in intravenous and injectable therapies, with support from physicians, dietitians, and other specialists. Services include chemotherapy, supportive medications, IV therapies for chronic conditions, and assistance with insurance coordination.
Following the ceremony, attendees were invited to tour the facility, meet the care team, and enjoy refreshments. Swanhorst encouraged questions from guests, fostering an atmosphere of engagement and community involvement in the hospital’s ongoing developments.
CommonSpirit St. Elizabeth Hospital is located at 1000 Lincoln St. in Fort Morgan. For more information about the new Chemotherapy and Infusion Center and other services, visit their website.
