Barbara E. Grant, president and chief executive officer of MIHCS, made this announcement and said, “The residents of Lawrence have benefited in countless ways from Mr. McManus’ extraordinary vision and leadership. The Pilgrimage of Love Award recognizes his many contributions to the overall good health of our community and his special commitment to elders.”
Mr. McManus is a well-known figure in Greater Lawrence, and after more than three decades, will be retiring in September from his pivotal role as Chief Executive Officer of Lawrence General Hospital. There have been many milestones in his illustrious career marked by his legendary calm in crisis, and his tireless commitment to community, the sick and the elderly.
Over the years, Mr. McManus has widely been credited for steering the hospital through times of financial uncertainty to the position of good financial health the organization enjoys today. Recent highlights of his career include the hospital’s designation as a Level III Trauma Center, and the opening of $20 million state-of-the-art Emergency Center in May, 2006. This project was made possible through a successful $8.5 million capital campaign.
The opening of the Emergency Center also cemented the relationship between Lawrence General Hospital and Mary Immaculate Health/Care Services (MIHCS). On the day of the new Emergency Center’s opening, the MI Nursing/Restorative Center flooded, forcing the evacuation of 244 frail elders. Learning of the crisis, Mr. McManus graciously offered the hospital’s former emergency department as a temporary holding facility for the MI residents. He directed that the new facility be opened ahead of schedule that day in order to accommodate MI’s emergency needs. This generous offer significantly contributed to the success of the evacuation and to the peace of mind of residents, their families and the MI staff.
The St. Marguerite d’Youville Pilgrimage of Love Award honors a person or organization that leads the way in the journey of love and service, and gives far more to the community than they receive. The award is named for the founder of the Grey Nuns, Marguerite d’Youville.
The Evening of Sharing and Caring is made possible through the generous support of members of the community including Unidine Corporation as Presenting Sponsor and Thorbahn as an Event Sponsor. For sponsorship opportunities, tickets or more information about the Evening of Sharing and Caring, please contact Karen Sullivan or Pat Salach by calling 978-685-6321. |