This is my town; I deserve a hospital

When the state review board said “no” to Centegra Health System’s application for a Huntley hospital, I took it personally. After all, I live in Huntley. I need this hospital. So do my neighbors in Sun City. So does my family.

One particular scene keeps replaying in my mind. My wife once needed hospital care in the middle of the night. Where we live, the nearest hospital is not close at all. I was deeply worried that night and am concerned to this day. At our age, you never know when you’re going to need medical attention.

Right now, hospital care is too far away for my comfort.

I’ve been in the agricultural business my whole life. I grew up on a farm and over the years, I’ve seen many friends who needed immediate medical attention but because they were in rural communities did not have the necessary access.

Centegra is proposing to bring that much-needed health care access to our community and I don’t understand why it was denied.

I am disappointed that the state turned down a reliable and locally based health care system that only wants to help my neighbors, my family and me. I want the board to remember us the next time it considers Centegra Hospital-Huntley. I want the board to carefully review Centegra’s proposal and its strategic plans for our community. This is my community and I deserve this hospital, don’t you think?

Orion Samuelson

Business/Agriculture broadcaster, WGN

Huntley