YORK — York Hospital President Jud Knox and hospital board Vice Chairman Ala Reid were joined May 5 by hospital leaders, board of trustees as well as pediatric and obstetrical providers, Birthing and Family Care nurses, and dozens of local families to sign a central beam for the new Birthing and Family Care Center being constructed within the Strater Wing of York Hospital.

When construction is finished at the end of the year, marking the completion of a two-year long fundraising effort, the new birthing center will include updated labor, delivery and recovery rooms, private newborn nursery rooms, a family garden room, a pediatric telemedicine room and a state-of-the art design to enhance the birthing experience.

Knox said to the more than 120 guests, “Dear Friends, it takes a village to raise a child. Join with me to celebrate and thank that village, that community, for making this ‘miracle’ dream come true. We, York Hospital, belong to you, the community, and we are honored, grateful and proud to be part of raising children and supporting parents.”

Reid, vice-chairman of the York Hospital Board of Trustees, thanked the many guests for being part of this historical occasion. “Many years in the future, your signature and contribution to Miracles will still be ingrained within the walls of this beautiful community birthing center. This is a true symbol of the meaning of your support – like that of the beam – the birthing center would not be successful and strong without all of you.”

“With passionate gratitude,” said Knox, “we thank the many folks who supported raising $1.5 million, the Baldwin Foundation – Diana Baldwin Dunnan, the board, the hospital staff and the entire community.”

The hospital’s Birthing and Family Care Center was last renovated in 1986.