News

Windber Hospice Receives Horse Show Donation

The Greater Johnstown Saddle Club & Golden Star Horse Farm presented a check in the amount of $15,000 to Windber Hospice from their 16th Annual Benefit Horse Show that was held on August 19 and 20 at the Greater Johnstown Saddle Club in Salix

Denny Hutchinson, Event Chairperson, said, “We had another wonderful event this year. We couldn’t do it without the efforts and dedication of our volunteers, the good folks who turned out, and the loyal riders who come every year – rain or shine – to support this great cause!”

More than 200 participants patronized the yearly event, which included trick and Roman riding; gaming and fun classes; a flag ceremony; and showmanship, halter, and performance classes.

“We greatly appreciate the ongoing support and commitment of the Horse Show Committee, the Johnstown Saddle Club, Golden Star Horse Farm, and the residents of our community. This support has enabled Windber Hospice the opportunity to continue growth in our holistic philosophy with a focus on integrative therapies including therapeutic music, massage therapy, flower essences, and reflection photos. We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of the committee who share our vision in providing quality end-of-life care to those with a life-limiting illness,” said Kristie Berkebile, Windber Home Health and Hospice Director.

The group has raised a total of $258,000 for Windber Hospice throughout the past 16 years. This year’s donation will support new patient televisions in Windber Hospice, as well as the music therapy program.

Next year’s show will be held on August 18 and 19.

Pictured Left to Right: Tom Kurtz, Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber (CSSMCW) President; Denny Hutchinson, Event Chairperson; Niomie Collins; Shirley Beynon; Kristie Berkebile, Windber Home Health and Hospice Director; Don Smith; and Jessica Klosky, Windber Hospice Volunteer Coordinator.

Founded in 1906, Chan Soon-Shiong Medical Center at Windber (CSSMCW) is an independent, non-profit acute care hospital in northern Somerset County, bordering Cambria County. The 54-bed hospital shares a campus and collaborates with Chan Soon-Shiong Institute of Molecular Medicine at Windber (CSSIMMW), a private, non-profit biomedical research center. With more than 450 employees, CSSMCW is the fourth largest employer in Somerset County. CSSMCW’s mission is to provide excellence in personalized, quality health care services through innovation, research and education in response to community needs. For more information visit www.windbercare.org.