Gift Received in Memory of Marla Cushman

Pictured Left to Right: Kelly Jany, CNO; Scott and Chris Gross, Eric Hess, Michele Prange, Paige Hess, Carissa Hess, Mary Rosendohl, Henry Hess, Jim Cushman, Amy Eggeymer, Darrel Ehlers, Amy Ehlers, Maribeth Golding, Discharge Planner and Swing Bed Coordinator; Megan Buch, Occupational Therapist.

Memorial Hospital recently dedicated a new set of permanently installed parallel bars in the Medical-Surgical Department therapy room, made possible through a memorial contribution from the family of former Memorial Hospital nurse and nurse manager Marla Cushman. Family members and many of Marla’s friends gathered with Memorial Hospital staff on October 17 to commemorate the dedication and celebrate her lasting impact on the hospital and community.

Marla devoted nearly 40 years of service to Memorial Hospital before retiring in 2015. During her distinguished career, she served as the Medical-Surgical Nurse Manager and was recognized as the first recipient of the Newmark Award, honoring employees who make exceptional contributions to patient care.

Following Marla’s passing in May 2024, her family made a memorial donation to Memorial Hospital with the hope that it would be used in a way that would directly benefit patients. Given Marla’s long history of service and leadership within the Medical-Surgical Department, hospital leaders felt it was fitting that the gift support rehabilitation services for patients receiving care on the unit.

After discussions between the Therapy Department and Medical-Surgical nursing staff, a decision was made to purchase and permanently install a set of parallel bars in the unit’s therapy room. The equipment will provide a valuable resource for patients receiving rehabilitation services, helping them regain strength, balance, and mobility in a safe environment.

“It was so nice seeing such a great showing of Marla’s friends and family,” said Amy Eggemeyer, Nurse Manager Care Coordinator. “It just goes to show how important Marla was to them. Marla was such a kind, thoughtful person and a great nurse, too. She meant a lot not only to Memorial Hospital, but to our entire community.”

The dedication serves as a lasting tribute to Marla’s commitment to caring for others. Through her family’s generosity, the parallel bars will continue to support patients on their road to recovery for years to come, carrying forward the spirit of compassion and service that defined her nursing career. “Memorial Hospital is grateful to the Cushman family for this meaningful gift,” said Eggemeyer. “Every patient who benefits from this equipment will be part of Marla’s legacy.”