Abilene Psychiatric Center Expands
By Christopher J. Kearney, Administrator
Note to our readers: This article was to appear in last week’s column, but due to a glitch (let’s blame the computer), the wrong article was submitted. My apologies to our readers and Chris—Kermit.
On January 25th more than 100 people, including County Commissioner Stan Egger and Representative Bob Hunter, witnessed the most significant event in the short history of Abilene Psychiatric Center--an event that translates into expanded physical capacity and consequently greater ability to provide better treatment. The event was the official opening of our newly reconstructed East Wing that has increased Abilene Psychiatric Center’s bed capacity more than 40% from 28 to 48 beds.
“This is most significant for Abilene Psychiatric Center and our community,” said Jerry Kearney, CEO. “It is an unfortunate reality that with a previous limit of 28 beds, we found ourselves more and more often in the position of having to turn people away because we were consistently running at full capacity. With an additional 20 beds, that phenomenon should no longer be an issue.”
Indeed, since the opening of the new wing, the issue is not bed capacity, but the capacity of our nursing and clinical staff. Abilene Psychiatric Center is currently looking for good nurses and good people with the expertise, desire, and attitude to provide the top notch care our patients have come to expect. If interested in working for this quality and growing organization, contact Human Resources at (325) 698-6600 ext. 111.
One of the more poignant moments of the celebration was the dedication of the East Wing to the person most directly responsible for its materialization – Dr. Jesse Fletcher. Dr. Fletcher served for two terms, 2003 and 2004, as our Chairman of the Board. But even after stepping down from that role in 2005, Dr. Fletcher remained and remains intimately part of the organization. He shared our vision of an expanded facility and worked exceedingly hard to pull together all of the agencies who collectively made it a reality. In recognition of his efforts, the East Wing has been ceremoniously named the Fletcher Wing. Dr. Fletcher was unable to attend the ceremony, but his wife Dorothy accepted the honor on his behalf. She expressed her belief that no one was more worthy than Dr. Fletcher. We agree.
The Fletcher Wing is reflective of the man himself. Colorful. Bright. Organized. Serene. But with a distinct sense of purpose. Like being in the presence of Dr. Fletcher, just walking on the unit makes one feel instantly comfortable and calm. It’s just something about the place. Maybe it’s the décor, the plants, the colors. Maybe it’s the way the unit is organized. Maybe it’s that the spirit of Dr. Fletcher has permeated the surroundings. Whatever it is, the Fletcher Wing is a true accomplishment.
Thanks again, Dr. Fletcher. You are a remarkable person.
I would further like to take this opportunity to publicly acknowledge those others who worked so hard to turn our expansion from idea into reality. Vinny Johnston, APC’s Director of Facility Management. Jeff Soto and Felipe Herrara, APC’s Facilities Department. All of our vendors, from Bevill’s Plumbing, to INCA, to Batjer Heating and Air, and all of those in between. In respect for anonymity, I simply thank those community foundations that have both assisted and continue to assist this great organization. Their support has been critical to our success. In addition, I thank the Board of Directors and the great staff of Abilene Psychiatric Center for their continued hard work and dedication. To our psychiatrists, Dr. Miller, Dr. Singh, Dr. Vidal, and Dr. Kahsyap - many heartfelt thanks. We love you guys!
Thanks to these people, 2006 will be the greatest year for Abilene Psychiatric Center. Look ahead to additional services and programs to better meet your needs and the needs of our community. At Abilene Psychiatric Center, the Change is Truly Remarkable!
Christopher Kearney is the Administrator of the Abilene Psychiatric Center. Mental Health Matters is sponsored by the Mental Health Association, phone (325) 673-2300, e-mail mhaa@bitstreet.com. Need help? Call the Hope Line (325) 677-7773.