Kenmore Mercy Hospital is celebrating its 68th anniversary by honoring the contributions of its founding leaders and the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas.

A heritage exhibit highlighting the milestones of the sisters and the suburban hospital was dedicated Oct. 7 as part of the celebration. The exhibit represents a shared legacy of ministry dating back two centuries.

"It's very moving  because it is mercy that began it." said Sister Mary Ann Schimscheiner, RSM, who served as CEO from 1981 to 1999.

Located on the second floor, the display spans across the rotunda outside the hospital's chapel.

There a monitor for a digitally interactive component that includes interviews with key players in the hospital history, as well as additional photos and newspaper clippings showing the progressive growth of Kenmore Mercy.
"To me it's not just a wall. We have our artifacts, but we also have an interactive display. It has interviews with a number of people who have been involved in the history, making of this hospital." said Walt Ludwig, president of Kenmore Mercy Hospital.

"There was a need for this institution," said Sister Mary Ann. "It was built, opened and 68 years later we're still here."

In its first year of operation, Kenmore Mercy Hospital delivered 821 babies and treated 3,450 patients.

Today, as part of Catholic Health, it is a 184-bed, not-for-profit hospital that is nationally recognized for its safety ratings, nursing excellence and specialty care.

Last year, nearly 8,000 patients were admitted and more than 37,800 were treated at the hospital's emergency department.

The hospital is grateful to all the people, past and present, who helped shape its future and played a role in carrying out the mission of Catherine McAuley and the Sisters of Mercy for generations of patients.

"All of the tremendous accomplishments at Kenmore Mercy Hospital would not have been possible without the vision of those who have come before us," said Ludwig.

"The work goes on through the wonderful laity who carry on the mission." said Sister Mary Ann.

The Kenneth L. and Katherine G. Koessler Family Foundation, provided a gift to make the heritage exhibit possible.