Heart of the Rockies Regional Medical Center (HRRMC) Foundation’s 20th Annual Jewel Ball on Thursday, October 1st raised over $100,000 to equip HRRMC’s new Infusion/Oncology space, scheduled to open mid-year in 2027. Over 180 people attended the “Secret Garden” event, which was held at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort Pavilion.
The evening included a social hour and silent auction along with a raffle hosted by Rotary Club of Salida, featuring a gold and emerald pendant donated by John and Donna Rhoads. After a buffet dinner, Ken Leisher was inducted into the HRRMC Hall of Fame posthumously. Ken was HRRMC’s CEO from 2006 to 2013 and was instrumental in the transition from the previous hospital building on First Street, now the Touber Building, to the new hospital located at 1000 Rush Drive. Ken also started HRRMC Oncology as a hospital department.
Pat Leisher and her son, Tom, accepted the award in honor of Ken. Pat was also given an award inscribed with First Lady of HRRMC, as she was very engaged at HRRMC events and managed the Gift Shop for several years.
Following the Hall of Fame presentation, Jim Wilson led the Live Auction, which added to the donations from sponsorships, underwriters, and ticket purchases.
HRRMC Foundation is a 501c3 established in 1986 to support the medical center with capital facilities projects, equipment, and patient services. Past Jewel Balls have helped to fund the Delnay Guest House, Robotic Surgery, and the Mary Ann Banach Wound Care Center ,scheduled to open mid-year 2027.
For more information about the HRRMC Foundation or to make a donation, please contact Lezlie Burkley, Executive Director at 719-530-2218.
