AUSTIN, Texas- (July 23, 2009) - University Medical Center Brackenridge, a member of the Seton Family of Hospitals, today celebrated its 125-year history with the announcement of it's 'A History Forward' project, an aggressive effort to record recollections of the past and hopes for the future of this Central Texas home of medical innovation and research.
Community leaders including past and present mayors, City Council members, and Travis County Healthcare District representatives, joined UMC Brackenridge's doctors and nurses, along with Seton leaders at Austin City Hall to commemorate the anniversary.
'It's this blend of past and future, from the storied history of Brackenridge Hospital to the evolution of University Medical Center Brackenridge as a pioneer in new treatments for diseases and injuries, that makes this such an important occasion,'said Charles Barnett, FACHE, president and CEO, Seton Family of Hospitals.
UMC Brackenridge owns many medical firsts in Central Texas, including the first ambulance, first open heart surgery, and anticipated first adult Level I Trauma Center. Dell Children's Medical Center is also expected to be officially designated as the region's first pediatric Level I Trauma Center.
'Under our ownership, the Travis County Healthcare District strives to ensure UMC Brackenridge remains a vital community asset that sets the bar for quality, affordable healthcare. Under the stewardship of the District and Seton Family of Hospitals, we will ensure 'Brack'always lives up to its illustrious legacy,'said District Chairperson Dr. Tom Coopwood.
That legacy includes pivotal moments in the lives of countless patients, families and caregivers from Central Texas and around the country. During the Charles Whitman shootings in 1966, dozens of patients arrived at UMC Brackenridge in a short time span, an incident that vaulted Brackenridge Hospital into the national spotlight, including recognition as a major innovator in the nation's delivery of emergency medical care.
One physician who triaged Whitman's victims, Dr. Joe Reneau, recorded his story as part of 'A History Forward,' the oral history project, which began today as part of the celebration. He joined UMC Brackenridge's ED Director Dr. Christopher Ziebell as they reflected on the past and future of the medical center.
All those whose lives have been touched by UMC Brackenridge are invited to participate in 'A History Forward'and record their story with Seton's archivist. More details, including recording dates and locations, can be found at www.umcb125.com. 'A History Forward' is sponsored by KUT Radio 90.5 FM and News Radio 590 AM KLBJ. After cataloging all entries, the oral histories will reside in the Seton Family of Hospitals archives, and copies will be sent to the Daughters of Charity archives in St. Louis, Missouri, and other appropriate national collections. Selected stories will be posted on www.umcb125.com and aired on News Radio 590 AM KLBJ.
Seton is proud to have four hospitals – the only hospitals in Central Texas - that have earned the