How Philanthropy strengthens access to advanced surgical care in Cowlitz County

PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center has long served as a trusted anchor of care for families across Cowlitz County. As healthcare needs evolve and the community continues to grow, maintaining access to advanced, high-quality surgical services is essential. That work is made possible through strong partnerships with local organizations that believe in building a healthier future together. Among these partners, the Health Care Foundation stands out as a generous supporter whose commitment has spanned more than four decades.

Most recently, the Foundation awarded a $55,048 grant to PeaceHealth St. John Medical Center. This gift will advance two important technology upgrades that expand the hospital’s capacity to deliver exceptional surgical care close to home. A portion of the grant will help fund an additional robotic endoscope, a specialized tool that allows surgeons to reach areas standard scopes cannot. 

This advancement improves early tumor detection, enhances diagnostic precision, and strengthens monitoring for patients managing complex or chronic conditions. With increased access to robotic-assisted procedures, fewer patients will face delays in scheduling or need to travel outside the region for essential care.

The Foundation’s gift will also support the purchase of a bipolar sealer system used in orthopedic surgery. This tool reduces blood loss during joint replacement revision procedures, resulting in fewer complications, less need for transfusions, and better overall recovery experiences. Investments like these ensure patients receive excellent, evidence-based care while remaining in the comfort of their own community.

The Health Care Foundation’s commitment to community health stretches back to 1984, when it was founded to continue local investment in the Monticello Medical Center. Since then, the Foundation has distributed more than $13 million to strengthen nonprofit healthcare services throughout Cowlitz County. Their long-standing partnership with PeaceHealth reflects a shared belief that strong, healthy communities are built by people and organizations that show up for one another year after year.

“This partnership continues a long tradition of caring for our neighbors together,” said Amy Leggio, Executive Director of the PeaceHealth St. John Foundation. “We are deeply thankful to the Health Care Foundation for their partnership and commitment to improving the health of our community. Their generosity helps us bring leading edge technology to Cowlitz County so our patients can receive exceptional care right here at home.”

As PeaceHealth continues to meet the growing needs of our region, philanthropy and community partnerships strengthen our mission of hope, healing and peace. Because of partners like the Health Care Foundation, families in Cowlitz County can face illness with hope and confidence, knowing compassionate care is available when they need it most.

When our community comes together in this way, healing reaches further and touches more lives now and for generations to come.

If you would like to join us in strengthening healthcare close to home, we warmly welcome your partnership in philanthropy.