A grandfather's legacy; a granddaughter's need
In 1975, Elizabethtown had one stoplight. That’s when John Duplessis and his wife, Kitty, moved here from North Carolina. John wanted to be involved in the community, so he joined the board of the tiny hospital.
“Looking back, he would have no clue the impact Baptist Health Hardin would have on his first granddaughter — me — and how it’s growing,” says Elizabeth.
By 2016, Elizabeth had married Jason Waters and the two were expecting their first son, Henry. Henry was born about four weeks early and needed to stay in the NICU while his lungs developed. Then a similar experience happened with the couple’s second son, Hudson. “We thought we were going to have two perfectly healthy boys …” says Jason. “When we didn’t, we could have treatment and care locally.”
Because of people like John Duplessis, Baptist Health Hardin has evolved over the years and now offers advanced care, including a level 2 NICU and innovative technology, not often seen at a regional hospital.
“The NICU at Baptist Health Hardin was like God’s hands on my babies,” says Elizabeth. “It was calming to know we were just a couple steps apart; no highway between us.”
Inspired by their personal interaction and John’s legacy with the hospital, Elizabeth and Jason serve on hospital boards and give generously to the foundation. “My grandfather instilled faith and philanthropy in his five kids and 20 grandkids,” says Elizabeth.
Recently, Jason and Elizabeth honored John and Kitty with the dedication of the new chapel. “With it’s beautiful blue stained glass and the Duplessis name, I will take pride knowing Jason and I have given a place of peace and comfort for patients and their families,” says Elizabeth.
Elizabeth believes she’ll always be indebted to the hospital. “We’ll never be on top,” she says. “Baptist Health Hardin means the world to us. We want to give back to keep it strong.” When people like Elizabeth and Jason carry on the tradition of giving and receiving, the community’s health will continue to thrive.
“Please consider helping build and invest in the local hospital and our community. Baptist Health Hardin was there when we needed them most. You never know what the world is going to throw at you, but there’s peace of mind knowing Baptist Health Hardin is right there.”
The Dawn of a Healthier Tomorrow
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