The Pana Community Hospital Foundation is celebrating a successful year of fundraising and already on their way towards their goals for next year.  Renovations to the hospital’s second floor, rooms for sleep studies, and plenty of other outcomes highlight the work done in 2025.  These projects were possible thanks in large part to the Foundation’s efforts to bring in the funds needed.  The overall goal is to further support Pana Community Hospital’s work in improving patient outcomes. 

Melissa Rybolt is the Executive Director of the Pana Community Hospital Foundation.  She says a year-end appeal and other campaigns at the start of 2026 will go towards a new 3D mammography machine.

Rybolt says the machine costs around $475k, and the Foundation has pledged $125k.  As for how they will raise the funds, their first campaign involves a pecan sale. 

Another fundraising plan is something the Pana Community Hospital Foundation has done before: the Memorial Angel Tree.  It’s a way those interested can pay tribute to loved ones they have lost while also helping the Foundation raise funds. 

The Foundation’s goals for 2026 go well beyond just raising money.  They want to further educate the community on what they do and how people can help. 

More information on the Pana Community Hospital Foundation is available on the hospital’s website, www.panahospital.com, or by calling (217) 562-6340. 

Melissa Rybolt appeared as a guest on the WTIM Pana Morning Show.