Mercy Auxiliary Caring Through Service
History
When the Sisters of Mercy came to Cedar Rapids, they had nothing but a spirit of dedication that in 1900 led them to open Mercy Hospital - known today as Mercy Medical Center.
The two-story residency located at Third Avenue and Sixth Street consisted of four private rooms, a surgery room and beds for the three Sisters who were the hospital staff. The first patient was hospitalized for 16 days after a cataract operation; her total bill was $17.40.
The Mercy Auxiliary was founded on February 21, 1923. The group quickly grew from 13 members to over 500 by July of that year. The purpose of the initial group was "to assist Mercy Hospital in any charitable work that may arise," which is not too different from the Auxiliary's general goal today, "to promote and advance the welfare of Mercy Medical Center," although, the means of achieving the goal have changed.
Fund-Raisers
Service Projects
Special Events
Membership
