Good Samaritan receives $12.6 million, largest gift to date, for women’s health advancements

KEARNEY-CHI Health Good Samaritan Foundation has received its largest single gift to date, $12.6 million, dedicated to advancing women's health in the region. A private foundation recently contributed to the expansion and renovation of the hospital's Maternity Center and Interventional Cardiology Suites.

Cardiovascular disease, the leading cause of death in women including during pregnancy and postpartum, often goes underdiagnosed and undertreated. Women experience atypical symptoms and differences in disease presentation requiring precise, real-time diagnosis and intervention, which only a fully-equipped cardiac cath lab can provide.

“Our generous donor, in keeping with our own mission, believes in the important role women's health plays in healthy families and communities,” says Cindi Richter, director, Good Samaritan Foundation. “This incredible gift will ensure the best care for new mothers in our community and the unique heart care needs of all the women in our lives.”

Starting in spring 2026, a construction project will completely renovate the hospital's Maternity Center. The redesigned space will include 11 large birthing suites with partner sleeping areas and a whirlpool bath, as well as additional visitor amenities like a comfortable family waiting area and refreshment center. Also included is a new private entrance and state-of-the-art surgical suite. The hospital’s current Maternity Center will remain open and fully-functional during the expansion.

“Families will fall in love with the new look and coziness of our larger space. We’ll have everything for an ideal birth experience,” says Anne Kraus, director, Maternity Center. “This, combined with our expert staff and the region’s only Advanced Level II NICU, is everything you’ve come to expect from the community's trusted health partner.”

The hospital's interventional cardiology suites are scheduled for a phased renovation. The initial update, which involves installing the latest imaging and guidance equipment, will be completed in spring 2026. Updates to the cardiac cath lab are an important part of the women’s health project, and will contribute to the comprehensive cardiac care program at Good Samaritan that also includes non-invasive cardiology, vascular surgery, cardiothoracic surgery and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. 

In accordance with the donor’s wishes, the new Maternity Center will be named after retired physician, Dr. Dennis L. Edwards. As one of the pioneering pediatricians in the region, Dr. Edwards is recognized for accompanying an ill infant on the inaugural flight of Good Samaritan’s medical helicopter service–AirCare. He later served as an anesthesiologist, respected physician leader and vice president of medical operations at Good Samaritan. 

The donor also requested that the Interventional Cardiology Suites be named for Dr. Daniel J. McGowan. Dr. McGowan is a board-certified interventional cardiologist at CHI Health Clinic Heart Institute, and has served the community for more than 25 years.

“I’m forever amazed and profoundly grateful for the generosity of our donors and their dedication to helping others. This gift will impact our community for generations to come. And stand as a lasting tribute to all the exceptional physicians and medical professionals, past and present, who have also answered the call to serve. Our gratitude is immeasurable,” says Richter. 

Events to commemorate the openings of the Dr. Dennis L. Edwards Maternity Center and Dr. Daniel J. McGowan Interventional Cardiology Suites will be planned upon the projects’ completion.