Washington, Oct 18, 2000 - Congressman Dennis J. Kucinich (D-OH) today applauded the new ownership of Deaconess Hospital. Deaconess Hospital was saved from closure through a concerted community effort. The office of Rep. Kucinich played an important role in saving the hospital from imminent closure, by keeping the parties in negotiations until a deal was achieved, and by coordinating the cooperation of federal and local authorities to eliminate potential barriers to the sale of Deaconess to the new owners.  

Congressman Kucinich said, "I join with the community in celebrating today the sale and continued operation of Deaconess Hospital. A lot of people worked very hard to keep the hospital open and serving the community. I wish the new owners, Dr.George Saad and Nour Management, the best in this new and important mission of providing health care to the people of Cleveland."

Deaconess was one of three hospitals in the Cleveland area that were saved by a large community effort. St. Michael Hospital and Richmond Heights were also saved when the people mobilized to keep those hospitals open. Rep. Kucinich said, "This year the people of Cleveland told the institutions of Cleveland that they will fight for their right to accessible health care."

An event to celebrate the new ownership of Deaconess Hospital will be held on Wednesday, October 18, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Deaconess Hospital Atrium, 4229 Pearl Road, Cleveland.