Baystate Health

Fifteen years ago today, our region faced one of the most devastating natural disasters in its history. On June 1, 2011, tornadoes tore through Western Massachusetts, impacting thousands of residents and forever changing communities from Westfield to Sturbridge.

As the storm unfolded, Baystate Health activated its emergency response plans and prepared to care for those injured in the disaster. Physicians, nurses, surgeons, support staff, and countless others came together to provide lifesaving care when our community needed it most.

Today, we pause to remember those who lost their lives, those who were injured, and all who were affected by the storms. We also recognize the extraordinary resilience of our neighbors, first responders, and caregivers who helped our region recover and rebuild.

The anniversary serves as a reminder of the critical role healthcare plays during times of crisis and the strength that emerges when a community comes together. We are honored to continue serving Western Massachusetts and remain committed to being there when our region needs us most. 💙



📸 Dr. Reginald Alouidor, Trauma Services, talking to reporters at a news conference at Baystate Medical Center on June 2, 2011, the day after the tornadoes.

Kimberley Morgan’s journey is a testament to the life-changing impact of workforce development programs and community support. 💙

After facing a difficult chapter in her life, Kimberley found opportunity through organizations like MassHire Hampden County Workforce Board and Dress for Success Western Massachusetts before enrolling in ’s Patient Care Technician Apprenticeship Program.

Through Baystate’s earn-while-you-learn model, Kimberley was able to receive hands-on clinical training, continue her education, earn a salary, and gain the confidence to pursue a new future in healthcare. Today, she serves as a PCT Level III on the Postpartum Unit at Baystate Medical Center — bringing compassion and purpose to patient care every day! 🏥

Recently, we hosted a celebration to recognize participants, educators, workforce partners, and community leaders who are helping open doors to meaningful healthcare careers throughout .

Together with partners like Holyoke Community College, Springfield Technical Community College, and community organizations across the region, we are strengthening the healthcare workforce and investing in the future of our communities! 🌟

During what appeared to be a routine pre-op assessment for a patient awaiting hip surgery, Jennifer Breault, RN, MSN-BC, noticed something wasn’t right...

Although the patient had been documented as alert and oriented, Jennifer observed subtle neurological changes including confusion, weakness, and facial drooping. Relying on her assessment skills, health care experience, and clinical intuition, she quickly called a stroke alert—helping the patient receive urgent care before undergoing anesthesia. 🧠

Jennifer has been with for nearly 24 years, first as a Patient Care Technician on Wesson 3, then as an RN after graduating from college, and later earned her Master of Science in Nursing. Her story is a powerful reminder that nursing care is deeply human. Observation, advocacy, and hands-on assessment can make all the difference!

This , we proudly recognize Jennifer and all of our nurses who help protect and improve lives every day. 💙

This Memorial Day, we remember the brave service members who made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms that we cherish. We recognize the families, loved ones and friends, among our Baystate Health and Health New England team, as well as those within our communities, who continue to honor their legacy with respect and grace.

This is a day to reflect with gratitude on the courage and selflessness of those who gave their lives in service to our nation. It provides us with a moment to pause and remember the men and women who defined commitment, honor, bravery and valor.

One week ago, Baystate Health was proud to participate in the record-breaking “World’s Largest Pancake Breakfast,” connecting with more than 10,000 community members during Stroke Awareness Month. 🥞❤️

Representing Baystate Health and Baystate Noble Hospital were Chrissy Humason, BS, RN/EMT-P, Nursing Supervisor and Stroke Program Coordinator, and Eileen Dolan, RN, CQI, who shared important stroke education and prevention resources with attendees throughout the morning.

The event created meaningful opportunities for conversation, with many attendees sharing personal stories about stroke survival and recovery.

Thank you to everyone who stopped by to learn more about stroke prevention and recognition. Community outreach like this helps bring important health education directly to the people we serve every day - advancing our communities' health for all.

We are all smiles this because we are bringing it back to last year’s Rays of Hope - Walk & Run Toward the Cure of Breast Cancer! 💕

From the inspiring stories to the incredible community support, every moment reminded us why this event means so much. We’re officially 1️⃣5️⃣0️⃣ days away from the 33rd Annual Rays of Hope Walk & Run, happening on Sunday, October 18, 2026 — registration is OPEN! 🏃

Join thousands of participants as we come together to support breast cancer research, celebrate survivors, honor loved ones, and spread hope throughout our community.

Register today via the link in the comments below! 🩷

May is Stroke Awareness Month.

Two million brain cells die every minute during a stroke, increasing your risk of permanent brain damage, disability, or death. Recognizing the warning signs quickly can make all the difference. Learn how to identify stroke symptoms and explore diagnosis, treatment, and recovery options with the experts at Baystate Health.
Learn More >> https://www.baystatehealth.org/stroke-awareness-month

More access to care is coming to Ware! 💙

We are excited to announce a new convenient care facility coming to 144 West Street in Ware, located in the former Smithland Pet and Garden Center.

Baystate Mary Lane Convenient Care – Ware will offer:
🔹 Walk-in and scheduled appointments
🔹 Evening and weekend hours
🔹 On-site imaging services
🔹 On-site laboratory services for patients and community members with lab orders

Conveniently located near local amenities and accessible by public transportation, the site is designed to help community members get timely care close to home. 🏡

This new location reflects ’s ongoing commitment to meet people where they are, and expand access to compassionate, high-quality healthcare across .

Baystate Health finds Ware location for ‘convenient care’ Baystate hopes to start a medical residency program at the site, training doctors beginning in 2028 or 2029.