In a major step toward strengthening rural healthcare in West Virginia, Memorial Health System officially broke ground on the future site of the new Sistersville General Hospital. The event, held across from the current hospital in Sistersville, marks the beginning of a new era for local care and community health access.
A Vision for the Future
The groundbreaking ceremony was more than just a construction milestone — it also launched The Promise Campaign, a $12 million fundraising initiative led by the Memorial Health Foundation to support the new hospital and other Memorial Health clinics across Tyler County.
Local and state leaders, including health system officials and elected representatives, gathered to speak about what this project means for the future of Sistersville, Tyler County, and the surrounding region.
Community Leaders Rally for Support
The day began with a VIP luncheon at the historic E.A. Durham House, where Jarrett Stull, Executive Director of the Memorial Health Foundation, and Donn Schafer, a member of the health system’s board of directors, welcomed attendees.
State Delegate David Kelly and his wife, Jan Kelly, who are serving as co-chairs of the Promise Campaign, emphasized the importance of community support to raise the remaining funds.
So far, $9.7 million has been committed by a combination of state and local governments, including the State of West Virginia, the Tyler County Commission, and the cities of Sistersville, Middlebourne, and Friendly. Another $300,000 has been raised through private philanthropy, leaving just $2 million left to meet the campaign’s goal.
During the ceremony, Peoples Bank announced a $125,000 gift, and Dr. Dan Breece and Leah Breece, co-chairs of the upcoming Women and Children’s Hospital Together Campaign, made a personal donation of $25,000.
A Hospital Designed for Modern Rural Care
The new Sistersville General Hospital is being designed to bring modern healthcare services closer to home. Plans include:
- Space for rotating specialists across high-demand medical fields
- Advanced procedure areas for expanded services
- Community rooms for local events and health education
- Dedicated lab and diagnostic services for quicker, more accurate results
This investment will allow residents of Tyler County and nearby areas to access high-quality care without having to travel long distances.
A Day of Celebration and Reflection
The event was also a moment of reflection for community leaders. Sistersville Mayor William (Bill) Rice spoke emotionally about how close the town once came to losing its hospital altogether.
“We went from nearly closing the doors to building something new,” said Rice. “It’s an unbelievable day for the people of this town. Thank you to Memorial Health System.”
Scott Cantley, President and CEO of Memorial Health System, said the new facility will not only match but potentially surpass other hospitals within the network in terms of quality and services. “We will provide Sistersville and the surrounding area with the finest facility and best care possible,” Cantley said.
Other speakers included Jody Bullman, President of Sistersville and Shelby General Hospitals, and Trenton Barnhart, Delegate of the West Virginia House. Also in attendance were Ann Helmick, a longtime donor; Marie Prezioso, Executive Director of the WV Water Development Authority; and representatives from the offices of U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito and Jim Justice.
Local Leadership with Deep Roots
Jason Suter, who has spent over 15 years at Sistersville General Hospital, now serves as Hospital Administrator. A lifelong resident, Suter began his career as a physical therapist and has continued supporting patients while helping guide the hospital’s future.
“I’m proud to serve my hometown and help lead this transformation,” Suter said.
Officials hope construction will be completed by the end of 2026, ushering in a new chapter of accessible, high-quality healthcare for Sistersville and its neighboring communities.
