Lufkin Hospital Salutes Doctors by Giving Back to the Community

Today, March 30, is National Doctors' Day. It has been recognized in the United States ever since 1933. This day is set aside to recognize physicians for their dedication and contributions to our community.

Do you know why March 30 was chosen for this day?  I'll give you the answer a little later.

How is Woodland Heights Celebrating The Day?

Woodland Heights Medical Center in Lufkin is not only thanking its team of doctors on this special day, but officials there decided to make charitable contributions to five local organizations in honor of its medical staff.

“Woodland Heights and the entire deep East Texas region is fortunate to have the quality medical staff we do,” states Tanner Holt, Assistant CEO of Woodland Heights. “Our local physicians offer care to so many in our community and beyond and we are proud to be their partner in caring for the lives of East Texans.”

The following organizations each received $1,000 donations on behalf of the medical staff of Woodland Heights:

• Angelina County Heart Alliance

• Winnie Berry Humane Society

• Pregnancy Help Center of Lufkin

• East Texas Cancer Alliance of Hope

• Christian Information & Service Center (not pictured)

Here's the quick history lesson on National Doctors' Day

The first observance of this day happened in Winder, Georgia in 1933. March 30 was chosen as the date because it was on that day in 1842 that Dr. Crawford Long first used ether as an anesthetic during an operation.

Ether was pretty much phased out during the 1960s and 1970s. It was used on me when I had my tonsillectomy in 1970. Guess that makes me old.