President Cecil E. Roberts presented the final donation check to the WVU Medicine Children’s Hospital this week. The hospital, which officially opened on Saturday, September 24, 2022, features a state-of-the-art facility with 150 beds and is dedicated to providing advanced care for seriously ill and injured children from across the region.
The hospital’s design includes private rooms to offer families the opportunity to stay close to their children throughout their care journey. Among the hospital’s specialized units is the Cecil E. Roberts, United Mine Workers of America WVU Children’s Heart Wing, a testament to President Roberts’ commitment to improving healthcare for families of working people.
“This hospital stands as a beacon of hope for families who need it most,” said President Roberts, who was born in company housing in Cabin Creek, WV. “The UMWA has always fought for working families, not just in the mines but in every aspect of their lives. This contribution reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring that the children of our communities receive the care they deserve.”
A Legacy of Leadership and Care
Under Roberts’ leadership, the UMWA has championed numerous healthcare initiatives, but the heart wing dedication holds special meaning for him. “I am humbled by this honor, and I am incredibly proud of what we’ve accomplished together. This facility will save lives, and there’s no greater reward than that,” Roberts said.
“Working alongside Cecil Roberts has been one of the greatest privileges of my career,” said International Secretary-Treasurer Brian Sanson. “His vision, dedication, and heart for working families are unmatched, and this recognition is well-deserved. The UMWA and the communities we serve owe him a debt of gratitude.”
With its official opening, the WVU Medicine Children’s Hospital is poised to make a lasting impact, continuing a legacy of care and compassion fostered by leaders like Roberts and the dedicated members of the UMWA.