Celebrating the Women Who Helped Build Overlake

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March 01, 2023

This Women’s History Month, we are celebrating the women’s auxiliaries of Overlake who played a critical role in our founding.

The vision for high-quality healthcare on the Eastside first began in 1953 when community leaders and volunteers joined forces and set in motion a seven-year fundraising campaign. A dedicated group of women formed an auxiliary, led by Clyde Hill resident Lorraine Weltzien, and began raising money to bring the dream of the hospital to life.

By 1959, enough funds had been raised to begin construction of the hospital. One year later, the hospital officially opened its doors to the community with 56 beds. 

Over the next 60 years, members of the auxiliaries continued to support medical excellence at Overlake through community engagement, outreach and fundraising—hosting numerous events and activities to help fund a variety of hospital programs. 

Though Overlake’s auxiliaries have moved on to a well-deserved retirement, we will not forget their immense contributions and impact.    

Overlake Auxiliaries: Celebrating 60 Years of Critical Work
First check.
Oct. 8, 1953, the newly-formed auxiliary present a $50 check from the proceeds of their first fundraiser to the treasurer of the hospital board.
Early fundraising efforts.
After the success of their first fundraiser, the auxiliaries continue to get creative and host a variety of events in an effort to raise funds for the hospital.
One of the last auxiliaries at Overlake, the Roger Stark Cardiac and Stroke Auxiliary (established in 2008), met for lunch in 2021 and still get together today. Through their joint efforts, they were able to purchase several essential medical items and devices for Overlake’s Heart & Vascular program.
One of the last auxiliaries at Overlake, the Roger Stark Cardiac and Stroke Auxiliary (established in 2008), met for lunch in 2021 and still get together today. Through their joint efforts, they were able to purchase several essential medical items and devices for Overlake’s Heart & Vascular program. Left side of the table (front to back): Janey Hogan; Marilyn Morgan; Isa Nelson. Right side of the table (front to back): Marion Huizinga; Sue Raschella; Joan Ross.
The Sonja Potter Senior Care Auxiliary
The Sonja Potter Senior Care Auxiliary, established in 1996, recently reunited to celebrate member Mildred Douthit’s 101st birthday. Over the years, the group raised thousands of dollars and helped purchase needed equipment for Overlake’s Senior Health Clinic. From left: Patti Murphy; Bärbel Kappes; Mildred Douthit; Gloria Mercer; Maureen Schroder.
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Living Well
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