The Chesapeake Regional Health Foundation hosted its annual gala at the Chesapeake Conference Center, celebrating 50 years of exceptional community care provided by Chesapeake Regional Healthcare. The event marked a significant milestone for the health system, which opened its doors in 1976 as a grassroots effort to bring high-quality health care closer to home for the growing city of Chesapeake.
“The Chesapeake Regional Health Foundation’s Annual Gala is an opportunity for us to come together, make a meaningful impact, and ensure that quality health care is accessible to everyone in our region,” said Elisa Wills, CFRE, chief development officer. “The energy in the room, the commitment of our donors, and the passion of the staff make it a highlight of the year—a true testament to the power of philanthropy in transforming lives.”
Key milestones in the health system’s five-decade journey have included:
1966: The General Assembly created the Chesapeake Hospital Authority.
1976:
Chesapeake General Hospital officially opened its doors to provide high-quality care in Chesapeake.
1986: The BirthPlace opened, marking a focus on specialized maternal care.
1993:
The Chesapeake Regional Health Foundation was established to support the hospital’s mission through philanthropy.
1995:
The Sidney M. Oman Cancer Treatment Center opened, bringing comprehensive cancer care to the city.
2015-
2016: Rebranded to Chesapeake Regional Healthcare and introduced advanced services, including 3D Mobile Mammography.
2022: Achieved top 5% recognition for labor and delivery.
2024:
Added an advanced critical care tower and cardiac care/open-heart surgery.
2025:
Opened the Emergency Department Behavioral Health Unit, earned Provisional Level III Trauma Center designation, and debuted the “Mom Mobile” for postpartum care.
For more information about Chesapeake Regional Healthcare services, visit chesapeakeregional.com.
—Chesapeake Regional Healthcare
PHOTO COURTESY OF CHESAPEAKE REGIONAL HEALTHCARE
