[bike42]

Originally Posted by villages07

As Russ often reminds us ... it's voluntary donations not mandatory taxes that are being sought.

Do we need another cancer center? Good question. I assume someone or some group much smarter than me has analyzed the demographics, population growth, health needs, and existing facilities and determined that there is a need for further expansion.

I remember friends back North who worked tirelessly doing fundraisers for their local community hospital to purchase equipment, build new wings, etc. I don't recall any hue and cry about why donations were needed to fund these local, critical needs.

I think there is some instant suspicion whenever the Morse family is involved. Yes, they are business people out to make a buck but they have also been the catalyst for the rapid expansion and improvement of medical facilities for this area. Without their push and influence, I fear we would not have anywhere near the facilities or medical personnel that we have now to serve this fast growing area. If it had been left up to Sumter/Lake/Marion County or the State of Florida to meet our medical needs, I think (just my opinion) that we would have been terribly underserved.

I hope to never have to use Moffitt's capabilities, but, I am impressed with their total patient care approach and feel they will be an asset to this community.

Well said -- thank you.