- Lindsay Cashio
Nearly 200 guests recently joined the AdventHealth Waterman Foundation for the milestone 10th annual Celebration of Life Gala.
The evening at the Orlando Science Center raised more than $106,000 to support the hospital’s emergency services expansion and included a gourmet dinner, silent auction, entertainment by SAK Comedy Lab and a special drawing for a pair of garnet and diamond earrings.
“Originally built to accommodate 50,000 patients a year, our AdventHealth Waterman emergency department cared for nearly 66,500 patients in 2018. These consistently high volumes show a clear community need to expand our ER to care for patients who turn to us during their greatest time of need,” said April Kauffman, AdventHealth Waterman Foundation president. “Through the generosity of our donors, we can help ensure patients continue to receive the very best care in a safe and compassionate environment.”
The AdventHealth Waterman Foundation is currently engaged in a $5 million capital campaign to support the hospital’s ongoing construction project to expand the emergency department. All proceeds from the gala will support this campaign.
Expanding emergency services and facilities at the hospital aims to improve patient access and satisfaction, reduce wait times, provide greater privacy and enhance patient safety.
The first phase of the project will open in April of 2019.
Recent News
Worried about his dog, a DeLand patient finds unexpected help from hospital nurses
Even as Ted DeGuzman struggled to breathe, his mind kept coming back to one thing: Luna.
AdventHealth brings steadier care to patients by reducing nurse turnover
Nursing turnover across the East Florida Division dropped from 16.4% to 12.3% in 2025 as hospitals strengthened support and expanded opportunities for nurses.
At the bedside, an ICU nurse carries lessons from home
While caring for her father through serious illness, ICU nurse Kaleigh Hulsman learned lessons in compassion she now brings to patients.
Palm Coast nurse earns national emergency certification to strengthen patient care
Support from local foundation helps AdventHealth nurse advance skills for high-pressure moments.
Mother, daughter pursue nursing careers through education partnership
Family story highlights how AdventHealth’s dynamic learning community helps shape the next generation of nurses.
Amid rapid population growth, AdventHealth plans a new hospital in The Villages to bring care closer to residents
The project is expected to expand access to emergency and hospital services in one of Florida’s fastest-growing regions.
Helping patients regain confidence through innovative overactive bladder treatment at AdventHealth Parker
AdventHealth Parker is now offering an innovative treatment option designed to help patients regain comfort, confidence and greater freedom in daily life.
Nurses surprise cancer patient with vow renewal ceremony honoring 43rd wedding anniversary
Care team at AdventHealth New Smyrna Beach helps couple continue decades-long vow renewal tradition.
A nurse’s calling: Charity Carlisle on growing the next generation
With nearly 25 years at AdventHealth, Charity Carlisle reflects on compassionate, whole-person care and the joy of growing the next generation of nurses.
Cancer risk screenings expand across Central Florida, offering patients clarity earlier
Personalized cancer risk assessments that use AI are now part of routine mammograms, helping patients understand risk sooner and take action with confidence.
6 AdventHealth West Florida hospitals earn top ‘A’ safety grades for protecting patients
AdventHealth West Florida hospitals earn top “A” Leapfrog Safety Grades, offering patients peace of mind through safe, compassionate care.
AdventHealth hospitals earn top safety grades, reflecting years of consistent patient protection
For patients choosing where to seek care, safety is often the first concern.