Leadership Grand Strand, Class 34: Class Day #2

Another busy line up was planned for LGS 34’s second class. We met at the Grand Strand Regional Medical Center in the morning and were introduced to Joan Carroza, Marketing Director who gave us a very informative presentation. She covered some impressive facts about their hospital system including these, to name a few:

· Ranked #1 in SC for cardiac surgery from 2010-2013
· Designated as a prestigious Level II Trauma Center in 2012
· Employs over 270 physicians, 1200 staff member and 200+ volunteers
· Makes an outstanding economic impact on the community of over $200 million annually

Next, we met Dr. John Charles, Director for Medical Affairs who enlightened us on the incredible hospital operation for the medical side. He went into much detail about the advances being made in their procedures for Sepsis diagnostics, “door to balloon” initiative for heart attack patients, and their new technology of the daVinci robotic assisted surgery system. Our hospital system is extremely impressive and we are lucky to have this incredible resource as a part of our community.

Next, the class headed down to the south end of town and went on an eco tour of the Marshwalk in Murrells Inlet. We learned all about its history and area’s origins as a fishing town, earning its nickname as the “seafood capital of the south” from the very beginning. After our tour, the class settled in for lunch on the patio at CreekRatz while enjoying the beautiful view of the Inlet.

Finally, we headed down the street to enjoy the beauty that is Brookgreen Gardens. We started by boarding a pontoon boat to take a tour along the surrounding creeks. We had a very knowledge tour guide who told us all about the history of the rice plantations on the property, what everyday life was like for the local slaves, the many creatures that could be found in the area and how the land became what it is today. We also got to benefit from a guided tour through the amazing sculpture garden, learning all about the original property owners, the Huntington’s, and their love for sculptures and well manicured gardens.

After another wonderful day with LGS, some of us took a few hours to socialize after class back on the Marshwalk at Bubba’s Love Shack. In an attempt to prove that we can (and will!) be more fun than the infamous Class 31, we made plans to schedule more group socials for our remaining time together, starting next week. Another memorable day for the books indeed!