North Myrtle Beach Times Serving our Community and the Grand Strand for over 50 years
By Kaye Collins
McLeod Health Loris marked its 75th “Diamond” Anniversary on Tuesday, November 11, 2025, commemorating its commitment to delivering outstanding medical care to the residents of Loris, South Carolina, and nearby communities.
The staff of McLeod Health Loris, dignitaries and community residents as the Loris community came together in the courtyard at the hospital to honor this significant milestone and discover the origins of how the hospital was established.
Keynote speakers included Donna Isgett, President and CEO of McLeod Health, Scott Montgomery, CEO of McLeod Health Loris and McLeod Health Carolina Forest, Ronald Fowler, Chairman of the McLeod Health Board of Trustees, Monica Vehige, CEO of McLeod Health Seacoast, and the Reverend Charles Randall. Loris City Mayor Mike Suggs delivered a Proclamation to Montgomery and Fowler in honor of the occasion.
“Since our partnership with McLeod Health in 2012, we have continued to enhance our facilities and expand our services,” said Montgomery. “As part of one of the largest healthcare systems in South Carolina, our patients have access to world class physicians and state-of-the-art technology.”
“That legacy is not about the bricks and mortar that we’re looking at,” said Donna Isgett, president and CEO of McLeod Health. “That legacy is about the people that walk through the hallways here. That’s what really makes a difference.”
The 50-bed hospital commenced operations in 1950, following years of advocacy from a local doctor and community members. Initially established as an independent community hospital, it later integrated into the McLeod Hospital System based in Florence.
“Since our partnership with McLeod in 2012, we have continued to enhance our facilities and expand our services,” said Scott Montgomery, CEO of McLeod Health Loris, in a news release. “As part of one of the largest health care systems in South Carolina, our patients have access to world class physicians and state of the art technology.”
As of 2024, Loris had a population of 2,825 within its city limits, and McLeod Health Loris serves as a significant institution for this small city.
“We are very, very fortunate here in Loris,” expressed Loris Mayor Mike Suggs. “You don’t see many cities our size that have a hospital.”
Suggs acknowledged “a collective of visionaries” from the late 1940s for establishing the hospital, which he referred to as ‘a blessing to the city for patient care’ and its guidance extends beyond just medical services. He shared that McLeod Health helps to drive the Loris community.
The Resolution Number 05-25 was beautifully framed commemorating the 75th Anniversary of McLeod Health Loris Hospital being a cornerstone of health and healing in the City of Loris and surrounding communities since its founding in 1949. “For 75 years, McLeod Health Loris has provided compassionate, highly-quality medical care to generations of residents, earning the trust and gratitude of the people it served and the hospital has grown from a modest facility into a modern healthcare institution, offering a wide range of services including emergency care, surgical procedures, diagnostic imaging and specialized treatments.” The final paragraph states “Now, therefore, be it resolved that the City of Loris proudly recognizes and celebrates the 75th Anniversary of McLeod Health Loris, extends its deepest gratitude to all past and present members for their invaluable contributions to health and vitality of our community, and encourages all residents to join in commemorating this milestone and to support the ongoing mission of McLeod Health Loris in the years to come.” This resolution was adopted by the Loris City Council on Nov. 3, 2025, and signed by all council members and witnessed by the City Clerk, Melinda T. Price.
The speakers discussed the historical significance of the hospital over its 75years of operation. “This history, the hospital’s history, reflects the power of local commitment,” shared Fowler. He praised the hospital for its vision. McLeod Health Loris has more than 200 physicians as active or affiliated staff, representing more than 38 specialties. The medical teams specialize in general surgery, women’s services, urological surgery and emergency care.
In honor of the 75th Anniversary Celebration of McLeod Health Loris, a stunning piece of artwork designed by Jennifer Hulon was unveiled, showcasing 75 years of photographs, news stories, and memorabilia. This three-dimensional piece was developed in partnership with historians, former CEOs, Board Members and their descendants.
