Decorated in loving honor of Lurine B. Little, the sunroom reflects her personal favorites—from the red and gold Christmas tree she cherished, to holly centerpieces and soft orange accents, her favorite color, which was utilized in the centerpieces. Every detail was thoughtfully chosen to celebrate her life, her spirit, and the warmth she brought to those around her.
Ribbon Cutting | Grand Opening Ceremony
“The Little Sunroom” Brings Light, Joy, and Community Together
Saunders Medical Center proudly celebrated the open house and ribbon cutting of The Lurine B. Little Sunroom, affectionately known as “The Little Sunroom,” with a joyful community gathering filled with gratitude, reflection, and excitement for what this new space means for residents.
More than 100 community members attended the event, a testament to the collective effort and shared pride behind this project. The sunroom—designed to bring natural light, warmth, and comfort—was already buzzing with smiles and conversation as residents and guests gathered to mark the milestone.
The ribbon cutting featured remarks from several leaders who helped guide the project from vision to reality, including:
Mike Chvatal, President of the Saunders Medical Center Foundation
Theresa Klein, Vice Chairperson of the Hospital Board
Julie Rezac, Chief Executive Officer of Saunders Medical Center
Adding a particularly meaningful touch, residents of SMC Skilled & Long Term Care who already enjoy the sunroom shared in the celebration, including May Taylor, age 99, and Dorothy Sorensen, age 97, reminding everyone why the space matters so deeply.
A moving highlight of the event came from Linda Little, daughter of Lurine B. Little, for whom the sunroom is named. Fighting back tears, Linda spoke about the power of community and what it means to see a shared vision come to life:
“As I mentioned, this was a community-wide project. (Tearing up.) I thank my friends, business associates, and the infamous ‘Cool Cat 4-H Club,’ as well as my niece who was here—this is a great community project, and there will be many more community projects that come to fruition through the efforts and fundraising and organizing and donations of many people in our community.
So, if you have an opportunity to step up to volunteer, help with the fundraising, or you feel like you can make a gift—boy let me tell you, it is fun to see something come to fruition while I am here!
I hope everyone enjoys this, as the sunshine makes a huge difference in the quality of someone’s life.
Thank you all. Thank you, community! Continue to come together to make Wahoo great!”
— Linda Little
The Little Sunroom stands as a lasting symbol of what can happen when a community comes together with purpose and heart. It is already enhancing daily life for residents—providing a peaceful place to gather, reflect, and enjoy the simple but powerful gift of sunshine.
Saunders Medical Center extends its deepest thanks to everyone who donated, volunteered, planned, and supported this project. This space will brighten lives for years to come and serve as a reminder that together, our community truly makes a difference.
The Building Process
We’re making sunny strides! Look at those VIEWS! Construction is moving right along on the Lurine B. Little Sunroom, and we’re thrilled to see this beautiful new space coming to life for our Skilled and Long Term Care residents. Stay tuned—we’re bringing year-round sunshine to those who deserve it most! #BuildingJoy #SunroomProgress #SaundersMedicalCenterFoundation #LittleSunroom
