The Importance of Strong Local Healthcare
Amazing care at Otsego Memorial Hospital inspires Lewiston couple to give back
Kathie and Gary Vollmar are what many consider an All-American couple. Born and raised in the “thumb” of Michigan, the hardworking duo was brought north to Lewiston by the promise of opportunity and the beauty of northern Michigan.
Like many Michiganders, Kathie and Gary built successful careers in the automotive, manufacturing, and farming industries while raising their family.
And like nearly two million Americans each year, Kathie’s world was rocked in 2018 by three words: “You have cancer.”
Not Just a Number
The Vollmars never considered leaving town to seek treatment for Kathie. They had full confidence she would receive the best possible care locally at Munson Healthcare Otsego Memorial Hospital.
“I never had a doubt they wouldn’t fix it,” Gary said. “And we’re not the type of people to keep our mouth shut if we’re in doubt,” Kathie added with a laugh.
The same week Kathie received her diagnosis, her surgeon, James Shurlow, D.O., set up a follow-up appointment to discuss next steps. Less than one month later – and over the Christmas and New Year holidays, nonetheless – surgery was scheduled to remove Kathie’s tumor and a treatment plan was in place.
“If I went downstate [for treatment], I probably would have had to wait for months,” Kathie said. “Dr. Shurlow got me right in and it was amazing.”
Kathie spent the months following her surgery meeting with her oncology team and preparing for chemotherapy and radiation. She was continually amazed by the speed with which her care team acted and the level of personal attention she received.
“You’re not a number at the hospital,” she said in earnest.
Gary, who has also received routine, preventative care at Otsego Memorial Hospital (OMH), echoes this.
A New Venture
Not long after receiving Kathie's cancer diagnosis, the Vollmars took a leap of faith and purchased Otsego Resort in Gaylord, Michigan.
“How we ended up with this resort is kind of a funny story,” Gary shared, recalling how they casually placed a few bids on the resort during an online auction in 2018. “We weren’t thinking it was ever going to go for what we would be willing to pay. And, you know, it’s been a fun experience!”
The Vollmars decided Kathie would run day-to-day operations for the resort while Gary, a savvy accountant with a proven track record of business success, managed the finances. They love getting to connect with community members and share ski and golf fun with their grandchildren.
In 2021, several years after purchasing Otsego Resort, the Vollmars found themselves in a position to make a significant gift to a charitable organization.
“I want to make it to the hospital,” Kathie recalled saying during a discussion with her husband. “Why not? The money’s going to help people. I still have to go [to OMH] for appointments and everyone at the hospital is just amazing.”
Gary was in full agreement. Together, the couple made a multi-year pledge of $250,000 to support continued innovation at OMH.
A Tax-Friendly Way to Give Back
Instead of making an outright gift of cash, the Vollmars chose to make their gift through their IRA. This charitable giving method offers payment flexibility and certain tax benefits.
“One of the things that’s near and dear to me is income tax,” Gary said with a chuckle. “For us, [giving through our IRA] was the best way to make a contribution. Coming out of the IRA, it’s really not a withdrawal. It goes directly to the hospital and there are no tax consequences to us whatsoever.”
Gary also views their gift as a tax-friendly investment in the community, their businesses, and their employees. Between owning Otsego Resort and several manufacturing plants, the Vollmars employ over 150 community members.
“I do believe that when you have a hospital with the capabilities that we have here in Gaylord, you can attract the workforce that you need,” Gary shared.
Through Kathie’s treatment, the Vollmars have seen firsthand how beneficial it is for a hospital to have the latest and greatest technology and equipment.
“You never know how important it is until you need it,” Gary said.
Paying it Forward
Kathie and Gary remain grateful to OMH for the incredible care Kathie received. She has made nearly a full recovery and expects to be released from all treatment this spring.
When asked why they chose to share their story, Gary said:
“Quite frankly, we don’t always look to tell people what we do. But if it inspires somebody else to do the same thing, then that’s great.”
Support Local Healthcare Today
To learn more about making a gift through your IRA, donor-advised fund, life insurance policy, estate plans, or other planned giving vehicle, please contact our Planned Giving team at legacy@mhc.net.
Donor support – in any amount – makes it possible for people like Kathie to receive the life-changing care they need. Thank you for your generosity!