South KC News

After more than ten years of voluntary service, Liz Schlechty is set to be recognized by Bates County Memorial Hospital. Having retired in 2024, she is to be honored at the Auxiliary Recognition Banquet on April 24, 2025. At the event, Schlechty will receive a gift in recognition of her service.

Liz Schlechty's connection with Bates County Memorial Hospital dates back several decades, although many know her from her work at the front desk. Originally from Atchison, Kansas, Schlechty entered the healthcare field at the age of 17 as a nursing assistant at Atchison Hospital. She pursued formal training at Bethany Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas.

Throughout her career, Schlechty served in various capacities in healthcare, including obstetrics, surgery, and recovery, at different hospitals such as Lakeside Hospital and BCMH in the late 1990s. Working part-time in departments like the ER, surgery, and skilled nursing, she was renowned for her composed skill and caring personality. She found her work in surgery particularly fulfilling, noting, "You’re always seeing something different… it was really interesting."

A serious car accident in 2005 placed Schlechty on an extended path to recovery. By 2006, she returned to BCMH, transitioning to a Registered Nurse role at the hospital's rural health clinic in Adrian. Her career spanned 13 years until her retirement in 2012.

Her retirement was short-lived; in 2013, Schlechty returned to BCMH as a volunteer. She wanted to contribute to her community again, stating, “I just decided to give something back to the community.” Schlechty became an integral part of the hospital's volunteer staff, aiding visitors and colleagues alike. She also influenced decisions like a donation for a blanket warmer at the Long-Nissen Infusion Center.

Liz Schlechty concluded her volunteer duties in 2024 due to vision issues that affected her driving ability. Despite her retirement from active service, her impact at BCMH continues to resonate.

Reflecting on her volunteer experience, Schlechty shared, “If you have some extra time, it’s good. You meet a lot of people and get to know them.” Her commitment to connection and community service has been central to her contributions.

Bates County Memorial Hospital extends its gratitude to Liz Schlechty for her dedication to patient care and her lasting influence on the hospital community.