My family is still in recovery mode from spending December in the hospital where they were operating on my son Alex and that has kept the subject of health care foremost on my mind. I feel there are a lot of miraculous things coming from caring staff and skilled professionals in our hospitals. I was amazed at the way the ICU works and how many decisions have to be made in the right order to come to the right results. So, this week I’d like to share a funder that offers an award to recognize outstanding hospitals and their connection to our community.

This week’s pick: The Foster M. McGraw Prize was established in 1986 to identify and honor hospitals that “have distinguished themselves through efforts to improve the health and well-being of everyone in their communities.” This monetary reward of $100,000 is given out jointly by the American Hospital Association, The Baxter International Foundation and the Cardinal Health Foundation. These organizations believe that there can be a rewarding and positive relationship between hospitals and the communities they serve. To apply for this prize, your application must be received no later than April 4, 2008.