Hoyer Remarks at University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center Groundbreaking Ceremony

LARGO, MD – This morning, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) gave brief remarks at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new University of Maryland Capital Region Medical Center. Below are his remarks as prepared for delivery:

"This is a wonderful day. This new medical center is a symbol not only of our common commitment to the health and wellbeing of residents of Prince George's County and Southern Maryland and the Capital Region. It is also a reminder of what we can do when we work together toward a shared goal.

"This is a project we have been undertaking for a very long time. This day is an affirmation of the power of perseverance and determination.  It is a testament to the commitment by so many people to a common goal. I'm proud to stand alongside officials from both parties in our state who have partnered with stakeholders in academia, in the health care sector, and in the local community to bring this project to fruition. God bless those of you who work in the medical community. This new medical center adds to the County's growing status as a regional health care and medical research hub. It will also bring exciting new economic opportunities to Prince George's County and our region that is growing and attracting residents and business investment with new opportunities. 

"But this groundbreaking is for more than a building. It is for more than a hospital. Hippocrates wrote millennia ago: ‘wherever the art of medicine is loved, there is also a love of humanity.' A hospital is more than just a place for physical healing. It is a reminder of our humanity. It is a center of security, hope, revitalization, rehabilitation, faith, and – yes – love. It is where the commandment to ‘love thy neighbor' enters into daily practice.

"So as we open the next chapter in this project, let us begin to see what will take shape here: a building, yes, but far more. I thank everyone here for their hard work on this center of excellence. This center of telling one another we are here, and we care. Thank you."