Hundreds of red-clad Associates, physicians, patients and families, donors, volunteers and community leaders broke ground on a new $327-million hospital on Feb. 14. When it opens in 2010, the new Le Bonheur will double its current space for patient care, research and teaching.

Three hundred employees dressed in red formed the shape of a heart around the stage and seating area. World-renowned opera singer Kallen Esperian and students from choirs at Manor Lake Elementary, St. Louis Elementary, Memphis University School and University of Memphis Campus School sang special tributes to Le Bonheur with the grand fi nale performed by Esperian.

Up on stage, Le Bonheur President Meri Armour was joined by Susan Cooper, Tennessee’s commissioner of the Department of Health and a master’s-prepared nurse, Dr. Pat Wall, Chancellor of the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis Mayor Willie Herenton and Shelby County Mayor A C Wharton, who spoke about the importance of quality health care being available to all children. Methodist Le Bonheur CEO Gary Shorb, and COO Peggy Troy expressed thanks to the donors and supporters who made this project a reality. There were taped congratulatory messages from Governor Phil Bredesen and Senators Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker.

Former patients then joined Armour with heart-shaped shovels to break ground on the facility, symbolizing the start of the new building. Th ey were joined by children and patients in the crowd with mini-shovels to dig into a pile of dirt.

To date, more than $82.5 million has been raised toward the $100 million fund-raising goal.

“It is thrilling that the community recognizes the need for Le Bonheur to grow,” said Armour. “The outpouring of support from many Mid-Southerners truly allows us to provide excellent care to our children and do what is best for kids. From the largest corporations and foundations to Le Bonheur staff to individual donors, we are moved by their love for Le Bonheur.”