PAH at Groundhog Day

Another Groundhog Day is in the books. Punxsutawney Area Hospital assisted the festivities at Gobbler’s Knob by providing free services for attendees. The famous Seer of Seers draws people from all over the world and PAH was proud to be a part of the festivities.
Deanna Beveridge, Nurse Educator and Disaster Preparedness Officer at PAH was responsible for organizing the effort for the 2023 year. The largest challenge in preparing for this event was determining what supplies and equipment PAH was going to take to Gobbler’s Knob. “We are used to having everything we need readily available at the hospital to care for patients. Knowing that we couldn’t take everything made it challenging to predict what we may need to best care for those seeking our services” stated Beveridge. While a small number of people sought medical care at the event, the Punxsutawney Area Hospital staff members were glad to be there for those in need.
Also in attendance during the morning activities was Jennifer A. Elick, Med/Surg Nurse Manager. As a first timer to Groundhog Day, Elick states, “Experiencing Groundhog Day at the Knob has always been a bucket list item for me. When the opportunity presented to combine this exciting experience with representing PAH nursing, I jumped at the chance!”

According to Elick, the climb to Gobbler’s Knob proved a challenge for a few folks with pre-existing medical conditions who decided to walk instead of using the bus service, but attendees mainly had issues related to the cold temperatures.

“I am really proud of PAH’s continued dedication to providing high quality health care services to the Punxsutawney community. The Medical Aid station at the Knob exemplifies PAH’s investment in the health and well-being of every person whether here for a day or a lifetime” added Elick.


Pictures left to right
Jennifer McCunn, Med/Surg Assistant Nurse Manager
Jennifer Elick, Med/Surg Nurse Manager
Dr. Bryan Dempsey, Director of the Emergency Department
Members of the Juvenile Characteristics Jason Sample and Jason Hummell, performers on the Gobbler’s Knob stage