“My parents modeled giving in so many ways. I think it’s almost in my DNA to give back.” — Kathy Christie

There were no better role models for Kathleen “Kathy” Christie growing up than her late parents Stuart and Sheila or lessons on giving left untaught for her and her siblings.

“My parents modeled giving in so many ways,” said Kathy, “I think it’s almost in my DNA to give back.” Kathy recently gave one of the most transformational gifts in Morristown Medical Center’s history to strengthen comprehensive medical education in orthopedics – establishing the five-year Christie Family Orthopedic Residency Program as well as the Christie Family Orthopedic Fellowship Program, which offers a one-year advanced curriculum in Adult Reconstruction.

Her support significantly adds to the caliber of orthopedics at Morristown Medical Center, ensuring it will remain one of the nation’s most sought-after programs for years to come.

In 2022, more than one million hip and knee replacements were performed in the United States, according to the American College of Rheumatology. That number is expected to double over the next decade. “At this stage in my life, it seems I need orthopedic care, and so many of my friends are saying the same thing; when I look to the future, I want to make sure we will continue to have excellent doctors and surgeons to help people out in this critical area,” said Kathy.

This gift has profound personal significance as she knows her parents would be proud of it. “My parents gave of themselves so freely – I don’t know where to begin to describe their lives,” said Kathy. “For years, they led a youth group together at our church; my mom did everything in the community, she was a Girl Scout troop leader and helped run a summer camp for inner-city youth. Whenever anyone had a need, they were there to fill it.”

Kathy has done it all, too, mirroring her parents through her work with the Women’s Association for Morristown Medical Center (WAMMC), where over the last ten years, she has held many roles, including treasurer, finance chair, and co-chair of the Hospital Gift Shops and Hospital Liaison committees – most recently serving as the volunteer organization’s president.

During her time with WAMMC and as a Foundation for Morristown Medical Center trustee, Kathy has enjoyed discussions on the hospital’s most crucial needs which keep her intentional about her giving. “It inspires me to find the resources to help,” she said. “I have more than I need and choose to fill my time by helping others. It’s a very fulfilling way to live.”

With hours of volunteer work at the hospital each week, Kathy is a familiar face as she walks the hallways from one project to the next, doing her part to support the extraordinary care that has come to define Morristown Medical Center and the people who make it all possible.

To support orthopedics at Morristown Medical Center, contact Cori McGuire, foundation officer, at 973-593-2409.