To the editor:

On behalf of the board of directors for the Kansas Equality Coalition, Lawrence/Douglas County Chapter, we would like to thank Gene Meyer, president and CEO of Lawrence Memorial Hospital, for his support in changing the LMH hospital visitation policy so that it recognizes family members of patients to include significant others.

This positive and inclusive step makes it possible for couples who are not recognized or have not completed a civil union to be involved in the care of their loved ones. Discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity does not belong in this country and certainly not in Lawrence, Kansas. Meyer and his administrative staff understand this important issue, and we are grateful to them.

The hospital visitation policy now reads: “The patient has the right to participate in the decision regarding visitors, specifically determining family/significant other to be involved in their care and support. When patient condition prevents decision making by the patient, staff will involve family including a person who is recognized as the patient’s significant other.”

Thank you, Gene. You have given community members interested in supporting the rights of others another reason to live in Lawrence.

Maggie Childs, board chair,
Katherine Pryor, member-at-large,
Lawrence