Hero wall unveiled at Beaumont Hospital

Division President Eric W. Widner and Jay Bonnell, corporate controller of Beaumont Hospital Wayne.

As the controller at Beaumont Hospital – Wayne, Jay Bonnell works behind the scenes to fulfill the needs of staff and physicians so they can provide the best in care to the community.
So when it came time for Bonnell to be recognized for his own philanthropic efforts, it was no surprise to those who know him that he opted instead to defer that recognition to others. As an Oakwood Foundation President’s and Legacy Society Member, Bonnell took his naming opportunity to honor the exceptional team at Beaumont – Wayne. The result was the Hero Hall, named in honor of site president Eric W. Widner and dedicated to showcasing the staff and physicians who provide exceptional care to patients.
“Jay has made a tremendous impact on the programs and services we provide at Beaumont Hospital – Wayne,” said Michelle Anderson, interim executive director of the Oakwood Foundation. “He has made this impact in the most humble and unassuming manner.”
His gifts have helped provide equipment for the Beaumont Breast Care Center – Wayne, supported the Summer Speech Therapy Program and more. Bonnell offered a challenge grant that matched Spirit of Giving Campaign contributions by management at the hospital and he has also made arrangements through his estate plan to make a significant gift to support patient care.
“Jay has taken significant personal action by making charitable investments in areas that impact patient care, and, challenging our staff and leadership to do the same,” said Dr. Neelam Kumar, Oakwood Foundation, Chair and Physician Supervisor of Pathology at Beaumont – Wayne. “The wonderful thing about Jay is that he sees the personal side of things. He speaks directly to our physicians, our patients, their family members and staff each day. I think that Jay has a unique perspective into the impact of charity and philanthropy.”
The wall is prominently located in the hallway behind the main lobby. The photos of team members who have gone above and beyond to impact the lives of patients are displayed on a gray background under special lighting. It’s already full.
“I can see the impact each day I come to work,” said Bonnell.
Widner said even though Jay chose to honor him with the naming of the Hero Hall, it’s Jay’s spirit that reverberates through the hallway.
“Jay’s enthusiasm and his passion for this hospital, for our coworkers, the physicians and for our patients, radiates from him,” Widner said. “This hallway is designed to celebrate the caring heroes on our team, but it really demonstrates Jay’s commitment to excellent patient care and the community. We are so fortunate to have him as a partner, as a colleague and as an investor in our efforts. I think this is a fantastic way to honor the dedicated staff members and physicians who go above and beyond to provide exceptional care to our patients and their families.”