Baptist Health Hardin opens new walking trail with Survivorship Walk, launch of new weekly walking program
ELIZABETHTOWN, KY (June 5, 2025) – Baptist Health Hardin officially opened its new Community Health Walk and Running Trail on Thursday with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and Survivorship Walk honoring cancer survivors and their families.
The event, hosted by the Baptist Health Auxiliary Hardin, brought together community members, including patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, local officials, and Baptist Health Hardin team members in a celebration of hope and wellness. Founded in 1955, the auxiliary is a volunteer-led organization that supports the hospital through service, fundraising, and outreach. From staffing the gift shop to assisting patients and families, auxiliary members provide comfort and connection that greatly benefit the hospital community. This year marks the auxiliary’s 70th anniversary.
The walk also recognized National Cancer Survivors Month, observed each June, and honored those who have faced cancer with strength, resilience, and courage.
“This trail represents more than just a new feature on our campus—it’s a long-term commitment to the health and well-being of our entire community,” said Robert Ramey, president of Baptist Health Hardin. “Whether you’re recovering, supporting a loved one, or simply walking for your own wellness, this trail was created with you in mind. It’s a space that reflects our promise to support lifelong health for every person we serve—today and for generations to come.”
Following Ramey’s welcome, Hardin County Judge Executive Keith Taul offered remarks on behalf of the Hardin County Fiscal Court, which helped fund the project through generous support to Baptist Health Foundation Hardin.
“The Community Health Walk and Running Trail is more than a trail—it’s a way for us to take care of ourselves and each other,” said Judge Taul. “It’s a space to get moving, clear your head, and connect with others. That’s what building a strong, healthy community is all about.”
Other program highlights included an opening prayer by Jessica Jasper, director of Spiritual Care; remarks from Pam Johnson, Auxiliary president; remarks from radiation oncologist William Porter, MD, who spoke to the significance of survivorship; and a moving personal testimony from Sara Jo Best, a local public health leader and cancer survivor who received care at Baptist Health Hardin.
Guests also heard from Amanda Chism, MD, who introduced the hospital’s newest initiative: Pathways to Wellness, a weekly walking group focused on education, community support, and physical activity.
After the ribbon cutting, attendees walked the new trail; connected with vendors and health partners including Kentucky Cancer Program, Gilda’s Club and Tails & TaTas; and took part in cancer center tours. Flowers for survivors and floral displays were generously donated by Village Green Nursery and Landscaping and Hinton’s Orchard & Farm Market, respectively.
The evening concluded with an ice cream social and a strong sense of shared purpose.
The Community Health Walk and Running Trail features a lighted, scenic loop open daily to the public. It includes six reflection stops, each highlighting one of Baptist Health Hardin’s core values – excellence, integrity, respect, teamwork, compassion, and joy – paired with scripture that reinforces the organization’s mission of faith-based, compassionate care.
The trail surrounds the Baptist Health Hardin Medical Pavilion, which became fully operational in January, and furthers the hospital’s mission to provide accessible resources that support long-term health and wellness.
In closing remarks, Ramey shared the project’s lasting impact.
“Today was about more than cutting a ribbon,” he said. “It was about celebrating resilience, recognizing the strength of community support, and reaffirming our commitment to build a healthier future for every person we serve.”
New Weekly Program: Pathways to Wellness
Pathways to Wellness, which launched during the event, is a new community walking group that meets every Thursday at 6:30 p.m. on the Community Health Walk and Running Trail. The weekly sessions begin with a short educational program, followed by light stretching and a group walk.
The first session will take place Thursday, June 12, with Dr. Amanda Chism presenting “Creating a Healthy Lifestyle.” It will be held near the healing garden adjacent to the cancer center. The group walk offers time for informal Q&A and connection with others who share a focus on well-being.
Open to the public and free of charge, Pathways to Wellness is designed to encourage movement, mindfulness, and a sense of community while providing access to trusted health information from local experts.
For more information about Baptist Health Hardin, the Community Health Walk and Running Trail, or the Pathways to Wellness series, call 270.706.5540 or visit BaptistHealth.com/Hardin.