Naomi Koerwitz Driving Her Jeep in the Hollers of Hazard.

In June of 1971 on our sunny windy graduation day, we stood together joyously on
the campus lawn. As our parents snapped pictures of us, we both knew we were
taking something “out into the world” with us that was far better than an education!

Lauri Thompson

Calling, Passion and Faith.

After a brief time of teaching at her college after graduation and then serving in the hilly countryside of Augusta, Wisconsin, Naomi was ready for a more challenging experience and calling.

Seeds were planted.

Naomi was encouraged by Urbana and The Frontier Nursing Service in Kentucky, but it apparently wasn’t in the Lord’s will for her. From 1973 to 1977, Naomi Koerwitz RN worked in Hazard with Lucille LeBeau at a small rural health clinic . Lucille LeBeau, was a midwife.   Armed with her jeep, she navigated the hollers, to make mother/baby visits. These visits were more than just routine check-ups; they were lifelines for many families who had limited access to medical care. Naomi’s dedication during these years was driven by her Christian faith and values, which propelled her to serve in such a challenging environment. Her work in Hazard laid a strong foundation for her future endeavors in public health.

Naomi’s time in Hazard was marked by numerous heartwarming and challenging experiences. She often recounted the stories of families who had never seen a healthcare provider before her visits. Her presence brought not only medical care but also hope and reassurance to the community.

The clinic ran out of funding and Naomi was forced to make a difficult decision and despite her deep love for the community she had come to serve, she reluctantly returned to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where she soon met and married Richard. God’s providence. She knew that her journey in healthcare was far from over. The skills and experiences she gained in Hazard would continue to guide her in her future roles.

Spirit of Hazard

Back in Milwaukee, Naomi’s reputation as a compassionate and dedicated healthcare provider preceded her. She quickly found opportunities to continue her work, always carrying the spirit of Hazard with her.

Legacy

“What is a legacy? It’s planting seeds in a garden you never get to see.” Alexander Hamilton in Hamilton. By Lin-Manuel Miranda.

Maybe not in this life, but I believe Naomi now knows and sees!

Conclusion

Naomi Koerwitz’s legacy of compassion and service lives on through the countless lives she touched during her time in Hazard, Kentucky. By continuing to shine light on the seeds she planted, we can nurture and expand her mission, ensuring that her dedication to maternal health thrives for generations to come. In this way, Naomi’s passions, experience, and gifts can continue to grow exponentially, creating a lasting impact that honors her memory and continues her work.

A Journey of Discovery and Tribute by Richard

Embarking on a journey to Hazard, Kentucky sometime in April,(April 21), where Naomi Koerwitz dedicated four years of her life working in a small rural health clinic, I am filled with anticipation and reverence. Naomi’s early work in this region laid the foundation for the rest of her life, and I believe her contributions continue to resonate within the community. This is one of my main reasons or goals for the journey! To document her influence in the community. And see where the Lord leads!

To see how those SEEDS grew! Don’t believe Naomi’s work has ended! The story of Naomi’s life didn’t begin at her birth and it won’t and didn’t end with her death!

Looking for any pictures of Naomi Koerwitz while she was in Hazard. Also any articles about the clinic and Naomi and her midwife partner Lucille LeBeau.

Have had contact with the following and will stop in and visit after April 21st. Hazard Herald, Senior Center, Library and Little Flower Clinic.

Will visit some churches in regard to GriefShare. Getting the ministry started in Hazard.

Naomi and Lucille: December 1976 in Hazard

Naomi is on the left side of picture . Lucille LeBeau on right. Taken by her brother Norm sometime before Christmas!

They worked together and shared an apartment. Lucille was 15 yrs older than Naomi. Both believers!

Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Naomi Koerwitz Dassow

Four years before Naomi entering the Lord’s presence!