NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. – Trident Medical Center marked a major milestone on Friday as it celebrated its 50th anniversary with heartfelt reflections from doctors, staff, and patients who have been part of its journey since the beginning.
The celebration was more than just a look back—it was a reminder of how far the hospital has come since its doors opened in July 1975. What started as Trident Regional Hospital, a 220-bed facility with an emergency room, has now grown into Trident Medical Center, a modern healthcare provider with 312 beds and six affiliated care centers across the Lowcountry.
A Full-Circle Moment for Staff and Patients
One of the most emotional reflections came from Lashauna Barron, a current employee and the third baby ever born at Trident.
“Every day as I constantly walk through the hallways, I think ‘Wow, I was born here,’ and it’s like full-circle. Now for the hospital to be turning 50, that’s a major milestone,” she said.
First Surgeon Shares His Memories
Dr. Clarence William Wimberly, who performed the first surgery at Trident in 1975, also looked back on the early days with pride.
“I look back now and it feels wonderful, but when you’re in your 20s you just take it in stride. It didn’t seem like anything wonderful, but it does now,” Dr. Wimberly shared.
A Hospital That Grew With Its Community
Over the decades, Trident Medical Center has expanded its services and facilities to meet the growing needs of the Lowcountry. From Moncks Corner to St. George, the hospital now serves patients across a wide region with advanced care options and specialty services.
In 2024 alone, officials say the hospital invested hundreds of millions of dollars in the community. These funds went toward charity care, uncompensated treatments, employee salaries, and new construction to support ongoing expansion efforts.
Longtime Staff Member Reflects on Hospital’s Growth
Few people know the hospital’s growth better than Bonnie Johnson, who has worked at Trident for 50 years.
“So it’s been a pleasure to see them grow – Moncks Corner, St. George, all the places. If anybody wants a place to work, I think this is an awesome place to work,” Johnson said.
Trident Medical Center’s 50-year journey is a story of dedication, community service, and continuous growth. What began as a new regional hospital in 1975 has become one of the Lowcountry’s most trusted healthcare providers. The celebration brought together generations of medical professionals and patients, all connected by a place that has meant so much to so many. With a strong foundation and a commitment to care, Trident Medical Center looks ready for the next 50 years.
