Santa Barbara Cottage Hospital loses a beloved member

A beloved member of the Cottage Hospital family has died. Sixty-five-year-old Janet O’Neill dedicated 33 years to the hospital as a spokeswoman and Director of Public Affairs. O’Neill was diagnosed with lung cancer. Shepassed away peacefully at the Serenity House on July 3.

O’Neill would respond to hundreds of requests from the media while always protecting patient privacy. Ron Werft, President of Cottage Health System released this statement:

“Janet O’Neill will be sorely missed by all of us at Cottage Health System. As Director of Public Affairs and Hospital Spokeswoman for 33 years, she captured and told our stories in such a professional and thoughtful manner. Her Irish wit, energy, enthusiasm, and passion for life and for work were her hallmarks. She was simply the best at everything she ever did.”

O’Neill is survived by her husband, two daughters and son-in law. A memorial was held in her honor last weekend.