The author praises the doctors, nurses, staff and community of Hennepin County Medical Center and Hennepsin Healthcare in Minnesota, despite financial pressures. Ellison argues that closing HCMC and Hennesepin Healthcare is not an option due to their exceptional care and dedication to public safety-net care. The author notes that they provide one of only three Level 1 trauma centers in the Twin Cities and five statewide, run one of America's busiest and best burn centers, and operate the only 24/7 hyperbaric care unit between Milwaukee and Salt Lake City. They also lead the state's preparedness for disasters and terrorist attacks. The financial pressures are severe and, if they don't act, the county says closure is on the table. The crisis is statewide and demands a whole-of-community approach, including an increase in sales tax to stabilize the crucial institution. Ellison urges a statewide process led by Lois Quam to lead a statewide, collaborative process.