Esther Boward officially became the first patient at the new ALMH yesterday morning.

Ironically, Boward had previously taken a tour of the hospital on March 12. Esther was struck with pneumonia on Sunday and her physician, Dr. Steven Kotteman, admitted her to the old hospital.

Pictures by Amy Denney

The last patient is prepared to leave the old hospital.

CEO Dolan Dalpoas high-fives staff.

Esther Boward is prepped for the move.

Just before dawn Esther is wheeled out.

Dalpoas greets Boward at the new hospital.

The transport team wheels Boward to her room.

Teresa Heidbreider explains the room's equipment to Esther.

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