A Legacy of Care

Over 15 years, Dr. Dashiell and Dr. Darnauer of Sterling Family Care have cared for thousands of patients across Rice County and beyond. Their work has touched lives in countless ways—from preventive care and family medicine to guiding patients through life’s most important health decisions. When they started their journey in 2009, they were the first female physicians to practice in Rice County—a historic step that opened doors for women in medicine locally. Over the past decade and a half, their commitment has gone far beyond breaking barriers.

“It has been the honor of our careers to walk alongside families—not only in the clinic, but through life’s biggest milestones,” says Dr. Dashiell.

Welcoming New Life at the Family Birth Center

Perhaps the most heartwarming part of their work has been at the Family Birth Center at Rice Community Hospital, where they have delivered more than 730 babies. Each delivery represents a story of hope, family, and new beginnings—right here in our community.

“Bringing new life into the world is something we never take for granted,” adds Dr. Darnauer. “Every single baby is a reminder of why we do what we do.”

Grateful for Our Community

None of this would be possible without the trust and support of the families of Rice County. For 15 years, you have welcomed Dr. Dashiell and Dr. Darnauer into your lives—not just as physicians, but as partners in health and in life’s biggest milestones.

As we celebrate this anniversary, we want to say thank you. Thank you for trusting us with your care. Thank you for letting us be a part of your families. And thank you for building this incredible community with us.

Here’s to the next 15 years—and many more babies, families, and stories yet to come at the Family Birth Center at Rice Community Hospital.