The Optimistâs Daughter begins in New Orleans, Louisiana. The beginning of the novel takes place in a hospital in the bustling city during Marti Gras. After the Judge passes, the majority of the novel is set in Laurelâs childhood home, in her fatherâs hometown of Mount Salus, Mississippi.
The two largest hospitals in Huntington are St. Mary's Medical Center and Cabell Huntington Hospital. St. Mary's and Cabell-Huntington are jointly designated as the only trauma center in the region.
Community response to the care and services provided by Cabell Huntington Hospital was warm and welcoming. It soon became apparent that additional facilities would be required, and the hospital's Board of Trustees authorized a thorough study to determine Cabell Huntington Hospital's future role in the community.