Donor Stories

Byron Woodman and Lee McGowan provide an integrated approach to philanthropy through their financial services company as well as their own planned giving initiatives.

Positive experiences as a patient at Emerson inspired Paul Birch to begin making gifts to the hospital. "Without significant support from the community," he explained, "it will be difficult for Emerson to offer the breadth of services that the community desires to have available locally.”

George and Jean Wiltsee have helped make Emerson a better place in a variety of ways — as corporators, through volunteering, and with planned giving. “It’s wonderful to have the hospital nearby and we are pleased to support it," said Mr. Wiltsee.

Joanne Armstrong’s support for Emerson began in the early 1960s as a volunteer. Over the years, her involvement and the care her family has received have helped her appreciate the growth and progress made by the hospital in recent decades.

Creating a legacy means making a difference to an organization. Lynn Martin has done just that through her strong commitment to Emerson Hospital, which has grown over the years.

Emerson’s continued excellence in quality and innovation helped motivate the Stanskys to support each of the hospitals recent capital campaigns, in addition to a bequest.

A former member of Emerson's medical staff, Henry Vaillant, MD, maintains his connection to the hospital through planned giving. “We want to support the hospital for the next generation,” he explains, “so I crafted a small legacy that will continue to generate an annual contribution.”