As far back as she can remember, Susan Rockwell, R.N., wanted to heal broken hearts.
As a pediatric cardiology nurse at Texas Children’s Heart Center®, she dedicated her life to providing cardiac care to many young patients but always felt that she could give more.
Rockwell’s 26-year tenure at the Heart Center and the many life-saving treatments she saw pioneered there compelled her to make a planned gift to Texas Children’s Hospital.
“I’m amazed at what our cardiologists and other staff can do to save children every day in the Heart Center, and this is my contribution to that,” said Rockwell. Her present generosity also was inspired by a family tragedy that occurred years before.
William Blair, Rockwell’s older brother, was born with hypoplastic left heart syndrome, a lethal congenital defect resulting in an underdeveloped heart.
He died at only four days old.
“My brother was born in 1952 when medical knowledge of a child’s heart was very limited,” recalled Rockwell. “I believe Billy would have lived were he born today and had received the kind of treatment available at Texas Children’s.”
Although she never met William, Rockwell takes comfort in knowing that her support of Texas Children’s is a lasting tribute to his memory and will help future generations of brothers and sisters live longer, healthier lives.
“I’m not a wealthy woman, but I believe everyone should give back,” explained Rockwell.
By including Texas Children’s in her estate plan, Rockwell became inducted into the J.S. and Lillie Abercrombie Society, which recognizes individuals who have arranged planned gifts to Texas Children’s Hospital.
Rockwell continues to give back to Texas Children’s, only now as a risk management specialist.
Her charitable spirit embraces the animal kingdom as well. As a self-confessed greyhound devotee, Rockwell shares her home with a trio of retired racing dogs and volunteers with the local chapter of Greyhound Pets of America®.