When Sam Swope's wife, Barbara, began experiencing health issues, he knew she needed expert care. They immediately came to AdventHealth Altamonte Springs to seek medical attention. Diagnosed with acute leukemia, Barbara's treatment would be a long and difficult journey. The Swopes were devastated but remained faithful and optimistic.
If a person is diagnosed with acute leukemia, you hope for a miracle cure; an answer. We found the best answer we could possibly find in AdventHealth," said Sam. We did all we could, and I don't think anyone could have done more for Barbara than AdventHealth. They truly go the extra mile to serve their patients.
Sam felt everyone involved in Barbara's treatment and care was interested in her welfare. Doctors, nurses and hospital staff alike all worked to make her feel comfortable and happy. The personal, compassionate care really showed, especially in her final days. In the time spent at the hospital, they came to appreciate how much the staff meant to them and recognized how the skill to heal and the spirit to care were exemplified every day.
Sam and Barbara decided there was something exceptional about the hospital, helping them to make a decision to further support AdventHealth's mission to extend the healing ministry of Christ. The Swopes' generosity is based on an old Scottish Rite of Freemasonry philosophy: What we have done for ourselves dies along with us; what we have done for others and the world remains, and is immortal. They felt privileged to make a gift and become part of a support system that helps AdventHealth provide the best care for the community.
When Barbara passed, Sam derived his strength from Christ and gained comfort from knowing that he would someday see Barbara again. The Swopes' contribution to AdventHealth Altamonte helped to provide a healing garden, named the Barbara Swope Memorial Healing Garden, a place for meditation, reflection and relaxation. It is an inspirational place that gives patients, family members and staff an opportunity to get away from stress and focus on healing. The Swopes both found comfort in the healing garden, which is why it remains a special place for Sam.
"I've always been blessed with much more of this world's goods than I need. You can't take it with you, so you should help apply it where it can do the most good," said Sam.
