Patient Stories
From Patient to Project Manager: Drew Barefield’s Full Circle Journey
Drew Barefield’s remarkable journey from trauma survivor to a dedicated professional at Sacred Heart Hospital is a story of resilience, hope, and full-circle healing.
Dec 09, 2024
Donor Stories
Walmart Brings Holiday Joy to Studer Family Children's Hospital
This holiday season, we are filled with gratitude for our wonderful partners at Walmart, who sponsored a special ornament decorating activity for the patients at Studer Family Children’s Hospital. Through their continued partnership with Children’s Miracle Network, Walmart has made a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in our community.
Dec 08, 2024
Donor Stories
International Paper Grants Hope for New Mothers in Need
International Paper’s Pensacola Mill recently awarded $57,000 in grants through its International Paper Foundation, supporting 18 local organizations focused on education, hunger, health and wellness, disaster relief, and sustainability. Among this year’s recipients, Sacred Heart Foundation received $5,000 to support its Women’s Clinics and Maternal Health Bags initiative, which aims to address the essential postpartum needs of vulnerable mothers in the community.
Dec 08, 2024
News & Updates
Exciting Milestone: New Freestanding ER Coming to Perdido Key
We are thrilled to share that we are one step closer to opening a new freestanding ER in Perdido Key. A groundbreaking ceremony recently took place, bringing together Ascension executive leaders, caregivers, board members, and donors to celebrate this significant milestone. This event marked a major step forward in our commitment to expanding healthcare access to the Perdido Key and surrounding communities.
Dec 08, 2024
Patient Stories
From Gratitude to Giving: A Family's Heartfelt Donation
One special family found a meaningful way to give back to Studer Family Children’s Hospital, the place that had supported them through some of their most challenging times. As a former Children's Miracle Network Champion, Carter and his family knew firsthand the impact a small act of kindness could have on a child's spirit.
Dec 08, 2024
Donor Stories
14 Years of Holiday Cheer
In December 2023, Century 21 Blue Marlin Pelican Realty in Destin once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the community by donating children's Christmas gifts at the Emerald Coast Emergency Room for the 14th consecutive year. The generous contribution helps brighten the holidays for children who may find themselves in the emergency room during the Christmas season.
Nov 24, 2024
Patient Stories
From Patient to Changemaker: A Journey of Gratitude
The Sacred Heart Foundation holds a special place in the heart of one young volunteer, whose connection to the hospital goes back to her birth. Born prematurely with a cataract in one eye, Melina Snyder had her first surgery at just five weeks old. Although she was too young to remember, her parents recall the exceptional care she received. “My mom always tells me how much the care meant to them,” she shares. “I can’t remember it, but knowing how they treated me has stayed with my family forever.”
Nov 20, 2024
Patient Stories
Abraham's Brave Battle Against Cancer
Ashley Cook recalls the moment they found out their son Abraham had cancer. She says, “We have never been more terrified. It was horrific. I wouldn’t wish this experience on anyone.” Due to Abraham’s condition, the Cooks spent Abraham’s 6th birthday and nearly all of December in the hospital. While it was difficult for the family to spend the holiday season in the hospital, the team at Studer Family Children’s Hospital made sure that patients were still able to celebrate the holidays. Ashley says, “The team took such a personal approach to his care and showed our whole family so much love and kindness. The way the Escambia County Sheriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Pensacola Fire Department, and Pensacola Police Department came together to bless the children and families for Christmas Eve with the light show was amazing. That was a highlight for us.” The Cooks are grateful for Studer Family Children’s Hospital and the care they’ve received. From the people to the facilities, Studer Family Children’s provides a family atmosphere that provides comfort for children and their families. While nervous before, Abraham no longer sees the hospital as “scary” as sees it in a positive light. He says, “Our friends are there.”
Nov 12, 2024
Donor Stories
Step One Automotive: Drive Out Breast Cancer
Last month, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Sacred Heart Cancer Center was filled with hope, unity, and an outpouring of community support as we participated in Step One Automotive Group’s Drive Out Breast Cancer Campaign. It was a truly special moment as doctors, nurses, patients, and supporters came together to sign Pinky the Jeep, each signature a powerful symbol of solidarity and strength.
Nov 11, 2024
Donor Stories
A Heartfelt Thank You to Hyundai Hope on Wheels
Please join us in expressing our gratitude to Hyundai Hope on Wheels for their unwavering support of children and families battling childhood cancer at the Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope, Northwest Florida’s only pediatric cancer center.
Nov 06, 2024
Donor Stories
A Legacy of Love: Cristina’s Christmas Tribute
This year, Cristina Williams gave the invaluable gift of her time and creativity to our community, dedicating herself to decorating a beautiful Christmas tree for our cancer center.
Nov 05, 2024
Patient Stories
Brittany's Journey of Courage, Love, and Renewal
At just 35 years old, Brittany's life was upended with the words, “You have cancer.” A young mother of two boys, a daughter, and a dedicated first-grade teacher, Brittany faced not only a cancer diagnosis but also a struggling marriage, all amidst a global pandemic. In the midst of life's chaos, she discovered her own inner strength, resilience, and the TRUE meaning of hope.
Oct 20, 2024
Donor Stories
Lynn Wesson: A Lesson in Giving Back
Lynn Wesson was first introduced to the beauty of the Emerald Coast as a small child. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, she grew up in a loving, close-knit family. Her parents, who wanted their children to “see the world”, traveled extensively throughout the U.S. But a favorite destination, often visited, was Panama City.
Sep 12, 2024
Donor Stories
Jennifer and Jason: A Forever Bond
Jennifer Houston, an associate at Walmart, shares WHY she supports Studer Family Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.
Sep 12, 2024
Patient Stories
Together, for Natalee Bringing Hope and Healing
Imagine hearing the words, “your child has cancer.”
Sep 08, 2024
Donor Stories
Joan Curtis
This original painting was donated by artist Joan Curtis, a family friend of the Gribbins. It is in honor of Lulu Gribbin and her twin sister, Ellie Gribbin. Lulu’s life was saved on June 7th by the men and women who work at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Pensacola. The experienced trauma doctors and the nurses that night saved Lulu’s life after she was attacked by a shark in the gulf.
Aug 08, 2024
Patient Stories
Emergent Surgery to Strength
One Friday evening, Tara Spencer’s eight-year-old daughter Zara started complaining of an earache. While she seemed fine at first, her earache quickly worsened even after treating it with Tylenol and antibiotics. The area behind her ear became swollen and Zara was in excruciating pain, crying that she was unable to hear out of the affected ear. After a second emergency room visit on Saturday and another trip to see Zara’s primary care physician on Monday, Tara was advised to take her daughter to the Emergency Department.
Jul 14, 2024
Donor Stories
In Honor of Mother Mary
Eric and Peg Nickelsen, find opportunities “to help people who haven’t been helped before,” pouring time, service, and personal finances to uplift those in need, to “make things happen” for the good of the community and to improve the well-being and health of others.
Jul 14, 2024
Donor Stories
$100,000 Donation to Emerald Coast Family Birthplace
Helping our smallest patients survive, the St. Joe Community Foundation graciously provided a $100,000 grant to Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital's Family Birthplace to help with uncompensated care for our patients with withdrawal symptoms.
Apr 17, 2024
Donor Stories
ASHG Women's Diagnostic Center Donation
The Rosemary Beach Foundation's 2024 Girls Getaway event proudly honored the Sacred Heart WaterSound Women's Diagnostic Center with a check to assist with the purchase of Magview Software, a product that assists in diagnosing high risk patients with breast cancer.
Apr 01, 2024
News & Updates
A Milestone in Care: Introducing Our Neonatal and Pediatric Ambulances
At Studer Family Children’s Hospital, we are dedicated to providing exceptional care for every child, regardless of age or condition. To further our mission of delivering the highest standard of care, we are thrilled to announce an important milestone: the launch of our new Neonatal and Pediatric Ambulances. This new addition is designed to transport critically ill babies and children across Southern Alabama and Northwest Florida.
Dec 12, 2024
Patient Stories
From Patient to Project Manager: Drew Barefield’s Full Circle Journey
Drew Barefield’s remarkable journey from trauma survivor to a dedicated professional at Sacred Heart Hospital is a story of resilience, hope, and full-circle healing.
Dec 09, 2024
Donor Stories
Walmart Brings Holiday Joy to Studer Family Children's Hospital
This holiday season, we are filled with gratitude for our wonderful partners at Walmart, who sponsored a special ornament decorating activity for the patients at Studer Family Children’s Hospital. Through their continued partnership with Children’s Miracle Network, Walmart has made a meaningful impact on the lives of children and families in our community.
Dec 08, 2024
Donor Stories
International Paper Grants Hope for New Mothers in Need
International Paper’s Pensacola Mill recently awarded $57,000 in grants through its International Paper Foundation, supporting 18 local organizations focused on education, hunger, health and wellness, disaster relief, and sustainability. Among this year’s recipients, Sacred Heart Foundation received $5,000 to support its Women’s Clinics and Maternal Health Bags initiative, which aims to address the essential postpartum needs of vulnerable mothers in the community.
Dec 08, 2024
News & Updates
Exciting Milestone: New Freestanding ER Coming to Perdido Key
We are thrilled to share that we are one step closer to opening a new freestanding ER in Perdido Key. A groundbreaking ceremony recently took place, bringing together Ascension executive leaders, caregivers, board members, and donors to celebrate this significant milestone. This event marked a major step forward in our commitment to expanding healthcare access to the Perdido Key and surrounding communities.
Dec 08, 2024
Patient Stories
From Gratitude to Giving: A Family's Heartfelt Donation
One special family found a meaningful way to give back to Studer Family Children’s Hospital, the place that had supported them through some of their most challenging times. As a former Children's Miracle Network Champion, Carter and his family knew firsthand the impact a small act of kindness could have on a child's spirit.
Dec 08, 2024
Donor Stories
14 Years of Holiday Cheer
In December 2023, Century 21 Blue Marlin Pelican Realty in Destin once again demonstrated their unwavering commitment to the community by donating children's Christmas gifts at the Emerald Coast Emergency Room for the 14th consecutive year. The generous contribution helps brighten the holidays for children who may find themselves in the emergency room during the Christmas season.
Nov 24, 2024
Patient Stories
From Patient to Changemaker: A Journey of Gratitude
The Sacred Heart Foundation holds a special place in the heart of one young volunteer, whose connection to the hospital goes back to her birth. Born prematurely with a cataract in one eye, Melina Snyder had her first surgery at just five weeks old. Although she was too young to remember, her parents recall the exceptional care she received. “My mom always tells me how much the care meant to them,” she shares. “I can’t remember it, but knowing how they treated me has stayed with my family forever.”
Nov 20, 2024
Patient Stories
Abraham's Brave Battle Against Cancer
Ashley Cook recalls the moment they found out their son Abraham had cancer. She says, “We have never been more terrified. It was horrific. I wouldn’t wish this experience on anyone.” Due to Abraham’s condition, the Cooks spent Abraham’s 6th birthday and nearly all of December in the hospital. While it was difficult for the family to spend the holiday season in the hospital, the team at Studer Family Children’s Hospital made sure that patients were still able to celebrate the holidays. Ashley says, “The team took such a personal approach to his care and showed our whole family so much love and kindness. The way the Escambia County Sheriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Pensacola Fire Department, and Pensacola Police Department came together to bless the children and families for Christmas Eve with the light show was amazing. That was a highlight for us.” The Cooks are grateful for Studer Family Children’s Hospital and the care they’ve received. From the people to the facilities, Studer Family Children’s provides a family atmosphere that provides comfort for children and their families. While nervous before, Abraham no longer sees the hospital as “scary” as sees it in a positive light. He says, “Our friends are there.”
Nov 12, 2024
Donor Stories
Step One Automotive: Drive Out Breast Cancer
Last month, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Sacred Heart Cancer Center was filled with hope, unity, and an outpouring of community support as we participated in Step One Automotive Group’s Drive Out Breast Cancer Campaign. It was a truly special moment as doctors, nurses, patients, and supporters came together to sign Pinky the Jeep, each signature a powerful symbol of solidarity and strength.
Nov 11, 2024
Donor Stories
A Heartfelt Thank You to Hyundai Hope on Wheels
Please join us in expressing our gratitude to Hyundai Hope on Wheels for their unwavering support of children and families battling childhood cancer at the Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope, Northwest Florida’s only pediatric cancer center.
Nov 06, 2024
Donor Stories
A Legacy of Love: Cristina’s Christmas Tribute
This year, Cristina Williams gave the invaluable gift of her time and creativity to our community, dedicating herself to decorating a beautiful Christmas tree for our cancer center.
Nov 05, 2024
Patient Stories
Brittany's Journey of Courage, Love, and Renewal
At just 35 years old, Brittany's life was upended with the words, “You have cancer.” A young mother of two boys, a daughter, and a dedicated first-grade teacher, Brittany faced not only a cancer diagnosis but also a struggling marriage, all amidst a global pandemic. In the midst of life's chaos, she discovered her own inner strength, resilience, and the TRUE meaning of hope.
Oct 20, 2024
Donor Stories
Lynn Wesson: A Lesson in Giving Back
Lynn Wesson was first introduced to the beauty of the Emerald Coast as a small child. Born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, she grew up in a loving, close-knit family. Her parents, who wanted their children to “see the world”, traveled extensively throughout the U.S. But a favorite destination, often visited, was Panama City.
Sep 12, 2024
Donor Stories
Jennifer and Jason: A Forever Bond
Jennifer Houston, an associate at Walmart, shares WHY she supports Studer Family Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital.
Sep 12, 2024
Patient Stories
Together, for Natalee Bringing Hope and Healing
Imagine hearing the words, “your child has cancer.”
Sep 08, 2024
Donor Stories
Joan Curtis
This original painting was donated by artist Joan Curtis, a family friend of the Gribbins. It is in honor of Lulu Gribbin and her twin sister, Ellie Gribbin. Lulu’s life was saved on June 7th by the men and women who work at Sacred Heart Children’s Hospital in Pensacola. The experienced trauma doctors and the nurses that night saved Lulu’s life after she was attacked by a shark in the gulf.
Aug 08, 2024
Patient Stories
Emergent Surgery to Strength
One Friday evening, Tara Spencer’s eight-year-old daughter Zara started complaining of an earache. While she seemed fine at first, her earache quickly worsened even after treating it with Tylenol and antibiotics. The area behind her ear became swollen and Zara was in excruciating pain, crying that she was unable to hear out of the affected ear. After a second emergency room visit on Saturday and another trip to see Zara’s primary care physician on Monday, Tara was advised to take her daughter to the Emergency Department.
Jul 14, 2024
Donor Stories
In Honor of Mother Mary
Eric and Peg Nickelsen, find opportunities “to help people who haven’t been helped before,” pouring time, service, and personal finances to uplift those in need, to “make things happen” for the good of the community and to improve the well-being and health of others.
Jul 14, 2024
Donor Stories
$100,000 Donation to Emerald Coast Family Birthplace
Helping our smallest patients survive, the St. Joe Community Foundation graciously provided a $100,000 grant to Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Hospital's Family Birthplace to help with uncompensated care for our patients with withdrawal symptoms.
Apr 17, 2024
Donor Stories
ASHG Women's Diagnostic Center Donation
The Rosemary Beach Foundation's 2024 Girls Getaway event proudly honored the Sacred Heart WaterSound Women's Diagnostic Center with a check to assist with the purchase of Magview Software, a product that assists in diagnosing high risk patients with breast cancer.
