Latest Foundation Stories and News

Patient Stories

Rebecca’s Story: A Journey of Strength and Healing

When Rebecca Perando rang the bell at Sacred Heart Bay Hospital, it marked the end of her breast cancer treatment and the beginning of a new chapter in her life. The bell symbolizes hope, courage, and survival, and for Rebecca, it was a moment she will never forget.

Nov 10, 2025
Donor Stories

A Legacy of Care: Honoring Maureen Gallagher

Maureen Gallagher was a beloved Radiation Therapist at Sacred Heart Cancer Center who brought warmth, humor, and compassion to every patient she treated. She had a remarkable ability to turn even the most difficult days into moments of hope and reassurance. Patients often said they looked forward to their treatments simply to see Maureen and experience her encouragement and care.

Oct 13, 2025
Donor Stories

A Partnership That Saves Lives: Destin Charity Wine Auction Supports Level II NICU

Since 2006, the Destin Charity Wine Auction has been a dedicated partner of Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, helping to advance care for our smallest and most vulnerable patients. Over the past 19 years, their generosity has contributed $3.1 million in lifetime giving, leaving a lasting impact on families across our community.

Oct 13, 2025
Patient Stories

Six Battles. Six Triumphs. One Unbreakable Spirit.

Mary Muller has faced cancer six times, and she’s beaten it six times. Most recently, she overcame pancreatic cancer, one of the most challenging diagnoses to survive.

Oct 13, 2025
Patient Stories

A Double Blessing: The Howard Twins’ Journey

Marissa Howard, 35 weeks pregnant with twins, was anticipating a routine check-up at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Family Birth Place. Shortly after arriving at Maternal-Fetal Medicine with her husband Austin, she underwent a Doppler ultrasound measurement, used to gauge how well blood was flowing to her babies. 

Sep 17, 2025
Donor Stories
News

A Gift of Connection: Angel Eye Cameras for NICU Families

At Studer Family Children’s Hospital and Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, we know how hard it is to be away from your baby in the NICU. That is why this September, for NICU Awareness Month, we are installing 82 Angel Eye cameras.

Sep 16, 2025
Patient Stories
Donor Stories

Stuffed Animal Pet Adoption Day Brings Comfort and Smiles

Everyone wants something soft and comforting to hold when they’re not feeling their best. This fall, pediatric patients at the Children’s Hospital experienced a day full of joy and imagination during our Stuffed Animal Pet Adoption Day. Each child had the chance to pick out a favorite stuffed animal, give it a name, and officially “adopt” it—with an adoption certificate to make it all official.

Nov 10, 2025
Patient Stories

Rebecca’s Story: A Journey of Strength and Healing

When Rebecca Perando rang the bell at Sacred Heart Bay Hospital, it marked the end of her breast cancer treatment and the beginning of a new chapter in her life. The bell symbolizes hope, courage, and survival, and for Rebecca, it was a moment she will never forget.

Nov 10, 2025
Donor Stories

A Legacy of Care: Honoring Maureen Gallagher

Maureen Gallagher was a beloved Radiation Therapist at Sacred Heart Cancer Center who brought warmth, humor, and compassion to every patient she treated. She had a remarkable ability to turn even the most difficult days into moments of hope and reassurance. Patients often said they looked forward to their treatments simply to see Maureen and experience her encouragement and care.

Oct 13, 2025
Donor Stories

A Partnership That Saves Lives: Destin Charity Wine Auction Supports Level II NICU

Since 2006, the Destin Charity Wine Auction has been a dedicated partner of Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, helping to advance care for our smallest and most vulnerable patients. Over the past 19 years, their generosity has contributed $3.1 million in lifetime giving, leaving a lasting impact on families across our community.

Oct 13, 2025
Patient Stories

Six Battles. Six Triumphs. One Unbreakable Spirit.

Mary Muller has faced cancer six times, and she’s beaten it six times. Most recently, she overcame pancreatic cancer, one of the most challenging diagnoses to survive.

Oct 13, 2025
Patient Stories

A Double Blessing: The Howard Twins’ Journey

Marissa Howard, 35 weeks pregnant with twins, was anticipating a routine check-up at Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast Family Birth Place. Shortly after arriving at Maternal-Fetal Medicine with her husband Austin, she underwent a Doppler ultrasound measurement, used to gauge how well blood was flowing to her babies. 

Sep 17, 2025
Donor Stories
News

A Gift of Connection: Angel Eye Cameras for NICU Families

At Studer Family Children’s Hospital and Ascension Sacred Heart Emerald Coast, we know how hard it is to be away from your baby in the NICU. That is why this September, for NICU Awareness Month, we are installing 82 Angel Eye cameras.

Sep 16, 2025