Helen Rose Ream was a devoted Huntsville Hospital volunteer during her lifetime, and now her legacy will impact the health of the Huntsville community for years to come. The Foundation was notified in June 2020 about a bequest from Helen's estate totaling $434,000 -- one of the largest individual gifts the Foundation has ever received. These funds provided needed equipment for many departments across Huntsville Hospital, including Surgery, Anesthesia, the Regional Neonatal ICU, the Stem Cell Transplant Clinic and the Pathology Lab.

“This gift came as such a wonderful blessing to the Foundation. We only wish we could have known about it during Helen’s lifetime so we could have shared our deep appreciation,” said HHF President Sarah Savage-Jones. 

Helen also gave generously of her time during her life. She was a devoted volunteer in Huntsville Hospital’s gift shop and the medical records department for many years. She also served as secretary on the Auxiliary Board until retirement in 2003.

"It was through this service to the hospital with the Auxiliary that Helen became aware of many of the equipment needs that she specified in her estate,” said Pat Legg, Huntsville Hospital director of volunteer services. “Her consistent service instilled in her a deep love for Huntsville Hospital and a passion for the services it provides. She will always be remembered for her kindness and this lasting gift to our hospitals and patients.”

Helen will be memorialized with a plaque in the Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children’s Admitting/Surgical waiting area honoring her generous gift and legacy. 

“Impactful bequests such as the Ream estate are awe-inspiring,” Savage-Jones said. “Any gift to the Foundation, no matter the amount, makes a difference for the patients we serve every day. There are multiple giving options available that can align a donor’s passion with their philanthropy and legacy, allowing them to give back and make a difference in a greater way than they ever imagined possible.”