As a retired health care executive, Chuck Stokes, along with his wife, Judy, know firsthand how important philanthropy is to health care systems. “Gifts to the Foundation go a long way to supplement needed equipment, services or new programs that are not in the hospital's annual operating budget,” Chuck said. “We want to continue to help people and make a difference.”

Thanks to their understanding of needs, as well as their generosity, Chuck and Judy are making a big difference for patients at our Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Breast Center.

The Stokes’ gift is the catalyst for a new project focused on redefining the patient experience at the Breast Center. As of late October 2023, intentional upgrades are in place to provide a calmer, more spa-like environment for patients to reduce the stress and anxiety many experience during their visits. 

The Stokes’ gift has replaced the old two-gown system with soft robes. Now, instead of an awkward and cold hospital gown, women can wear a warm robe while they await a mammogram and results, wrapping patients in love and care.

Other enhancements include a transformed sub-waiting area, plus soft music and soothing scents throughout the unit.

“I hope by creating a more comfortable patient experience, from a wellness framework, that all who visit the Breast Center will feel less anxious, as the waiting area will be appealing to their sense of touch, sight and smell,” Judy said.

Chuck’s inspiration for this visionary gift comes both from his wife and Judy’s mother.

“My motivation to support the Breast Center was to honor my wife, Judy, who as a nurse practitioner, has always advocated for women and children's health issues,” Chuck said. “Her vision to help decrease anxiety and create a more wellness-oriented Breast Center patient experience is the driving force and motivation.”

“My mom was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 58, and underwent a radical mastectomy,” Judy said. “Her strength, faith, and optimism carried her through, and she lived her life fully, completely, positively, and with a most caring heart, until the age of 105. I dedicate this remodeled sub-waiting area to her as a message of hope to all who walk through the doors."

The Stokes’ passion for providing a comfortable and calming environment at the Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children Breast Center is going to impact countless women in a positive way.

“In our faith, we are called upon to do ‘Mitzvot,’ (good deeds),” the Stokes said. “Our gift is a Mitzvah ... a good deed.”

When asked what she wished other people knew about this cause, Judy said, “I would hope they would know that the beneficiaries of the Foundation are the Huntsville Hospital Health System patients and Huntsville-Madison community. All the efforts, resources, time, events, and donors all contribute to the betterment of the patients, their outcomes, and their experience, while under the compassionate and skilled care of the Huntsville Hospital Health System.”