Susan would be the first to tell you that she is most comfortable working behind the scenes. And that she has done, touching lives along the way in the McLeod Children’s Hospital, the Guest House at McLeod, the McLeod Hospice House, the McLeod Mobile Mammography Unit, and most recently, at the new McLeod Center for Cancer Treatment and Research

Susan Burley was hesitant to be featured in this story but accepted after understanding that her journey may encourage others who are considering a legacy commitment to McLeod Health.

Susan’s journey with healthcare began when her beloved nephew David Richardson was born. David had serious health issues and was not expected to live. However, the specialized care he received at a Children’s Hospital restored his quality of life for many years. David passed away two years ago at the age of 40.

Susan was an essential part of David’s care team. In this role, she immediately recognized the value of specialized pediatric care as well as the need for comfortable accommodations for out of town families. These experiences became the fuel for her passion and subsequent support for the McLeod Children’s Hospital and the Guest House at McLeod.

Susan and her late husband, Jerry, who tragically lost their own dear son Allen, were always active in helping children. They became involved with the McLeod Children’s Hospital when asked them to sell Children’s Miracle Network Balloons in their Shoney’s Restaurants. After great success with this endeavor, Susan was invited to join the Children’s Hospital Advisory Board. This service led to her becoming a member of the McLeod Foundation Board, serving two full terms.

After years of commitment to the Foundation’s Grants Committee, Susan has a greater appreciation for how carefully charitable gifts are put to the best use for patients and families. Her trust in the process led Susan and Jerry to make major contributions to the Guest House, the Hospice House, the Mobile Mammography Unit and the new Cancer Center.

Most recently, confidence in the stewardship of the Foundation, coupled with a history of support and service, led Susan and Jerry to confirm their legacy commitment. They chose to make the McLeod Foundation a beneficiary on a life insurance policy. This simple yet meaningful act will ensure that the Burleys’ generous journey will continue to touch lives for years to come.