A Lasting Legacy for Lutheran

Dennis Tuveson was married to the love of his life, Betty, for 40 years. When Betty was diagnosed with dementia in the last years of her life, Dennis lovingly cared for her at home. Then one evening Betty fell and was injured. Dennis was hesitant when advised that Betty must be moved to inpatient hospice care. Care workers from Collier Hospice arrived and arranged for Betty to be cared for by Lutheran Hospice at the Collier Hospice Center.

Betty was cared for with dignity and love until her final days and Dennis was with her most of that time. She slipped into a coma at one point, and then when Dennis came to visit, she awoke and they took a “walk down memory lane.” For three hours they talked and reminisced about their wonderful life together. Then Betty went to sleep and passed peacefully. Although very sad, Dennis felt very blessed to have been given this special time with Betty. He is grateful for Collier Hospice Center and the “angels without wings” who provide care with warmth and respect for those in need.

As Dennis was attending to personal matters following the loss of his Betty, he remembered that he had purchased a life insurance policy. Dennis wanted to offer a “small token on his part” to thank the caregivers for the wonderful care they had given to Betty. In memory of Betty, Dennis designated Lutheran Hospice as the beneficiary of the life insurance policy.

“I want to make sure that hospice care continues in our community and that others will be served as lovingly as my Betty,” he says.

Dennis is no stranger to Lutheran Medical Center. He has had numerous illnesses of his own, including a stroke and several heart attacks, and each time was treated at Lutheran. He now has an implanted defibrillator and jokingly refers to the device as “Sparky” or the “Energizer Bunny.” He is thankful for the Lutheran emergency department and also the cardiovascular team for saving his life — all the more reason he feels blessed to give to Lutheran.

A gift of life insurance is a way to extend your support to Lutheran. Estate gifts help leave a lasting legacy and allow Lutheran to serve more patients and families in the future. Donations may also be made through a will or trust, from appreciated stock or retirement funds. Your gift in any amount advances Lutheran’s mission and is appreciated.

To discuss opportunities to support our foundation, please connect with Kathie Repola, CFRE at 303.467.4802 or katherine.repola@sclhealth.org.