LACHLAN'S STORY

A family legacy for Duke Children's

By Kristen Ward

Pam and Gery Anderson are forever grateful for the care their grandson, Lachlan, received at Duke Children’s. Lachlan was prenatally diagnosed with what he calls a “special heart,” and after an inpatient stay and three heart surgeries, he is now a healthy, energetic seven-year-old who enjoys math and soccer.

“The team at Duke Children’s took care of us as a family,” shared Meg, Lachlan’s mother. “We had a beautiful experience.”

As part of their estate plan, Pam and Gery included a bequest in their will to support the Duke Children’s pediatric cardiac intensive care nurses and the resources needed for exceptional, compassionate care.

“It’s a gift you can’t imagine the ultimate outcome to, but it will be profoundly impactful and appreciated,” said Pam. “We want to provide the kind of support needed for families when they find themselves unexpectedly having to face challenges.”  

Pam and Gery’s commitment will ensure that future patients will continue to receive the excellent care that makes Duke Children’s such a special place. “It takes a community,” shared Meg, “to show love and support to these children and families in need.” 

“Everyone needs to know that there’s hope,” reflected Pam. “I hope our legacy is an amazing young child who is going to grow into adulthood because of the medical attention he received early – and because of that, he is going to have a full life. That would be the best legacy.”

In addition to their generous commitment to Duke Children’s, the Andersons have included a provision in their estate plan to support Alzheimer’s research in the Department of Neurology at Duke Health.