Generational Care and a Lasting Gift
March 6, 2025
For longtime Gilchrist nurse Ann Carico, giving back to the healthcare institutions that supported her family for generations was a natural decision. Over the decades, GBMC has provided compassionate care to multiple generations of her family — from her grandmother in the 1960s, to her mother’s cancer diagnosis in the 1970s, to her father in the 1990s. Most recently, both she and her brother received care, solidifying her deep gratitude for the hospital’s enduring presence in her life.
“It’s been a generational benefit, and the hospital has given us so much,” Ann said. “I can’t say enough about the good care my family has always received.”
Her most recent personal experience with GBMC and Gilchrist came after a fall in March 2024, which left her unable to care for her brother, who was battling a brain tumor. In that difficult moment, Gilchrist became a valued resource, admitting her brother the next day and providing compassionate care until the end of his life. The seamless support provided by Gilchrist gave Ann immense relief, knowing he was in good hands.
A dedicated nurse herself, Ann has been with Gilchrist since 2007, drawn to the organization’s patient-centered philosophy. Before joining Gilchrist, she worked at a large hospital system where she specialized in wound and ostomy care. While she spent many years at that hospital, she found that Gilchrist offered her an opportunity for professional and personal growth.
“I just love our philosophy,” she expressed about Gilchrist. “There is diversity, equity, inclusion, and respect for end-of-life care. It is a wonderful place.”
Though she is retired, she remains active at Gilchrist, working around 40 hours a month, as needed. She appreciates the flexibility and the ability to continue making an impact on patients and families in critical moments.
Reflecting on leadership, she praised GBMC President and CEO John B. Chessare, MD, MPH, for his steady guidance, particularly during the pandemic and its political upheaval. Ann also commended Executive Vice President of Continuing Care and President of Gilchrist Cathy Hamel for her compassionate leadership and her dedication to excellence in hospice and elder care.
Her gratitude for the care she received at GBMC and Gilchrist inspired her to support both organizations through a charitable gift annuity which will provide her with a generous 9.2% lifetime of income and 2024 income tax deduction.
“It’s really just a thank you,” she said. Through planned giving, she hopes to contribute to the hospital’s continued growth and outreach programs that serve the community. With her gift, she has become a member of the Elizabeth Duncan Yaggy Society, which honors loyal benefactors who have provided for GBMC in their estate plans or life income gifts, like Ann’s charitable gift annuity.
Receiving the Yaggy Society medal and meeting Dr.Chessare was a great honor for her, symbolizing the deep connection she has with the institutions she holds dear.
Dr. Chessare presented Ann with her Yaggy Society medal. He said, “People like Ann Carico are what differentiate GBMC & Gilchrist from other institutions. Ann represents the very best of our healthcare system!”
As she looks to the future, she remains committed to supporting GBMC and Gilchrist.
“Because of my affection for both organizations, I decided to contribute a charitable gift annuity that benefits both GBMC and Gilchrist.” Ann Carico’s story is a testament to the lasting impact of compassionate care and the power of giving back.
Did You Know?
One of the most powerful ways to give as a loyal supporter of GBMC is to add a provision to your estate plan. You can choose to leave a percentage, a specific sum or the residual of your estate, according to your philanthropic goals. We are prepared to provide the necessary wording for you to share with your attorney and/or advisor that will help you leave a gift to GBMC through your will, trust, retirement plan (IRA or 401(k)) or life insurance policy.
For more information, please contact: Senior Director of Principal Gifts John C. Jeppi at jjeppi@gbmc.org, or visit: gbmcplannedgiving.org
