Each time our office assists a donor in making a planned gift to MUSC, we often hear the phrase “I’m glad to give back to a place that has given me so much.” Whether it is a graduate, a faculty member, a grateful patient, or a family, we find that the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) has provided many individuals with gifts that are priceless.  

When I chose to make my planned gift to the Hollings Cancer Center (HCC) Lighthouse Fund for patients with gynecological cancer, I shared this same sentiment. The Lighthouse Fund was established by my late friend who was diagnosed with ovarian cancer. She created a fund that would provide assistance to other women battling the same disease that we both fought. My friend’s legacy continues as she has certainly left this world a better place by her gracious and giving heart. Witnessing her kindness created a domino effect and inspired me to give to her fund. And after all, you cannot put a price on friendship.  

I made a planned gift through my retirement account here at MUSC. Although small now, I will watch my gift value increase year after year. As a younger donor to MUSC, it was important to me to find a gift vehicle that would not impact my current cash flow, but still allow me to fulfill my philanthropic intentions. Whether you have chosen to give to your class scholarship, a named endowed fund, or to a patient assistance fund, I hope that you, too, find yourself saying the same words: I’m glad to give back to a place that has given me so much.  

Wishing each of you a happy and healthy October! 

Natalie