On June 27, 2024, Methodist University Hospital celebrated the grand opening of its Garden Chapel Pavilion, a transformative space designed to offer comfort, respite and tranquility to patients, families and caregivers.

What was once a 1970s concrete cooling tower slated for demolition has been reimagined into the Garden Chapel Pavilion, a peaceful retreat made possible by a seven-year, $4.3 million donor-funded effort. The project blends architectural vision with community generosity to create a true sanctuary for healing.

The Garden Chapel Pavilion stands as a testament to the generosity of donors, the resilience of hospital Associates and the health system’s ongoing commitment to exceptional care. It offers a meaningful space for reflection within the heart of the hospital.

Beyond its beauty, the Garden Chapel Pavilion is designed to nurture body, mind and spirit. Lush landscaping, inviting benches and an open-air layout provide moments of peace and connection for all who visit. A particularly cherished feature is The Healer’s Touch, a hand-crafted statue donated by Chief Nursing Officer Katie Lea. Symbolizing the empathy and dedication of nurses, the statue serves as a powerful tribute to their unwavering care and compassion.

This installation honors the essential role nurses play in supporting patients and families, and reflects the values that define Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare.

Laughter, music and excitement filled the air at Le Bonheur Children's Hospital as patients, families and Associates celebrated the grand opening of Seacrest Studios in May 2023. A partnership with the Ryan Seacrest Foundation, this state-of-the-art broadcast media center offers young patients a creative escape, a platform for self-expression and a source of joy during hospital stays.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony featured Ryan Seacrest, Memphis Grizzlies star Jaren Jackson Jr., actress Kat Graham and country singer Jordan Davis. But the true stars were the children who bring the studio to life with their creativity and imagination.

"This is the 12th Seacrest Studio nationwide, with more to come,” said Seacrest. “I’m thrilled to welcome Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital to the Seacrest Studios family. This space will create life-changing memories for patients and families.”

The 1,275-square-foot glass-enclosed studio allows patients and visitors to witness the magic inside. Kids can host their own shows, play games, watch live performances and interview celebrity guests. A closed-circuit network ensures programming reaches patients unable to leave their rooms, bringing joy and connection hospital wide.

More than just a ribbon cutting, Seacrest Studios represents a lasting investment in the emotional well-being of Le Bonheur’s young patients.

When Reggie Smith Jr. lost his life in a 2018 car crash, his decision to be an organ donor saved 67 lives—including Ebony Jordan’s.

On what would have been Reggie's 31st birthday, his mother, Tremetrius Barnes, and brother, ARTavius Veasey, met Ebony in an emotional gathering at Methodist University Hospital. Surrounded by family, friends and transplant professionals, they embraced her with love and gratitude.

"It’s a blessing for him to give his organ to you," Tremetrius told Ebony.

For Ebony, meeting Reggie’s family was a chance to express profound gratitude. Diagnosed with nephrotic syndrome as a child, she spent nearly 30 years on dialysis before receiving her transplant.

"I was cooking when I got the call. I turned the stove off and was ready to go,” Ebony recalled. "I always tell them how grateful I am."

Reggie’s commitment to organ donation was personal. Both his mother and brother had received life-saving kidney transplants, inspiring him to register as a donor.

"When I heard he helped 67 people, I was stunned," ARTavius said. "I can’t even imagine 67 people in one room."

Their story is a powerful reminder of how one donor can change countless lives. Reggie’s generosity proves that even in loss, hope endures.

At a 2023 conference, Dr. Michael McDonald, medical director of Cardiac Services at Methodist Le Bonheur Germantown Hospital, learned about Hearts for Ukraine, an organization supplying critical medical aid to the war-torn country. Recognizing an opportunity to help, he rallied MLH Cath Lab teams to donate newly expired yet usable supplies.

With meticulous quality checks by Bio-Medical Engineering, the first shipment arrived in Kharkiv in spring 2024, delivering essential cardiology supplies to frontline medical teams.

"Your generosity has allowed us to diagnose and treat more effectively, reducing fatalities and improving lives,” wrote Valery Boiko, director of Ukraine’s National Academy of Medical Sciences.

To date, MLH teams have donated an estimated $100,000 in supplies—and efforts continue to support Ukraine with additional shipments.

For over a century, Le Bonheur Club has shown how community-driven efforts can change lives. Founded in 1923, the Club celebrated its centennial in 2023, marking a legacy of volunteerism and fundraising that continues to shape Le Bonheur Children's Hospital.

What began as a small group sewing clothes for orphans has grown into a powerful force supporting world-class pediatric care. Since championing the hospital’s opening in 1952, Club members have played a key role in Le Bonheur’s success—operating the gift shop, planning patient events, volunteering with therapy dogs and raising funds for critical programs.

Their impact extends far beyond service. The Club’s fundraising efforts have been instrumental in the hospital’s growth, beginning with a $2.2 million gift that helped build Le Bonheur. Recent contributions include funding a pediatric ambulance, donating $100,000 in toys annually, sponsoring a full-time music therapist, offsetting Seacrest Studios costs and pledging $500,000 toward Le Bonheur Green, an interactive outdoor space.

Beyond patient-focused programs, members also celebrate Le Bonheur’s caregivers—hosting events for Doctors’ Day, Nurses’ Week and other occasions to recognize their dedication.

“The collective heart of the hospital staff, families and Club members is what makes Le Bonheur special,” said Club member Lala Dando. “We love keeping that spirit alive for each generation.”