Boniface DeRoo’s last will and testament, pictured here, launched what is now the Summa Health System — Akron Campus.

Living generously with planned giving to Summa Health

This story originally appeared in the Winter 2020 edition of Promise magazine.

“It takes a noble person to plant a seed for a tree that will one day provide shade to those whom he may never meet.” — Anonymous

In much the same way, those who include Summa Health in their estate plan are investing in the health and well-being of future generations by living generously today. Each gift commitment also sets an inspirational example for others to follow. Through a bequest in one’s will, a life insurance policy, an IRA, or an income-producing gift, those who live generously in the present establish a family legacy that will help to ensure that Summa Health remains a strong, vibrant healthcare resource for the Akron region today and tomorrow.

Summa Health honors individuals and families who have made future gift commitments with membership in the Charles Deering Legacy Society, recognizing those who have the vision — and nobility — to see beyond their lifetime in support of those whom they may never meet. 

Recent new members include:

• Verna J. and Robert Hancock and Florence S. Weaver, who in 2019 were inducted posthumously into the Thomas W. Cornell Philanthropic Leadership Society for cumulative giving of $1 million or more to Summa. 
• Beverly Smith, whose estate gift will support cardiology research and education.
• The late Margaret Metzger, whose gift provides significant support for Summa Health nurses.
• Dr. Scott and Margaret Weiner, whose generosity also is recognized on a plaque outside a patient room in the new tower.
• Dr. William E. Moats, for his support of the Sports Medicine Teaching Center.
• Dr. Michael and Casey Hughes, for their support of the Cardiovascular Fellowship program at Summa.

Summa Health is grateful to these and all members of the Charles Deering Legacy Society for living generously today on behalf of future patients and families of the Akron region.

For more information about establishing a lasting legacy at Summa Health, contact Barbara Boyce, senior director of gift planning, 330.375.6356 or boyceb@summahealth.org.