In the Words of a Family House Donor

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Despite all the wonders and joy that happen at SECU Family House, our hearts break when we learn the passing of a former guest. The passing of Bill Patterson in 2020, whose medical journey and stay were documented in a Family House Diary a few years ago, was certainly no exception. 

Our guests are often members of a caring community back home. It's not unusual for someone to make a gift to Family House to ensure our guest room rates remain affordable so other families, like their lost loved one, can stay here while receiving life-saving medical treatment at UNC Hospitals

A few weeks ago, Chief Chris Blue of the Chapel Hill Police Department made a memorial gift in Bill's name. Here's why, in Chief Blue's own words:

Bill PattersonWhy did you make a gift in honor of Bill?

Bill was such a special person and we at CHPD had immense respect for him.  Bill began his law enforcement career in Charlotte as part of the Reserve Officer Program, eventually becoming a full-time law enforcement officer. During his career in law enforcement, Bill attended the FBI National Academy, graduating in the 149th Class. Bill retired as the Deputy Director of Alcohol Law Enforcement (ALE) in 2000. He then served as a lieutenant in the Chapel Hill Police Department’s Reserve Officer Program. He was also active in the North Carolina Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). When his sons, Will and Chris, joined the Durham Highway Fire Department (DHFD), Bill continued his passion for public safety and became a volunteer firefighter to serve with his sons.

We know that Bill and his family spent time at Family House and that, in doing so, they were able to share important moments that Bill’s family will treasure now that he has passed.  His wife, Julie, went out of her way to stress to me how wonderful Family House was for them during their most trying times.  It was because of these experiences that Julie has asked us to honor him by supporting Family House.

Why is FH important, in your opinion?

SECU Family House provides affordable, convenient, and safe housing for patients and their loved ones who are undergoing treatment at UNC Hospitals. I have seen, first hand, the impact that Family House has had for families who must travel long distances to support a loved one who is receiving care here at UNC.  The accessibility and comfort they experience at Family House is truly impactful.

Why is it important that our local community supports FH through volunteerism or financial giving?

Family House provides essential support to families who are in our community during their most difficult times. Volunteering or providing financial support helps these families focus on what’s most important; supporting their loved ones.

We're so grateful to Chief Blue, and all of our donors past and present, for the support that allows Family House to continue serving our mission to help patients and caregivers when they need a safe, affordable, and nurturing place to stay.

Photo: Former Guest Bill Patterson

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