This story originally appeared in the Summer 2022 edition of Promise magazine.

Retired nurse Ginnie Abell gives the gift of real estate

Passionate. Committed. Dedicated. These words perfectly describe Virginia “Ginnie” Abell, a longtime avid supporter of Summa Health’s mission in all regards, from her remarkable career of over 50 years to her lifetime of extraordinary generosity. This now-retired registered nurse’s recent philanthropic venture led to giving the gift of… her home. 

Ginnie was surprised to learn that listing Summa Health as the beneficiary of her personal residence offers yet another way to support the health system she cares about deeply. 

“Summa Health is number one on my list of places to support,” said Ginnie. “Summa has provided my livelihood for over 50 years, so I feel it is imperative to give back.”

Ginnie began her first job as a nurse in 1964, shortly after graduating from St. Thomas Hospital School of Nursing. Setting a tone for a lifetime of generosity early in her career, she made her first gift to Summa Health when she received her first paycheck. So began decades of generous support that also continued through her 10 years as a supervisor in the Emergency Department and her important role in developing the Infection Control Department at Summa Health. 

Since retiring from Summa Health, Ginnie has served as a member of the Summa Health Senior Health Leadership Council and a Patroness member of The Circle of Women’s Health Philanthropists. 

Ginnie’s generosity will be recognized in the Juve Family Behavioral Health Pavilion, scheduled for opening on the Akron Campus in 2023.

How you can donate real estate to Summa Health

Often, it is difficult for a grieving family to deal with the expenses associated with inheriting a home. This can be a perfect opportunity to consider a primary or vacation property as a charitable gift.
Summa Health can recognize the value of that gift today. The positive impact of this type of gift is two-fold:

• Benefiting the donor’s family.
• Benefiting the patients and families who receive care at Summa Health.

For more information about a transfer-on-death deed and how you can make a difference at Summa Health, please contact Barbara Boyce at 330.375.6356 or boyceb@summahealth.org.