Carl and Anna Nichols "IRA Gift is a Win-Win for Eagle Society Couple"

Carl and Anna Nichols

While making a gift of an Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is a fairly new concept for most donors, it is one that John's Island residents Carl and Anna Nichols have contemplated for some time. The motivation for the couple's philanthropic involvement with Indian River Medical Center Foundation began several years ago, when Carl experienced a health crisis.

None of us ever know when we might need lifesaving medical care. Some people find out in the middle of the night, as Carl Nichols did. While Carl was hospitalized at Indian River Medical Center (IRMC) for a serious infection, his physician thought a blocked artery might be contributing to the problem. A heart catheterization was ordered. At the time, IRMC did not have the capability to perform the procedure, so Carl had to wait until treatment could be coordinated with an Orlando hospital. As his wife, Anna recalls, "We were at the mercy of when the Orlando hospital could fit us in. Anyone in our shoes today doesn't have to endure that, thanks to the generosity of donors who helped build The Heart Center."

When the opportunity arrived, Carl was rushed to Orlando. As he endured a difficult ambulance ride, his frightened wife, Anna, sped through the night in her own car, hoping to be at Carl's side when he arrived.

Carl, Anna and several family members have since required the services of IRMC. For Carl, who has struggled with cancer and heart problems, having an exceptional medical center nearby is essential. "Without a doubt, the doctors here have played a key role in extending my life," he said. Anna added, "Carl is alive because of Indian River Medical Center." The hospital is a selling point for Anna, a Vero Beach real estate agent. "I brag about the facility and share our positive personal experiences with clients." The Nichols' interactions with IRMC exemplify the meaning behind the hospital's motto, "The Right Care, Right Here." Indeed, IRMC was one reason Carl retired here. An exceptional hospital surrounded by "wonderful living conditions is hard to find anywhere else in the country," he noted.

Motivating Factors
Several factors influenced the couple's decision to support the Medical Center. First and foremost is their appreciation for its excellent care and facilities. According to Anna, the second reason is, "You never know when you will need a hospital. Carl's midnight ambulance ride was a turning point. I hadn't considered making significant contributions until then. That's when my thinking changed. Giving to the Medical Center is a gift to the community and yourself. Another equally important factor was community philanthropist Helen Post. "When a person like Helen asks you to do something, you give it serious consideration," Carl remarked. Carl joined the hospital advisory council at Helen's request. Reading The 21st Century Campaign Case Statement motivated him further. A retired advertising executive and experienced fundraiser, he was familiar with campaign plans. "This plan was superbly put together, carefully planned and documented. It promised to improve health care for every citizen in Vero Beach. It had great appeal to anybody who thought seriously about his life in Vero Beach."