Gail Manwell Gaustad: Believing in the Importance of Exceptional and Passionate Local Care

Gail Manwell Gaustad, Cooley baby and daughter of CDH surgeon Edward Manwell and Northampton pediatrician Claire Manwell, always knew she wanted to support the hospital. “Of course I want to support Cooley Dickinson,” she said, believing, as her parents did, in the importance of a local hospital that never sacrifices expertise.  Growing up, Gail saw firsthand the balance her parents maintained between their careers and family life. She recalled, “My mother would care for her patients–which included making house calls–manage the household, and even hem school dresses. On Christmas mornings, my siblings and I waited to open our gifts until our parents had finished their rounds.”  To honor them and her commitment to a strong hospital close to home, Gail recently established a charitable gift annuity that supports her future, while carrying forward the compassionate care her parents championed. They included the hospital in their estate plans, and when she joined the Caleb Cooley Dickinson Society, she asked, “Please add my maiden name, Manwell,” ensuring the connection with her parents would be known.