Couple’s Gratitude Becomes Meaningful Gift
Ruth and Kenneth Kreismer, second and third from left, at their recognition ceremony.
Middlesex County residents Kenneth and Ruth Kreismer believe in supporting institutions that serve their communities well. As former patients of Hackensack Meridian JFK University Medical Center and Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center, they considered it a blessing not to have to travel long distances for needed services and important that their doctors were affiliated with both facilities.
The Kreismers recognized that funding is critical to maintain and expand hospitals—their equipment, technology and services—and attract excellent medical providers committed to compassionate care. “Our belief was that if we appreciate these hospitals, we should help them, including through our estate plan.”
Once they decided to include the hospitals as beneficiaries of their estate, they reached out to their investment advisor and attorney to identify resources they could use to help the hospitals, “while not placing a burden on our daily living.” They also met with Jacqueline Bartley-Oxley, J.D., vice president of Gift Planning at Hackensack Meridian Health Foundation. “We effortlessly designated our gifts to areas in the hospitals that meant the most to us.”
“We are so grateful for Ken and Ruth Kreismers’ generous gifts, benefitting the Physical Therapy Department at Hackensack Meridian JFK Johnson Rehabilitation Institute and JFK University Medical Center’s cardiology service line,” says Sheri A. Marino, MA, CCC-SLP, executive director, Hackensack Meridian JFK University Medical Center Foundation.
“Ruth and Ken’s investment, which we deeply appreciate,” adds Stephen Maher, MHA, executive director, Hackensack Meridian Raritan Bay Medical Center Foundation and Hackensack Meridian Old Bridge Medical Center Foundation, “was a direct result of the supportive care provided by the Old Bridge Medical Center Emergency Department’s technicians, nurses and physicians.”
The couple encourages others who can to support the Hackensack Meridian Health hospitals in their own communities. “It was a very gratifying experience to make these commitments.”
“Ken and Ruth’s meaningful legacy gifts have left an indelible mark on our hospitals, and they have touched us all,” says Jacqueline.
You, too, can support exceptional health care in your community with a gift in your estate plan. Contact Jacqueline M. Bartley-Oxley, J.D., vice president of Gift Planning, at 848-308-5039 or giftplanning@hmhn.org to learn more.