French Hospital Medical Center Unveils the Magnificent New Stained Glass Windows Marking the Completion of the New Interfaith Chapel

SAN LUIS OBISPO, CA – April 18, 2024 – French Hospital Medical Center has completed the installation of  the much anticipated customized stained glass windows in the Swanson Family Chapel sponsored by longtime supporters Bill and Cheryl Swanson. The last panel went up this week. 

The custom and colorful stained glass windows have taken 3 years to create and is the final touch to completing the new interfaith chapel. The windows were designed by world renowned artist Elizabeth Devereaux, in Chico, who has more than 50 years of glass art experience. The theme of the exquisite artwork is “Ribbon of Hope” designed to create a breathtaking ambience reflecting hope and peace. 

“This has been a special and monumental project,” says Elizabeth Deveraux. “People in hospitals need comfort and warmth and that’s what we tried to create in an abstract way with 29 stained glass panels, weighing 250 pounds each, covering 700 square feet. It’s very rewarding to finally complete it.”

To enhance the healing of a patient’s body, mind, and soul, the Swanson’s made a transformational gift of $2.75 million to the Beyond Health campaign in 2021.

“We are happy to be able to help support the French Hospital Medical Center in their mission of advancing medical care, spiritual and holistic services for patients and our community,” says Bill Swanson. “Our hope is that the Swanson Family Chapel and its beautiful “Ribbon of Hope” stained glass windows by famous artist Elizabeth Devereaux, will bring comfort and inspiration to patients, family, visitors, staff and all who come to the chapel. "

With the Swanson’s generous support, French Hospital built the Swanson Family Chapel which accommodates up to 65 people, as well as patient gurneys. It’s a diverse, interfaith sanctuary for patients and families who seek solace and a place for quiet reflection. In addition to the stained glass windows, the chapel also features a majestic bell tower with a unique cast bell that was installed in October of 2021.

"These stained glass windows in the Swanson Family Chapel are awe-inspiring and create a sense of peace and tranquility. They remind us of the importance of hope and faith. I am so grateful to Bill and Cheryl Swanson who made this project possible with their incredible 

generosity, and we are eager to share this beautifully completed chapel with our community," said Patrick Caster, President and CEO of French Hospital Medical Center.

The Swanson Family Chapel is open for employees, patients and patients' families to enjoy. A small private dedication ceremony is planned for next month. 

To learn more about French Hospital Medical Center projects, visit gobeyondhealth.org. 

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About French Hospital Medical Center

French Hospital Medical Center is a state-of-the-art, 98-bed acute care hospital located in San Luis Obispo, California. French’s Oppenheimer Family Center for Emergency Medicine is the area’s most advanced emergency services center. The modern facility is home to the Copeland, Forbes, and Rossi Cardiac Care Center, is the county’s premier cardiac center, providing the latest cardiac and imaging technology, and the Hearst Cancer Resource Center offering free education, resources and support to cancer patients and their families. French Hospital Medical Center together with Arroyo Grande Community Hospital in Arroyo Grande, and Marian Regional Medical Center in Santa Maria, make up Dignity Health Central Coast, a network of hospitals, physicians, and outpatient services including physician offices, ambulatory surgery centers, technologically-advanced laboratories and imaging centers, and a full service home health agency. To learn more, visit dignityhealth.org/frenchhospital.