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The first time Shankar and Savithri Iyer had ever been to Cooper was in February 2011.

Shankar’s mother, Thangam Venkataraman, had been having trouble breathing and was complaining that she did not feel well.

Having heard good things about Cooper, the Marlton couple drove Thangam to the hospital’s Emergency Department, where it was quickly determined that the 75-year-old had suffered a massive heart attack.

“The doctors were wonderful,” Shankar said. “They started treatment right away.”

A day later, Thangam underwent open heart surgery to fix her heart muscle.

‘The surgery was successful, but her lungs were not working properly and she had a series of setbacks,” Savithri said.

Thangam passed two months later with her family by her side.

“My three sisters live in India, but they were able to get here before our mother passed,” Shankar said.

“My mother-in-law received excellent care,” said Savithri. “The doctors, nurses, social workers and all the staff were very, very helpful. We wanted to show our gratitude and do something in return.”

In honor of Thangam and in recognition of the care she received at Cooper, the Iyers recently made a generous gift to the Cooper Heart Institute.

The Cooper Foundation offers families a way to honor a loved one and recognize the care they received at Cooper through various giving opportunities.

Gifts that honor, celebrate or remember are meaningful ways to support the work being done every day to provide world-class programs and services to our patients, families and the community.

“Through our small donation, we hope we can help ensure that other people benefit from the care that Cooper provides,” said Savithri.

To learn more or to make a gift in honor or remembrance, click here.