Leading by Example: How One Family’s Gratitude Fuels Support for Connecticut Children’s

Why Philanthropy Matters

Philanthropy isn’t just about giving—it’s about stepping forward so others will, too. For Bill and Patti Soucy, that means leading by example and helping bring others with them to support the lifesaving work happening every day at Connecticut Children’s.

The mission of Connecticut Children’s is best understood through the lives it changes, and few stories reflect that impact more powerfully than that of their family.

A Family’s Story Behind the Mission

As grandparents to seven grandchildren and four step-grandchildren, Bill and Patti have experienced firsthand the joy of a growing family, as well as the unimaginable fear that can come when a child’s health is at risk. When their oldest granddaughter, Brooke, was just 10 months old, her voice was extremely raspy. Despite multiple doctor visits, the initial diagnosis suggested nothing more than a persistent sore throat. Months passed without improvement, and her parents sought a second opinion.

When Care Changes Everything

That decision led them to Connecticut Children’s, where doctors quickly identified a rapidly growing tumor. Surgery was performed the very next day. What followed was a long and uncertain journey—one marked by repeated surgeries as the aggressive tumor continued to return. Over the course of two years and 13 procedures, her ability to speak diminished, and the family began learning sign language, preparing for what they believed might be her future.

But the team at Connecticut Children’s never stopped searching for answers. Their commitment to innovation and relentless care led to an experimental treatment during her 13th surgery. The results were extraordinary and the drug completely eliminated the tumor.

Today, Brooke is a healthy 17-year-old, thriving in her senior year of high school, preparing to graduate in June 2026, and eager to see what the future holds.

From Gratitude to Leadership

This is why Bill and Patti don’t just participate in the Geno for the Kids Charity Series—they stepped forward as the inaugural Honorary Chairs.

In partnership with Geno Auriemma of the UConn women’s basketball program, the charity event series supports critical care, groundbreaking research, and the compassionate teams who refuse to give up on children and families.

Leading the Way: Inaugural Honorary Chairs

Calling quiet, close-knit Tolland, Connecticut home, Bill serves as President of Electro Methods LP in South Windsor, while Patti is a longtime dental assistant, now retired. They are honored to support this effort—not for recognition, but out of gratitude—and by stepping forward, they hope to inspire others to do the same.

Learn more about the event.

Why Events Like This Matter

The need is ongoing. The impact is real. And leadership like Bill’s and Patti’s helps ensure that more children—like Brooke—have the chance to grow, thrive, and live healthy lives.

Join us or learn more about the Geno for the Kids Charity Series.

Connecticut Children's pediatric experts are advancing care for kids—Thanks to people like you.

Make A Gift

Latest Articles

Ways to Give

Make a Gift

Leave Your Legacy

Corporate Partnerships

Tribute Gifts

More Ways to Give

Whoops!

Leading by Example: How One Family’s Gratitude Fuels Support for Connecticut Children’s

Why Philanthropy Matters

A Family’s Story Behind the Mission

When Care Changes Everything

From Gratitude to Leadership

Leading the Way: Inaugural Honorary Chairs

Why Events Like This Matter

Connecticut Children's pediatric experts are advancing care for kids—Thanks to people like you.

Latest Articles

Changing the Future of IBD Care with Gut-on-a-Chip

Quinnipiac Students "Light the Way" Raising $257,978 for Connecticut Children's

A Visit with Clinical Social Worker Kayla Doucette

Ways to Give