“Cindy’s Quilt” mural tells a story of love, hope & gratitude

Gracing the side of the Sentara Brock Cancer Center parking deck, “Cindy’s Quilt” is a true work of art that touches the hearts of every patient, family member and visitor who witnesses the grand beauty of this meaningful mural.

Yet, the vibrant quilt pattern painted on the wall is more than a mere decoration — it tells a story of hope, love and gratitude. When Sentara Executive Vice President & Chief People Officer Becky Sawyer and her family lost her sister to cancer in 2011, finding a way to honor her legacy wasn’t easy. Cindy was a dear sister, a loving mother, grandmother and cherished friend to many.

More than 10 years later, Becky and her mother, Pam Cox, worked with the cancer center art committee to select an artist to bring their vision to life to celebrate Cindy and honor the healthcare heroes who supported Cindy and her family. “Cindy’s Quilt” was created in collaboration with Carl Medley III, a talented local artist with strong ties to Sentara. He wanted to portray the feeling of being wrapped in the love, comfort and security that a quilt provides.

The quilt pattern includes fluttering butterflies, symbolizing transformation and new beginnings. Hearts resonate with love and pennies signify “pennies from heaven,” small blessings we still receive from those who have passed.

Becky explains, “It is how she lived — a life always present, forever generous. Our hearts ache in her absence, but her essence — embodied in this mural — reminds us all to live with love.”