Michelle Sigler and her family have always been a family who serves; they have been on many mission trips with their church and volunteer often. Their most recent philanthropic pursuit has been at On With Life, both through volunteer time and a generous donation.
Michelle’s son, Luke, was was served at On With Life’s outpatient clinic in Ankeny beginning in November 2020, as part of his fight against brain cancer. During a difficult time, On With Life quickly became a special place for Luke and Michelle. Luke loved coming to therapy to see his therapists and continue challenging himself. As an artist, several of his occupational therapy sessions included some type of art, often in attempt to restrengthen his right hand through sketching.
After Luke passed in February 2022, the Sigler family knew they wanted to donate to On With Life
in his honor. Between their large support system and the many lives Luke touched in his 21 years, they quickly raised $15,000.
“At first we were going to donate art therapy supplies, but then our numbers started growing and we decided to dream big,” said Michelle. “We agreed to designate the funds to artwork for the new building. We know Luke would have loved that.”
During time at both the University of Iowa Hospital and On With Life, Luke and Michelle often sought out artwork to admire. These moments helped bring them peace amongst the chaos, and they hope the natured-themed pieces in On With Life’s outpatient center lobby will do just that for others.
“We are so thrilled that Luke is going to be a part of the new building even though he never got to have therapy there,” said Michelle.
In addition to the artwork, the family has also planted a tree that was gifted to them in honor
of Luke within the landscaping of the new building. A local metal artist will be working with them to build a bench by the tree in the near future.