In 2012, New Mexico rancher John Grubelnik faced a family emergency when his brother, George, suffered a severe throat injury. With no major trauma centers nearby, the family brought George to Penrose Hospital in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The situation was grim — a torn esophagus with about a 1% chance of full recovery. On top of that, due to their hasty departure, John and his family had no place to stay.
George’s physician told the family about what would become their refuge during the difficult weeks that followed: the John Zay Guest House.
A few short minutes’ walk away, the guest house hosts visiting families of patients at Penrose Hospital. The Grubelnicks — including John’s aging parents — were able to stay there and easily walk back-and-forth to Penrose as needed, while a surgeon saved George’s life and he began his healing journey.
Grateful for the care George received and the kindness and hospitality provided at the guest house, the Grubelnik family decided to pay it forward by commemorating their family’s journey with a significant gift to the Penrose-St. Francis Health Foundation. Their generous support of the new Woody and Millie Ingram Guest House helps ensure that other families can access the same comfort and support that they found in their time of need.
A legacy of care: The evolution of the guest house model
The guest house model at Penrose-St. Francis Health Services began with a generous donation of a family home in 1980 that led to the creation of the John Zay Guest House at Penrose Hospital. Over the years, this facility expanded through additional charitable contributions and became a cornerstone of support for families with loved ones receiving care at Penrose.
As nearby hospital St. Francis Medical Center also grew into a major provider of care for patients from remote areas, the need for a similar facility emerged. The establishment of the Woody and Millie Ingram Guest House is a continuation of the Penrose legacy, providing families with a welcoming environment while their loved ones receive treatment.
For families of patients at St. Francis Medical Center, the Ingram Guest House offers a sanctuary during times of medical crisis. Whether it’s a newborn in the neonatal intensive care unit or a loved one undergoing cancer treatment, this guest house provides families with a comfortable, welcoming place to stay while remaining close to the hospital.
Fully supported by philanthropy, this 29,000-square-foot facility ensures that families can focus on their loved ones’ recovery without the emotional and financial strain of long commutes or costly accommodations.
The Ingram Guest House, which features 25 private suites, communal living areas, home-cooked meals, and scenic views of Pikes Peak, is more than just a place to stay. It provides a sense of normalcy and peace for families facing difficult situations, creating an environment where they can recharge, find support and remain close to their loved ones at St. Francis Medical Center.
Community collaboration: making the vision a reality
The creation of the Ingram Guest House was made possible through a remarkable community effort. The Housing & Building Association of Colorado Springs, through its philanthropic arm, HBA Cares, played a pivotal role in bringing the guest house to life. With the help of local builders, businesses and individuals, more than $3 million in services, materials and labor were donated to complete the project. This impressive collaboration represents one of the largest community-funded initiatives in the region’s history.
Pamela Ingram Bruni and her husband, Jerry Bruni, were lead supporters of the project, naming the guest house in honor of Pamela’s parents, Woody and Millie Ingram, who were known for their warmth and dedication to helping others. The guest house now stands as a testament to their legacy of hospitality and service.
A lifeline for families in need
The Ingram Guest House is a lifeline for families who might otherwise struggle to remain close to their loved ones during extended hospital stays. For many, being able to stay near the hospital during critical treatments means they can offer the support their loved ones need without the logistical and financial burdens of long-distance travel. This proximity also provides patients with peace of mind, knowing their family members are nearby and able to visit as needed.
The guest house supports the health and well-being of the whole family by offering a peaceful environment where they can rest, eat meals and find emotional support from others going through similar experiences. By easing these burdens, the guest house helps families focus on what matters most — being there for their loved ones during recovery.
Looking ahead: continued support for a lasting impact
As the Ingram Guest House continues to serve families in need, the Penrose-St. Francis Health Foundation is committed to ensuring that this vital service remains available to all who require it. Ongoing community support and philanthropy will play a crucial role in maintaining and expanding the guest house’s services, allowing even more families to benefit from the comfort and care it provides. Learn more about the Guest House Ministry.
