At Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley, a newly renovated chapel offers a peaceful place for prayer and reflection. The quiet space is part of the hospital’s commitment to caring for the whole child and supporting families through every step of their healthcare journey.
Recently dedicated by hospital leaders, staff and community members, the chapel will help patients, families and employees find comfort during difficult moments. The renovation was made possible through the generosity of Vicky and Luis Flores Jr. and their family, whose support also established a permanent endowment to sustain Chaplain Services and ensure the ministry continues to provide compassionate care for generations to come.
Guided by Driscoll’s vision to improve the health and well-being of every child, chaplains provide compassionate spiritual and emotional care alongside medical treatment. As members of the interdisciplinary care team, they partner with physicians, nurses, child life specialists, and social workers to support families through crisis, grief, and uncertainty. Through bedside visits, prayer when requested, bereavement care, and a compassionate presence, chaplains help ensure every family receives holistic, family-centered care that respects their beliefs and traditions.
“Spirituality is how we find meaning, how we find purpose — it’s what we can lean on when we’re going through difficult times,” said Javier Maldonado, Lead Chaplain at Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley.
Helping affirm the faith and spirituality of patients — as well as providers — gives hope, said Maldonado. “I think hope is what gives strength to look at something that feels impossible or look at a very difficult time and still find the energy, the courage to keep pushing forward.”
Matt Wolthoff, President of Driscoll Children’s Hospital Rio Grande Valley, said the chapel’s dedication marks an important milestone for the hospital. “The chapel provides a quiet space for families, visitors and staff during times that can be very difficult,” he said. “Spaces like this are part of how Driscoll supports families beyond clinical care. This chapel reflects the compassion that is present throughout this hospital every day.”
“Thanks to this generous endowment, the Flores family has created a legacy that will enhance Chaplain Services in perpetuity, reflecting a deep commitment to healing the whole person, including mind, body and spirit,” said Yvette C. Padilla, director of Major Gifts for Driscoll Children’s Hospital Foundation.
Thoughtful Design
The chapel’s thoughtful design carries a deeply personal story.
More than 25 years ago, while expecting her second child, architect Laura Nassri Warren was told her daughter might have Turner syndrome and could live only 10 days. During that uncertain time, she found reassurance in the care and compassion of Driscoll Children’s Hospital.
“I will never forget the comfort I felt and how I knew that my daughter was going to have the best possible care,” Warren said of her experience connecting with Driscoll physicians. Her daughter was born healthy and is now pursuing a doctorate in cognitive neuroscience at the University of Notre Dame.
“I know the value that a space like this brings,” Warren said.
Warm lighting, a watercolor mural, and decorative glass that transitions from deep blue to white symbolize a family’s journey from uncertainty to hope. “Regardless of faith or background, hopefully this makes everybody feel that you’re not alone,” Warren said.
To learn more about Driscoll Children’s Hospital, its mission, and ways to support children and families across South Texas, visit driscollchildrens.org.
