Michael and Stephen Clarke, co-owners of Hanto & Clarke General Contractors, have worn hard hats on construction sites across Pensacola.
But nothing prepared them—or their wives—for the moment they stepped into a hospital room and saw their newborns in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), surrounded by wires and monitors.
“It was our first child,” recalls Ashley Clarke, wife of Stephen. “Becoming a parent is already overwhelming but seeing your tiny baby in the NICU—it’s terrifying.
The nurses made all the difference. They reassured us, taught us how to care for our baby, and made something so frightening feel a little more bearable.”
Stephen still remembers that first moment vividly. “It was that calming presence I’ll never forget when we stepped into the NICU.”
For Chelsie Clarke, wife of Michael, the shock was in the unexpected.
“We knew Colin might arrive early, but there was no indication he’d need NICU care. When he was born four and a half weeks early, the doctors acted instantly. They explained every step—what they were doing, why, and where they were taking him. They told us he was in the best hands possible, and they were right.”
Those first hours were a blur for both families, but one truth was crystal clear: in the NICU, trust and compassion aren’t just ideals—they’re lifelines.
“Having a newborn should be one of the most exciting moments of your life,” Michael says. “But when things don’t go as planned—when you have a premature baby, a baby with special needs, or a sick child—you have to know the staff is there to support you. At Sacred Heart, that trust is there every single time.”
Born and raised in Pensacola, the Clarke brothers have always believed strong healthcare is the foundation of a thriving community.
Their personal experiences with Sacred Heart’s care for children have only deepened that belief.
“Giving back is one of our core values,” Michael adds. “Sacred Heart is not only a client—it has touched our lives in the most personal way, through our children and family members. We know how vital the NICU is, and we want to help other families when they need it most.”
For Michael and Stephen, building isn’t just about structures—it’s about building a community of support.
“And that’s why we’re committed to our work with Sacred Heart,” Stephen says. “What they do changes lives and saves lives. There’s no greater work to be part of.”
Asia, a NICU nurse at Studer Family Children’s Hospital, puts it simply: “You can’t tell a mom this is just temporary—because in that moment, it feels like her world is falling apart.
But you can tell her her baby will never be alone, that there’s a whole team fighting for that child. One day, this will be just a memory, and there will be so many good moments ahead.”
The Clarke families know firsthand what it means to have a child in the NICU. Now, they’re paying it forward.
On August 15, 2025, they will join the Cat Country Cares for Kids Radiothon from 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. as the Presenting Sponsor, broadcasting live from the entrance of Studer Family Children’s Hospital.
Tune in and turn up to hear powerful stories of hope and healing from patient families, physicians, and community leaders. This year, all funds raised for the Bear Family Foundation Pediatric Oncology Center for Hope will support local children fighting cancer—ensuring they receive life-saving care close to home.
Your generosity can make that possible.
Give today. Give hope. Give local.
📍 Donate and learn more: https://bit.ly/CatCountry987CaresForKid
