Dan and Sue Camden, residents of The Glebe, have been honored with the Virginia Baptist Homes Foundation Influencer Award for their unwavering dedication and positive impact on the lives of others. Dan grew up in Rockbridge County, while Sue hails from Floyd County in southwest Virginia. Their paths crossed at Lewis Gale Hospital, where Sue worked in the emergency department and Dan was an internal medicine doctor. Their shared commitment to patient care and kindness led to a deep friendship, eventually blossoming into a marriage that has lasted 25 years.

Sue always aspired to be a nurse, a dream she fulfilled with a 3-year RN degree from Roanoke Memorial Nursing School. Her career spanned various roles, including head nurse on the med-surge floor and a long tenure in the ER at Lewis Gale. A pivotal moment in her career came when she transitioned to hospice care, inspired by her personal experience with her father. Sue’s work in hospice from 2005 to 2010, including at The Glebe, left a lasting impact on patients, their families and herself.

Dan’s fascination with the science of medicine was nurtured by supportive parents and siblings who pursued careers in dentistry and medicine. He earned a B.S. in Chemistry from Lynchburg College and a Pharmacy degree from Virginia Commonwealth University. Encouraged by a mentor, Dan pursued medical school at VCU, followed by a residency at Wake Forest. His journey from pharmacist to an internal medicine/geriatric physician exemplifies his dedication to understanding and improving human health.

Today, Sue and Dan draw inspiration from each other, their family, and friends. Sue regards Dan as a significant influence, while Dan values Sue as his confidant and respected partner. They have been active members of their church, Unity of Roanoke Valley, for over 20 years.

The Camden’s moved to The Glebe in January 2023, drawn by its country-like setting and the continuum of care it offers. For Sue, the community felt like home, reminiscent of her visits to patients there. Dan appreciates the comprehensive care available, ensuring they won’t burden their children as they age.

Sue aims to help revive the NODA (No One Dies Alone) program, coordinating volunteers to provide companionship to those in their final moments. Dan, active in the Residents’ Council, seeks to enhance communication and representation for higher levels of care residents.

The Camden’s are proud of their independent and happy adult children, two of whom live in Richmond and one in Charlotte. Their personal motto, “Be Kind,” reflects their approach to life and community service.

Dan’s contributions have included an End of the Year photo review of The Glebe campus and resident life, serving as a transporter of unsold items from the Thrift Shop to Goodwill, vice president of the Residents’ Council, and member of the poetry club. He also participated in the landscaping committee, promoting native plants across the community. Together, Dan & Sue have led nature walks around the Glebe grounds, identifying plants, trees, and occasional bugs. Sue has been active in the Thrift Shop and exercise programs and played an active role in the Covid mass vaccination clinic across the New River Valley.

Reflecting on their journey, Dan and Sue feel blessed by their supportive family, friends, and fulfilling careers. They express profound gratitude for their life experiences and the opportunity to make a difference in their community.