Swaddle blanket donation honors legacy of fallen Auburn student

The Mother/Baby Unit at East Alabama Medical Center (EAMC) recently received 100 LovEvolve Swaddle blankets. The donation was made in honor of Whitney Harlow Robeson, an alumna of Auburn University who tragically died in March 2026.

“The swaddles provide comfort for our littlest patients while also connecting parents with resources and support during a time that can be overwhelming,” said Rosemary Cummings, executive director of Women and Children Services at EAMC. “We are grateful to see Whitney’s legacy honored in a way that will support families in Auburn and east Alabama.”

LovEvolve Swaddle blankets are made from organic cotton muslin and can be used as a swaddle, nursing cover or stroller blanket. Each blanket also includes access to postpartum and newborn-care resources through the LovEntourage app, giving new parents additional support during and after their hospital stay.

 

The donation reflects Robeson’s love for children and her family’s desire to honor her memory in a place that was meaningful to her.

“Auburn is a place that is special; I saw how Whitney flourished here,” said Robeson’s father, Matt. “I know if she could give back to this community, she would absolutely love to do so.”

While a student at Auburn University, Robeson worked at LovEvolve, where founder Sunny Goode became both a mentor and friend. Her family requested memorial gifts be directed to LovEvolve to support the Love Swaddle Mission to continue carrying Whitney’s love for others forward. The first shipment of swaddle blankets was sent to EAMC.

For Goode, the donation is a way to continue Robeson’s legacy of love and care for others.

“Whitney was a very dear employee, mentee and friend,” LovEvolve Founder and President Sunny Goode said. “Whitney completely understood the ripple effects of one simple act of kindness and support.  While at work, we had fun dreaming of what the world would be like if everyone were wrapped in love at birth. Her eyes would get big and she’d just smile. What we do with this tragedy for her family, friends and community is how we honor her and her beautiful spirit and soul. She was one very special young lady."

The donated swaddles will be gifted to newborns born at EAMC, providing families with a meaningful keepsake as they begin their journey together. Through this donation, Robeson’s legacy will continue to touch families across Auburn and east Alabama during some of their earliest moments with their children.

About East Alabama Health

East Alabama Health encompasses East Alabama Medical Center in Opelika, EAMC-Lanier Rural Emergency Hospital in Valley, East Alabama Medical Center North in Opelika, the Spencer Cancer Center in Opelika, the Auburn Medical Pavilion and a host of other key medical clinics and practices that help provide a continuum of care to patients throughout an 11-county area. EAMC is a 336-bed regional referral hospital. EAMC-Lanier Rural Emergency Hospital provides emergency and outpatient services while its campus also features a nursing home and an ambulatory surgery center. East Alabama Health employs about 4,100 people and is the second largest employer in the region, trailing only Auburn University.