Tucked among the hospitals, research labs and clinics of OU Health Sciences are unexpected places of calm: outdoor sanctuaries where patients, families, students and caregivers can catch their breath.

Shady courtyards and restorative gardens invite visitors to pause, reflect and recharge. Even monarch butterflies find respite here, thanks to a dedicated waystation established just for them.

These inspiring spaces didn’t happen by chance. Many were created through private gifts to honor those who’ve shaped the health and wellbeing of Oklahoma. Here, we share a sampling of these gestures of care within the healing campus.