Arnold Palmer's legacy will be remembered in Central Fla. for 'generations to come'

Arnold Palmer, 87, is being remembered across the country and around the world as a golf legend.

But in Central Florida, his legacy will live on for generations because of the two hospitals that bear his name.

Channel 9's Jeff Levkulich spoke with a doctor who Palmer worked with to build the practices that have helped thousands of families.

For years, babies were born at Orlando Regional Medical Center, until 1981 when Palmer visited the small and cramped neonatal unit, changing the history of pediatric medicine in Central Florida forever.

"He said, ‘We can do better and we will do better,” said Dr. Gregor Alexander.

Alexander said Palmer raised the money to fund Arnold Palmer Hospital For Children.

Fifteen years later, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies was built. It's the largest neonatal intensive care unit under one roof in the world.

"But at the same time, (we) deliver that excellence of care with a lot of heart and a lot of compassion," said Alexander.

Alexander said Palmer would visit patients and staff several times a year. While Palmer was well known for his years as a professional golfer, his commitment to philanthropy is what drove him.

"He realized the impact that he had on our babies and our children and our high-risk mothers was going to be as important as or more important than his legacy in golf," said Alexander.

Alexander told said he saw his friend 10 days ago in Latrobe, Pennsylvania. He said Palmer looked frail and knew time was short, but he still wasn't prepared to hear the news of his passing.

"We will remember him, and through our babies and through our families for generations to come," said Alexander.

During their last talk, Palmer expressed building a children’s hospital in his hometown of Latrobe.

Alexander said he will work to make Palmer’s dream a reality.

Cox Media Group