Madigan Hospital Swan Dies, Breaking Lifelong Couple

LAKEWOOD, WA - Madi the mute swan went to sleep Sunday night and never woke up. The 18-year-old died suddenly, leaving a hole in the Madigan Hospital community and her longtime partner, Lewi, all alone.

The couple had been living in the ponds near Madigan Hospital at Joint Base Lewis-McChord for almost two decades. Madi was sick with a respiratory illness last spring, according to the hospital, but she appeared to be in good health at the time of her death.

The original Madi and Lewi arrived at Madigan in 1993. Those swans are no longer around, but a new pair came later and were also named Madi and Lewi. They were named for Madigan Hospital and the "Lewis" in JBLM.

"Madi and Lewi have become iconic figures here at Madigan. They are Madigan’s mascots and ambassadors of good will. Their beauty, elegance, and stoic presence serve to provide comfort and therapy to those in need," the hospital said of the swans.

The hospital is planning a memorial for Madi, but details have not been released yet.

Image courtesy Madigan Hospital