Susan Harling Robinson Park

Susan Harling Robinson Park. . , This beautiful setting is among the first images seen in STEEL MAGNOLIAS, the true story of Susan Harling Robinson who inspired both the movie and the play upon which it was based., The film, shot entirely on location in Natchitoches in the summer of 1988, celebrates the strength and indomitable spirit of Southern women. It chronicles the lives of Susan Harling, her mother Margaret Harling and the community of witty, strong and loving women that supported them through good times and bad. When Susan learned she was a diabetic at age twelve, one of the first things she said was that her illness was "not going to get in the way of anything." True to her word, she never let it slow her down. She was a candy striper at Natchitoches Parish Hospital. She sang in the First Presbyterian Church choir. She directed the Youth Choir. At Natchitoches Central High, Susan was very involved in extra- curricular activities. She played flute in the high school band. She was a majorette. And, like Shelby, the character based on her and portrayed by Julia Roberts in STEEL MAGNOLIAS - she twirled her batons to the music of Hawaii Five-0., Even as a very young child, Susan's career goal was to follow in her mother Margaret's footsteps and become a nurse. After graduating from Natchitoches High, she entered Northwestern State University and immersed herself in campus life. She was a proud member of the Kappa Iota chapter of Phi Mu. The warmth and support of that sisterhood remained important to her throughout her life. Upon her graduation from the NSU School of Nursing, Susan became a pediatric nurse and resided in Shreveport. She loved being around "all those babies" and dreamed of one day having a big noisy house full of kids., In Shreveport, Susan met and fell in love with a pediatrician, Patrick Robinson. They married in 1979. Susan had been cautioned about the complications of having children, given her severe diabetes. But she had never let her disease inhibit or alter her life in any way. She was determined to have the family she'd always dreamed of. In February of 1983, Susan and Patrick had a son, Robert. It was a difficult birth with her son arriving three months premature, but clearly baby Robert had inherited his Mama's strength and indomitable spirit. He pulled through., Unfortunately for Susan, the pregnancy had taken a toll on her kidneys. They failed. Determined to resume her career in the neo-natal field and continue to be the best mother possible, a kidney transplant was necessary. Showing a strength and love equal to Susan's determination for a normal life, Susan's mother Margaret donated one of her kidneys. These were tough days. But even in the darkest moments, Susan would take time to marvel at the kindness and compassion of the community that surrounded her. And then she would always make everyone laugh. Laughter was very important to her., Sadly, the transplant didn't work. Complications ensued. Susan passed away in October of 1985. Susan treasured the pride of heritage and the beauty one finds in her beloved Natchitoches. It would make, her very happy to know you are experiencing it now. The rich history of this town is filled with amazing women noted for their strength, courage and purpose. The dedication of this park to Susan Harling Robinson adds another name to that illustrious list. She would be so pleased if those visiting this tranquil spot would take a moment to think of those neighbors, friends, and family who love and support and inspire you., Robert Harling