Momentum Magazine Spring 2022

Momentum

Spring 2022

A P U B L I C AT I O N O F AT R I U M H E A LT H F O U N D AT I O N

Philanthropist Howard Levine GIFT TO MED SCHOOL BRIGHTENS PATH FOR FUTURE SCHOLARS

A Message from our Board Chair: Having grown up in the Charlotte area, I’ve had the privilege to see the unwavering commitment Atrium Health has to caring for people from all walks of life. So, it comes as no surprise to me that we are taking that to the next level, embracing a campaign that is dedicated to our mission of bringing health, HOPE, and healing – to all.

Last year set a tremendous tone for the future of the Giving Hope campaign, and this community played a crucial role in our success! Our team is grateful to all the individuals, family foundations, local and national corporations, and others who have helped us get to this point. And we are committed to riding the momentum, as we support the ongoing needs of our patients, families, and caregivers.

So many of us have experienced, firsthand – my own family included – the lifechanging care Atrium Health has to offer. I encourage you to join me on this path, as we strive to inspire transformational giving to provide the very best healthcare services in this community.

With gratitude,

Mandy Houser Board Chair, Atrium Health Foundation

Dear Friends, When I moved to Charlotte, I had heard from many people about what a generous community I was joining. That certainly has been demonstrated since launching, less than a year ago, Atrium Health Foundation’s largest philanthropic campaign in our history. The response to our Giving Hope campaign has been overwhelming. In 2021 we experienced a record year, with $100 million in commitments.

From the transformational gifts in support of exemplary facilities, new pathways to care, and future learning opportunities – to gifts that are helping advance research and education and improve access for the underserved – our donors are making a positive impact on the communities we serve. I hope you enjoy reading about some of these inspirational stories in this issue of Momentum.

Thank you for helping us shape the future of healthcare for your family, friends, and neighbors.

Armando Chardiet President, Atrium Health Foundation

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C O N T E N T S SPRING 2022

O N T H E COV E R

P H I L A N T H RO PY I N AC T I O N

2 Cover: Transformational Gift from Howard Levine Brightens Path for Future Medical Students

32 Duke Endowment

ON THE SCENE

28 Radiation Therapy

34 American Cancer Society 36 Charis Cancer Fellowship 38 Gambrell Foundation

29 Baby J Fund 29 TJ Olsen 30 Charlotte Ballet

39 Christopher & Dana

30 Daimler Trucks North America

Reeve Foundation 40 Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation

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37

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41 Milan's Miracle Fund

30 Madelyn's Fund 31 AT&T 31 Billy-O Golf Tournament

41 AbbVie

31 Stance Healthcare GA M E C H A N G E R S

6 Gross Family Foundation U PWA R D

8 WARDS Foundation 11 Todd and Barbara Kopczynski

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24 Panda Express

IHOP A DOSE OF HOPE

I N N OVATO R S

Speedway LLC

22 Sarah Guy

10 Sarah and Tim Belk

26 Mikey Howard

12 Jan and Ed Brown 14 Gayle and Carl Tallardy III

T E A M M AT E S P OT L I G H T S

16 Nicole Moore-Deal G I V I N G H O P E C A M PA I G N

18 Maureen Swick

20 Atrium Health Union

West Opens IN MEMORIAM

21 Luke Kissam

David L. Conlan Center (back cover)

37 Charles M. Shelton

Atrium Health Foundation Board of Directors:

GIFT PLANNING

42 Guide to Gift Planning

Mandy S. Houser, Chair; Howard Bissell, III; Todd Collins; Hugh S. (Beau) Cummins III; May Beverly Hemby; Greg Johnson; Beverly Ladley; Doug Lebda; Luther Lockwood, II; Sonja Nichols; Greg Olsen; Manuel Rey; Mike Rucker; Michael Salvino; David Secrest; David Sheffer

Momentum is a publication produced by Atrium Health Foundation. For more information, please call 704-355-4048. © Copyright 2022 by Atrium Health Foundation To opt out of future communications from Atrium Health Foundation, please email ahfoptout@atriumhealth.org, telephone 704-355-4048, or write to: Atrium Health Foundation @ 208 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203.

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HOWARD R. LEVINE FOUNDATION

Sets Pace

for New Medical School Campus 2

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Giving back has always been a “natural thing” for Howard Levine, whose generosity has proven instrumental to the growth of the city in which he was raised.

The long-time, local business leader and

philanthropist once again demonstrated his commitment to his community with a $25 million gift to name the signature academic building at the Wake Forest University School of Medicine Charlotte.

T

he building –The Howard R. Levine Center for Education – will be located in the heart of an innovation district coming to Midtown. It will

house the school of medicine as well as Wake Forest University School of Business, Wake Forest School for Professional Studies and Carolinas College of Health Sciences. Atrium Health will break ground on the 4-year medical school this year, with the first class scheduled to be seated in 2024.

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HOWARD R. LEVINE FOUNDATION Continued from pg. 2

“I approach this as an investment,” said Howard Levine, who previously served as chairman and chief executive officer of Matthews, North Carolina-based Family Dollar, a national retailer founded by his father, Leon Levine. “We look at the leadership and funding of the organization and, in turn, what they are doing with the services they’re providing.”

The gift towards the medical school continues a lasting legacy of support from the Levine family. Howard Levine and his family have been significant benefactors of Atrium Health Levine Children’s and Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, among other impactful projects within the health system and throughout the Carolinas.

“As a Charlotte native, I’ve been a part of this community for almost my whole life – it has shaped a big part of who I am. I consider it a privilege to be a part of bringing Wake Forest University School of Medicine Charlotte to our city and helping to advance higher education opportunities and world-class medical research,” Levine said.

“The Howard R. Levine Center for Education will literally change the trajectory of young people’s lives for decades to come,” said Eugene A. Woods, president and CEO of Atrium Health. “Specifically, it will enable us to equip future health clinicians with the curriculum, tools and facilities to create an educational experience that is constantly on the cutting edge of the latest science. As importantly, it will enable us to expand career pathways to underserved populations through targeted pipeline programs in coordination with the other educational institutions in this region.”

The donation from the Howard R. Levine Foundation marks the first major gift tied to the new school of medicine and its campus since Atrium Health Foundation launched its largest-ever philanthropic campaign in 2021.

For more information on the Giving Hope Campaign, visit GiveAtrium.org.

Establishing Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Charlotte marks a milestone for both health and education in the Southeast and will be a driving force for Charlotte’s new innovation district.

The Howard R. Levine Center for Education will help advance learning, economic growth, and opportunity.

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“

The Howard R. Levine Center for Education will literally change the trajectory of young people’s lives for decades to come. Specifically, it will enable us to equip future health clinicians with the curriculum, tools and facilities to create an

educational experience that is constantly on the cutting edge of the latest science.

As importantly, it will enable us to expand career pathways to underserved populations through targeted pipeline programs in coordination with the other educational institutions in this region.

— EUGENE A. WOODS PRESIDENT AND CEO, ATRIUM HEALTH

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At the Heart of

Care Transformation A

$2 million gift from the California-based William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Family Foundation will help further advance care at Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute. The donation – the second major gift from the Foundation – will support the Center for Cardiovascular Care Transformation

within Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute.

In recognition of the Gross Family’s ongoing support, the center will be named after the William, Jeff and Jennifer Gross Family Foundation. Housed in the new Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute at Kenilworth Medical Plaza, the Center serves as the catalyst for innovation in education, research, and clinical care pathways necessary to support foundational change in the delivery of cardiovascular care.

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Over the last two years, the Center has helped establish a virtual Hypertension Bootcamp, leveraging in-home monitoring and a multidisciplinary team to tackle one of healthcare’s greatest challenges. This foundational step paves the way for operating at scale with novel, patient-centered models of care for this and other cardiovascular diseases. In addition, funding from the Gross family gift has helped build an advanced analytics team and transformed anticoagulation treatment for patients with cardiovascular disease, reducing by 65 percent the number of office visits solely for anticoagulation management.

“We are thrilled with the Center’s progress over the last two years and to learn of the regional impact,” said Jeff Gross, whose mother-in-law, Georganna Moore, was treated at Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute. “We remain forever grateful to the Institute and Bill Downey, MD, vice chair of Quality and Care Transformation, for their expert and compassionate care.”

Benefactors Jeff and Jennifer Gross

With the collective $4 million in philanthropic support, the Center for Cardiovascular Care Transformation will continue to implement best practices into everyday clinical care and help close gaps in care within underserved communities.

“

Too often, innovations in healthcare leave behind those who can least afford it. In hypertension specifically, disparities are significant, with higher prevalence and lower rates of control among racial and ethnic minorities. With support from the Gross family, we will work to overcome cultural barriers to success and develop and implement novel approaches that will not only benefit patients here in our region, but also those in other health systems across the country.

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– BILL DOWNEY, MD, VICE CHAIR OF QUALITY AND CARE TRANSFORMATION

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Inspiring Hope A LITTLE BOY’S LEGACY. A BIG DOSE OF HOPE.

W

hen Caroline and Trey Winslett welcomed their first-born child, Ward, they fell hard. “He had such a personality, and he was so easy to love,” said Caroline. “You couldn’t help but love him when you looked into those deep blue eyes,” added Trey.

He was perfect in every sense, except for one small genetic defect. Ward was seven months old when he was diagnosed with Gaucher’s Disease (pronounced go-SHAY), an incurable rare disease that occurs in one in 100,000 individuals and has varying levels of severity. Ward had the rare type that begins in infancy and is usually fatal by age two.

“And so began our diagnostic odyssey,” said Caroline Winslett, who explained that she and Trey spent hours each day learning as much as possible about Ward’s disease, with support from Atrium Health Levine Children’s. “It was an incredibly traumatic experience, and we learned some vital lessons. First and foremost: Love is important to a child with a rare disease, and it provides a comfort to both the child and his or her loved ones. And second: When a rare disease strikes, it takes a village.”

The Winsletts lost their beloved Ward in October 2020, just six days shy of his 13-month

birthday. They turned their heartbreak into determination, driven by their wish to inspire hope in other families facing a similar diagnosis. In January 2021, they founded WARD’S Foundation (Working to Advance Rare

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Disease Support) with the mission of educating, supporting, and improving the overall patient experience for families facing rare disease.

On February 28, 2022 – National Rare Disease Day – WARD’S Foundation announced a $1 million gift to Atrium Health Foundation to help further advance the care of rare disease patients at Levine Children’s Hospital. In recognition of the gift, the Ward Winslett Center for Rare Disease will be established on the sixth floor of the Levine Children’s Medical Plaza. The outpatient center will serve over 40 counties, offering efficient, coordinated care and a support system for families who are navigating the complexities of living with a rare disease.

The Ward Winslett Center for Pediatric Rare Disease will provide patients with access to an array of services under one roof, ensuring that families like the Winsletts spend less time traveling and in appointments, and more quality time with their children. In addition to meeting the clinical needs of families, the Center will serve as the catalyst for innovation in quality improvement, research, and education to support foundational change in the delivery of care for patients with rare diseases.

“We feel like we have an obligation to do this for others,” said Trey Winslett. “We want to honor Ward’s legacy by building a network of treatment options and support around the Carolinas… so no family has to go through this alone.”

“

”

WARD REALLY IS OUR GUIDE. WE WANT HIS LIFE TO HAVE A LOT MORE MEANING THAN JUST HIS 13 MONTHS ON EARTH WITH US. – TREY WINSLETT

”

.

1 in 10 Americans has a rare disease Illustrations: Little Diversified Architectural Consulting

90% of rare diseases have no FDA-approved treatment

Children with rare diseases: - require clinic visits 7x more than their peers - account for

1/3

of all pediatric healthcare spending.

Projected to open in 2024 in the newly renovated Levine Children's Medical Plaza, the Ward Winslett Center for Pediatric Rare Disease will join other specialty centers such as the HEARTest Yard Congenital Heart Center, (which opened last year), the John and Donna Justice Pulmonary Diagnostic Center, Torrey Hemby Center (Oncology), and the Nephrology Center of Excellence, among 30 other specialty practices. Funding from the WARD's Foundation gift will enable the Center to build upon its core staff, emphasizing communication, quality, operational metrics, and clinical and family support.

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Recipe for Health

SARAH & TIM BELK COMUNITY KITCHEN ESTABLISHED AT SANGER HEART & VASCULAR INSTITUTE

A

$500,000 gift to Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute from Sarah and Tim Belk will help ensure that patients have access to a “whole-health” approach to heart care. In recognition of their generous commitment, the facility’s state-of-the-art demonstration kitchen will be named in the Belks’ honor. A key component to Sanger’s holistic approach to healing and wellness, the Sarah & Tim Belk Community Kitchen will provide hands-on nutrition and healthy cooking instruction to complement its cardiac rehabilitation program.

In addition to providing patients with the latest education on smart-for-your-heart eating, the new facility will extend its services to families and community partners through seminars and cooking classes. The kitchen will bring chefs from across the country in to showcase the heart healthy items their restaurants provide. Sanger will also bring in local produce, package healthy meals, and distribute them within the community to those in need – an approach that resonated with the Belk family.

Sarah and Tim, the retired chairman and CEO of Belk, Inc., are the founders of Wild Hope Farm – a family business that serves as a resource for educating a new generation of organic farmers. Their farm not only brings high-quality, organic food into local communities through sustainable farming, but it’s a gathering place, much like the kitchen named in their honor.

Benefactors Sarah and Tim Belk

A former member of the Atrium Health Board of Commissioners, Tim is a proponent of educating heart patients and families about health and wellness. He recently joined the Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute Board of Ambassadors, and he and Sarah took this commitment to heart with their recent gift. Thanks to their support, the kitchen will provide a bounty of education and healthy meals for generations to come.

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BARBARA AND TODD KOPCZYNSKI: DRIVEN TO UPLIFT WOMEN As Atrium Health continues to prioritize equity in healthcare delivery, leaders of Atrium Health Women’s Care aim to reach women in every corner of the community with affordable care and reproductive education.

Established by local benefactors Barbara Kopczynski and her husband Dr. Todd Kopczynski — known fondly by his patients as “Dr. K” — the Drive to Thrive program will soon begin serving neighborhoods across Charlotte where residents have limited access to reproductive, maternal, and prenatal care.

Inspired by a similar outreach program in New England, Barbara and Dr. Kopczynski saw an opportunity to bring

“DRIVE TO THRIVE IS THE PERFECT NAME FOR THIS PROGRAM,” SAID BARBARA. “THE DESIGN OF THE MEDICAL UNIT AND CONCEPT OF THIS PROGRAM ARE REFLECTIVE OF OUR DESIRE TO LIFT PEOPLE UP.”

medical care to Charlotte's most vulnerable populations through a women’s care mobile medical unit.

From the moment they approached Atrium Health, they knew their dream was in capable hands. With a common passion for women’s health and their connection as former colleagues during residency, Dr. Suzanna Fox and “Dr. K” (along with his wife, Barbara) made the perfect team to spearhead the

Above, center: Todd and Barabara, along with Dr. Fox, collaborated with Farber Specialty Vehicles to design a unique mobile care environment.

innovative program. As deputy chief physician executive and enterprise service line leader of Atrium Health Women’s Care, Dr. Fox has long aspired to deliver care to women with limited access and financial means.

“This impactful gift from Todd and Barbara will allow Atrium Health Women's Care to expand our reach and ability to care for all patients, closer to home,” commented Dr. Fox. “I’m exceedingly grateful for their generous gift to help realize this dream for our service line.”

Retiring this summer after practicing obstetrics and gynecology for more than 30 years, Dr. Kopczynski will volunteer on the Drive to Thrive mobile medical unit, which is anticipated to launch early this fall with a goal of expanding to other regions in the future.

“It has always been important to Barbara and me that we help young people reach their greatest potential,” shared Dr. Kopczynski.

*Rendering subject to change.

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THERE IS A SHIFT FROM TRADITIONAL CHEMOTHERAPY TO NOVEL TARGETED AGENTS AND IMMUNOTHERAPY PROVIDING BETTER OUTCOMES. – NILANJAN GHOSH, MD, PHD

”

3D illustration of a CAR T-cell attacking a cancer cell

DONORS PAVE THE WAY FOR

I

Novel Discoveries in Lymphoma nspired by an unwavering commitment to patients and bolstered by generous philanthropic gifts, physician leaders at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute are making life-changing discoveries in early detection and treatment of cancer. Notably, advances in CAR T-cell therapy give hope to patients

diagnosed with cancer, particularly lymphoma.

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“There is a shift from traditional chemotherapy to novel targeted agents and immunotherapy providing better outcomes,” says Nilanjan Ghosh, MD, PhD, and chief of LCI’s lymphoma division. “We are the first program in the area to offer immunotherapies such as Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR T-cell therapy) and bispecific antibodies for lymphoma.”

Levine Cancer Institute is home to the largest lymphoma division in the Southeast, featuring a team of five physicians dedicated exclusively to treating lymphoma and supported by an advanced care practitioner, pharmacist, nurse navigator, and numerous nurse practitioners and researchers.

Exhibiting the shift that has occurred in recent years, globally, from traditional chemotherapy to novel targeted agents and immunotherapy, LCI has developed the largest portfolio of clinical

CAR T-CELL THERAPY STUDY

trials for lymphoma in the region. This allows patients to have access to novel therapies in lymphoma treatment previously unavailable in

Cancer Institute will remain on the cutting edge of lymphoma and

Juno 017001 is a Phase I study testing the safety, pharmacokinetics and anti-tumor activity of JCAR017 in adults with relapsed and refractory B-cell nonHodgkin lymphoma. The study is open at Levine Cancer Institute and will continue to evaluate the patients’ long-term progression-free survival and overall survival after JCAR017 treatment. This novel form of immunotherapy has proven effective in patients who haven’t responded favorably to traditional chemotherapy. Levine Cancer Institute is one of few hospitals in the country participating in Juno 017001, bringing hope to patients in the Charlotte region.

In addition to the Juno clinical trial, patients with certain types of relapsed or refractory large B-cell lymphoma will soon have another option: Yescarta.

Levine Cancer Institute is one of just two centers in the Carolinas to offer this FDAapproved treatment commercially.

hematologic cancer research, as well as achieve its commitment to

Nilanjan Ghosh, MD, PhD

our community.

It is with philanthropic backing from generous individuals, foundations, and corporate donors, that these developments in cancer treatment are made possible. Most recently, a $1 million gift from benefactors Jan and Ed Brown III will help to transform the trajectory of cancer care at Levine Cancer Institute for years to come.

The Institute’s ability to participate on the national and international stage via successful Phase I, II and III clinical trials would not be possible without the financial investment of generous community donors.

This includes clinical studies that have led to FDA approval of new agents in Benefactors, Ed & Jan Brown

lymphoma treatment and a recent study demonstrating promising pathways to equitable health outcomes in white and

minority patients diagnosed with Large B-cell lymphoma.

In addition to advancing novel discoveries in cancer care, a cornerstone of Atrium Health's mission is to advance health equity and expand access to care for minorities, a priority shared by benefactors Jan and Ed Brown. As the chair of the Atrium Health Enterprise board, Ed has long been a champion for healthcare for all.

"With this transformative support from Jan and Ed Brown, Levine

equity in cancer care for all," shared Dr. Ghosh.

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Pioneering the Next Era in Personalized Medicine FAMILY FOUNDATION ENDOWS LEVINE CANCER INSTITUTE

A

new era in personalized therapies for cancer is being ushered in with support from generous community benefactors. A lead gift of $1 million from Gayle and Charles “Carl” Tallardy III has established the Gayle J. and Charles C. Tallardy III Foundation Distinguished Chair in Clinical Research Endowment at Levine Cancer Institute. David M. Foureau, PhD – associate professor of medicine and research group director of LCI’s Immune Monitoring Core Laboratory – is the first recipient of this chairmanship.

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“We look at this gift and the establishment of our endowment as the beginning of a long relationship with Levine Cancer Institute,” shares Carl, pictured with his wife Gayle (above).

The Gayle J. and Charles C. Tallardy III Foundation Distinguished Chair in Clinical Research Endowment will help advance medical research leading to earlier detection, novel therapies, improved outcomes, and curative treatments for cancer.

“Transformational gifts such as these help position us among the best health systems in the country,” said Derek Raghavan, MD, PhD, president of Levine Cancer Institute. “We are grateful to the Tallardy family for their generosity and for their commitment to advancing next generation medicine.”

A native of Davidson, North Carolina, Gayle’s lifelong interest in science and her family’s David M. Foureau, PhD

experiences with cancer make the establishment of the endowment especially meaningful. After relocating to the South from upstate New York for the first time in their 42-year marriage, Gayle and Carl established their family foundation in 2021 and

soon recognized the opportunity to meaningfully impact the trajectory of cancer research in their new home.

“Having received care at Levine Cancer Institute for Carl’s own experience with cancer, we are honored to stand behind LCI’s commitment to research, allowing clinicians to move beyond simply treating patients to developing lifesaving cures,” shared Gayle.

Since the recent passing of Gayle’s late father, Dr. Claude Hardison McConnell, who battled melanoma, the Tallardys were moved to support immunotherapy in particular – an area of research that shows great promise in treating melanoma and other

Immunotherapy, a form

aggressive forms of

of biological therapy that uses a person’s own immune system to fight cancer, allows researchers to create personalized therapies to better target the disease.

Discoveries made in immunotherapy clinical trials for melanoma help to advance the broader body of knowledge around how this form of therapy can impact different forms of cancer.

cancer. After touring the translational research laboratory at LCI, Gayle saw an opportunity to help LCI’s researchers change the face of melanoma treatment for generations to come. “The research presented by Dr. Amin and Dr. Foureau was nothing less than cutting-edge,”

Promising medical discoveries in immunotherapy are being made for several cancer types including:

commented Gayle.

“Over the past 15 years we have witnessed the

• Melanoma • Sarcoma • Breast cancer • Colorectal cancer • Multiple myeloma • Non-Hodgkin's lymphoma

immunotherapy revolution, marked by the continuous discovery of new ways to harness the immune system to fight cancer, such as weaponizing our own blood cells with gene therapy technology. This generous donation by Gayle and Carl Tallardy will have a very significant impact on the Levine Cancer Institute immuno-oncology research program,” commented Dr. Foureau.

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Nicole Moore-Deal

NicoleA

A RISING NURSING STAR s Atrium Health experiences continued growth throughout our region, it is critical that we also grow the future nursing leaders who will provide our patients with unparalleled care. Atrium Health Foundation has taken on the charge to support our nurses through the Atrium Health Nursing Fund.

Gifts to the fund help to advance the nursing profession at Atrium Health by providing enhanced medical technology, educational resources, and opportunities for professional development that will grow our nursing leadership, now and in the future.

Nursing leaders like Nicole Moore-Deal, a rising star at Atrium Health, provide the leadership and expertise behind the patient experience. Nicole currently holds the role of assistant vice president of Patient Care Services and the Clinical Resource Staffing Office, through which she provides direction in achieving outcomes consistent with Atrium Health’s mission to improve health, elevate hope, and advance healing – for all.

Pictured: Nicole Moore-Deal, assistant vice president – Patient Care Services, Clinical Resource Staffing Office.

When Nicole began her nursing career in 2004 as a student at the Cabarrus College of Health Sciences, little did she know the crucial role she would have in transforming nursing operations across Atrium Health in the years that followed. After graduating, Nicole began her career with a coveted position as a labor and delivery nurse, the first of many professional opportunities given to the rising nursing leader at Atrium Health.

In her years with Atrium Health, Nicole has cross-trained in numerous subspecialties including telenursing, a role that gave her the flexibility to grow her family. Eventually Nicole – a working mom of three – was recruited by managed services provider Dawson Healthcare to become a project leader for a contract with Atrium Health, through which Nicole helped to establish Atrium Health’s Resource Team.

Atrium Health leaders took notice; as the contract period ended, Patricia Mook, vice president of Nursing Operations, recruited Nicole for a newly created leadership role within Corporate Operations.

FULFILLING A GREAT NEED AND SERVING A GREATER PURPOSE One of the greatest challenges facing Atrium Health and hospitals across the country in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has been periods of critical staffing shortages. In her current role with Atrium Health, Nicole has proved she is well-prepared to face this challenge head-on. Working with Nursing

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Professional Development and labor management teams, Nicole has led her colleagues to cross-train teammates and consolidate nursing float pools, allowing Atrium Health to focus available nursing resources on areas of greatest need. As a result, Nicole is now working with teams across the Atrium Health enterprise to expand this promising model to hospital facilities outside of Charlotte.

Nicole also serves on the COVID-19 Vaccination Oversight Committee, helping to lead mass vaccination events facilitated by Atrium Health nurses and developing tactics to support nurses through team building. When not participating directly in COVID-19 relief efforts, Nicole represents Atrium Health nurses on the Health Literacy Task Force and leads planning committees for the Year of the Nurse and Healthcare Provider Week recognition programs.

These contributions alone demonstrate Nicole's talent for leadership, but what really makes this rising star stand out as a gifted clinician is her commitment to improving health – for all.

“

DURING THE HEIGHT OF THE PANDEMIC, WHEN TENSIONS WERE HIGH AND THE WORK CHALLENGING, NICOLE LED A CRITICAL FUNCTION AND GUIDED OTHERS THROUGH THOSE UNCERTAIN TIMES WITH CLARITY AND COMPASSION. SHE NOT ONLY FOUND A WAY TO ALWAYS BE PRESENT WHERE NEEDED BUT ALSO INSTILLED A CALMING SENSE OF ‘WE CAN DO THIS’ WHEN OTHERS FELT OVERWHELMED WITH THE DEMANDS OF STAFFING A LARGE HEALTH SYSTEM. – MAUREEN SWICK, ATRIUM HEALTH ENTERPRISE SVP OF NURSING AND PHARMACY

1

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1. and 3. Nicole continues to play a critical leadership role in Atrium Health's COVID-19 mass vaccination campaigns.

2. Pictured above with Eugene A. Woods, president and chief executive officer of Atrium Health, Nicole is proud to be a rising star within Atrium Health Nursing leadership.

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MAUREEN SWICK: “ATRIUM HEALTH NURSES HAVE SHOWN INCREDIBLE STRENGTH.” The Atrium Health Enterprise SVP of Nursing and Pharmacy shared her greatest hopes for the future of nursing at Atrium Health.

2021 was heralded the Year of the Nurse – a fitting testament to the incredible contributions of nursing professionals amidst numerous challenges facing health systems nationwide. What are some of your nursing team's accomplishments that you are most proud of this past year?

There are so many...our nurses went, and continue to go, above and beyond for our patients and community members. From staffing COVID-19 testing and vaccine sites, to caring for the most critically ill patients, Atrium Health nurses have shown incredible strength.

We have also used this opportunity to adapt and innovate. For the past several months, nurses at Atrium Health Pineville have piloted a new Virtual Nursing Observation program to have an extra set of eyes on some of their sickest patients. This innovative program could help shape the future of the nursing profession, address staffing shortages, and support applications for telemedicine. During the Year of the Nurse, the first Atrium Health nursing podcast — First Best Nurse — was launched.

One of your rising nursing stars, Nicole Moore-Deal, has shown great leadership among her peers. Of her many accomplishments as a team leader, what stands out to you as her most important contributions?

During the height of the pandemic, when tensions were high and the work challenging, Nicole led a critical function and guided others with clarity and compassion. She found a way to always be present where needed and instilled a calming sense of ‘we can do this’ when others felt overwhelmed.

Nicole became our workforce leader on the Vaccine Oversight Committee for COVID-19 vaccine administration. In this capacity, Nicole helped ensure the success of our drive thru clinics, mass vaccination events, and Community Benefit roving testing and vaccine sites for vulnerable and minority populations. Nicole has led the initiative to staff vaccination events which had provided more than 253,000 vaccinations in the Charlotte community as of midMarch 2021.

Nicole has accomplished all of this while leading the Atrium Health Resource Team, ensuring frontline resource teammates are deployed to the places where they are most needed.

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We have seen philanthropy play a vital role in advancing medical technology. How will technological innovations impact the nursing field at Atrium Health, and what developments in this area can our donors get behind?

I believe the Virtual Nursing Observation (VNO), a new and innovative program, could help shape the future of nursing. There are opportunities to support both the mobile and stationary cameras needed for every patient room, as well as monitors required to support workflows.

The tremendous contributions of our nurses on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic cannot be overstated. How do you stay positive and inspire our nurses to persevere, and what brings you hope?

Our teammates inspire me to stay positive! They give me hope with their unending care. Self-care is so important; I walk five miles every day, and I also believe in healthy eating. I segment my time so that I can reflect, and I encourage my leaders and staff to do the same.

The Giving Hope comprehensive philanthropic campaign aims to transform healthcare in all areas of the enterprise. How do you envision the future of Atrium Health Nursing with this transformational support from our community?

Donors’ support could mean more nursing-specific research that addresses and promotes health equity in our community. We are also working hard to create the “Room of the Future,” which would not be possible without the support from our donors. This new technology would include the Virtual Nurse Observation program, as well as automatic documentation that will help every nurse perform their job more efficiently and give patients more ease of access.

RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING NURSES AT ATRIUM HEALTH

BY MAKING THEM STARS! With the ongoing pandemic, there is no better time than now to support, uplift and celebrate our courageous, talented and compassionate nursing staff at Atrium Health.

To learn more and support the Atrium Health Nursing Stars Program visit:

AtriumHealthFoundation.org/Nurses A T R I U M H E A LT H F O U N D A T I O N

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Givin

HOPE

Update

Atrium Health Union West Opens Atrium Health Union West celebrated its grand opening, making it the health system’s first newly built hospital in the Charlotte area in more than 30 years. The state-of-the-art campus includes an acute care hospital, emergency department, and specialty care center all wrapped into one convenient location at the intersection of Highway 74 and Stallings Road.

“Union County is one of the fastest growing counties in the state of North Carolina, with nearly 250,000 people now calling Union County home,” shared Michael Lutes, senior vice president of Atrium Health and market president of Atrium Health’s South Market. “This rapid growth makes our state of the art 'Union West' hospital a wellsuited addition to the Atrium Health system – a system focused on patient health, hope, and healing.”

The hospital is home to 40 licensed acute care beds, 10 emergency department bays with helipad, 3 operating rooms, imaging, pharmacy, and lab services. Located next to the hospital is the 67,000square-foot specialty care center where patients now have access to outpatient care across the medical spectrum, including Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, Atrium Health Women’s Care, dermatology, endocrinology, gastroenterology and hepatology, pulmonology, sleep medicine, surgery, and urology.

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Building Upon its Strong Foundation The opening of Atrium Health Union West signifies hope for residents of Matthews, Mint Hill, Stallings, Indian Trail, Weddington, and nearby communities who will now have unprecedented access to world-class care.

Philanthropic Opportunities Atrium Women's Center Garden Terrace Event Lawn

North Wing Helipad Breezeway Rooftop Garden

For information on giving opportunities at Atrium Health Union West, visit GiveAtrium.org or contact: Holli Helms Holli.Helms@atriumhealth.org 704-446-9083

Luke Kissam A native South Carolinian, Luke Kissam is a Citadel alum and graduate of the University of South Carolina Law School. He returned to the Carolinas with his wife, Kathryn, and their three boys when his employer – Albemarle Corporation – relocated to Charlotte. He retired as chairman and CEO of the company in 2019 due to health reasons, and today is currently a partner with Bernhard Capital Partners.

Empty nesters, Kathryn and Luke remain active in the community and are passionate about family, education, and healthcare. Through their recent gift to cancer research at Atrium Health, they continue to provide hope for patients, families, and teammates at Levine Cancer Institute.

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G I V I N G H O P E C A M P A I G N U P D AT E • G I V I N G H O P E C A M P A I G N U P D AT E • G I V I N G H O P E C A M P A I G N U P D AT E

Introducing

Sarah’s Heart OF A CHAMPION

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early a decade has passed since Gastonians Angie and Jerry Guy, and their children, welcomed their adoptive daughter Sarah into their lives. Little did they know how Sarah, who was brought

home from China when she was two years old, would transform their lives and become a champion for children.

Born with double outlet right ventricle (DORV), a serious congenital heart defect, Sarah faced enormous odds of eventual heart failure, which would require a heart transplant at some point in her life. For Sarah, this fact became reality earlier than her family expected. Fortunately, the Guy family was in the right place for Sarah’s care from her very first day in her new home.

From pacemakers to transplants, kids with heart conditions find everything they need at Levine Children’s Hospital, including the region’s only dedicated congenital heart clinic – The HEARTest Yard Congenital Heart Center. In fact, U.S. News & World Report recognizes it as one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals for pediatric heart care and surgery.

By age three, Sarah had two open-heart surgeries, multiple catheterizations, and stent procedures at Levine Children’s. Each time, she bounced back with her characteristic smile and passion for life.

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From what her family could tell, her heart was doing its job and doing it well. On the outside Sarah seemed tireless, competing in gymnastics and keeping up with her older sister, Allie.

But on the inside, her heart was quietly failing.

“Kids will compensate until they can’t compensate anymore,” says Dr. Gonzalo Wallis, Sarah's pediatric cardiologist. “They’ll keep doing what they’re doing, until they’re so sick, they can’t do anything.”

Early in 2021, after collapsing at SouthPark Mall while shopping with her family, Sarah learned that her heart transplant could not wait.

Thankfully, due to the extraordinary efforts of Levine Children’s and LifeShare Carolinas, and the selfless act of organ donation from an anonymous donor’s family, a healthy heart was procured in time to save her life. Sarah received her new heart on February 12, two days after she turned 11 – just in time for Valentine’s Day. This February marked two milestones for Sarah – her successful transplant and her nomination as the local Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Champion for Levine Children’s – a fitting title for such a courageous young girl. Sarah’s unwavering optimism has been a testament to her courageous spirit, which has defined her long history with the hospital’s heart program.

As the local CMN Champion – and with the support of numerous CMN corporate partners throughout the Greater Charlotte region – Sarah will help to bring hope and healing to even the most fragile patients treated at Levine Children’s. Both before and after her transplant, one thing remains the same: Sarah possesses the courage and heart of a champion for children.

May 22

JOIN US FOR THE 11TH ANNUAL

Levine JCC Kids’ Triathlon!

The Sandra and Leon Levine Jewish Community Center will host its 11th Annual Levine JCC Kids’ Triathlon to benefit rehabilitation programs at Levine Children’s Hospital and the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program.

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LJCCKidsTri.org

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Panda Express Celebrates Record-Breaking Year In 2021, Panda Express donated over $23,000 to Levine Children’s Hospital – a record-breaking fundraising year for our local Children’s Miracle Network partner made possible by the generosity of employees and customers. This year will mark another milestone for the restaurant company as it celebrates 15 years of partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Since then, Panda Express has raised over $100 million for local children’s hospitals across the United States and Canada through in-store donation boxes, an associate giving campaign, and annual golf invitationals.

UPWARD

IHOP Customers Batter Up for Children’s Health Known for being ‘everything you love about breakfast’ IHOP restaurants nationwide have celebrated a 16-year history of battering up for sick and injured children treated at Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, including Atrium Health Levine Children’s. During National Pancake Day – the breakfast chain’s signature annual fundraiser held each March – IHOP restaurants across the country served up millions of free pancakes, equating to millions of miracles at CMN hospitals, which rely on donations to provide exceptional patient care to sick and injured children. Locally, 15 IHOP restaurants participated in National Pancake Day and Miracle Balloon campaigns benefiting Levine Children's Hospital.

Speedway: Fueling Miracles for Kids Since 1991, Speedway LLC has been fueling miracles for sick and injured children nationwide as a partner of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. In the greater Charlotte area, local Speedway partners have embraced Atrium Health Levine Children’s patients and their families, raising more than $647,735 over the lifetime of their partnership with the CMN member hospital. In addition to a Speedway’s national “Miracle Tournament” held each year in Ohio, local Speedway stores participated in Round Up and Coin Canister Collection campaigns in 2021, raising a record $131,000 to benefit Levine Children’s. To learn more, visit Speedway.childrensmiraclenetworkhospitals.org.

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Upcoming Ways to Make Miracles with Local Children’s Miracle Network Partners Month of April: Ace Hardware Round Up Campaign

SAVE THE DATE

April 9: UNC Charlotte hosts its “Ninerthon” Dance Marathon

April 30: Life Time hosts “Ride of a Life Time” at Life Time cycle studios nationwide

Month of May: Costco Miracle Balloon Campaign

June – July 31: Topgolf will offer special group packages benefiting CMN Hospitals.

June 1 – June 12: Publix Coupon Sale Campaign

June 1-July 28 Dairy Queen Miracle Balloon Campaign

June 13-14 Speedway Miracle Golf Tournament

June 13 – July 10: Walmart & Sam’s Club Customer Donation Campaign

For more details visit AtriumHealthFoundation.org/CMN.

< During the Speedway Miracle Golf Tournament, local Children’s Miracle Network Champion, Nolan Perez, was invited on stage to present his artwork at the event auction.

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Hope for

MIKEY A KIDNEY “KRUSADER”

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patient of Levine Children’s since birth, Mikey Howard has grown up with his nephrology care team as a second family. Diagnosed in-utero with a

complex and rare kidney anomaly, Mikey’s chance for longterm survival was slim. His parents, Jennifer and Mike Howard, turned to Levine Children’s for his kidney care, where he’s received excellent care ever since. Today – more than 19 years, hundreds of nights spent at Levine Children’s, and two successful kidney transplants later – Mikey is thriving.

A hallmark of Levine Children’s Medical Plaza is the outpatient center’s collaborative approach to care for patients with complex and chronic medical conditions.

Early in Mikey’s treatment, Dr. Susan Massengill, director of the Levine Children’s Pediatric Nephrology Center of Excellence, and numerous subspecialists devised a plan to treat and mitigate the impact of Mikey's disease throughout his lifetime.

“The Howards have shown unwavering confidence and support for the Pediatric Nephrology Division since we first met Mikey as a one-day-old infant,” shared Dr. Massengill. “Mikey embodies what it is to be a ‘KIDney Krusader’ – patient, strong, determined, a fighter, courageous, adaptable and forever hopeful.”

In recognition of the lifesaving care Mikey has received at Levine Children’s, the Howard family recently donated $250,000 to benefit the Pediatric Nephrology Center of Excellence. Mikey and his mom recently shared more about their family’s journey at Levine Children’s and the meaning behind their gift: Atrium Health Foundation (AHF): Jennifer, you and Mike have known Dr. Massengill since Mikey was an infant. How has that relationship impacted your family?

Jennifer: Establishing trust and keeping an open dialogue with your physician is paramount when raising a child with a chronic illness. Dr. Massengill has a unique approach that’s smart, holistic, collaborative and caring. It’s not uncommon for Dr. Massengill to spend extra time with Mikey in the clinic to ask about his grades or to ensure he knows his medications and doses. She really understands the challenges of living with chronic kidney disease. She treats the patients – not just the disease.

AHF: What major milestones has Mikey reached while at Levine Children’s?

Jennifer: We’ve experienced so many over the years, but it was a dream come true to transition from what used to be Carolinas Medical Center’s over-crowded pediatric floor to a

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full-fledged, state-of-the-art children’s hospital. Mikey was just five years old when Levine Children’s Hospital opened its doors in 2007, and he had just undergone his first kidney transplant [from his father]. Later, Mikey would receive a second kidney transplant from his uncle in 2015. To this day, our family celebrates May 7 and February 4 – the dates Mikey received his kidney transplants and was given back his life.

AHF: What are your hopes for Mikey as it relates to Atrium Health’s ongoing support of his health?

Jennifer: Our hope is that Mikey continues to get the exceptional care he’s always received at Levine Children’s, even as he transitions to physicians who specialize in treating adults with kidney disease.

Whenever we’ve needed collaboration between physicians across Atrium Health, it’s always been seamless.

AHF: Mikey, please tell us a little about yourself.

Mikey: I’m 19, and I’m a senior at Marvin Ridge High School. I Iike to sing in chorus, take guitar lessons, enjoy video games, and I currently work at AutoBell car wash. I really like sports, and my parents take me to all the Carolina Panthers home games. I’ve gone to some Hornets games too, and I’m going to sit courtside at the Hornets vs Lakers game with my uncle who gave me his kidney. I also enjoy working out at Lifetime Fitness in Waverly.

AHF: Can you describe what it is like to be a patient at Levine Children’s?

Mikey: Even when I’ve been too sick to do much more than stay in my hospital bed, the Child Life team always makes me feel better by bringing me video games, and sometimes I go to the teen lounge and use the virtual reality headset, which is pretty cool. It’s especially good that there’s a Chick-Fil-A in the hospital. They also keep Goldfish, my favorite snack, in the family rooms.

AHF: Growing up with a chronic kidney disease, did you experience things differently?

Mikey: I have missed a lot of school over the years due to the many days I spent in the hospital, but I’ve had some unique experiences as a result.

I think it’s cool when athletes and celebrities visit kids in the hospital. Everyone knows I’m a big Panthers fan, so I’ve been (L-R) Dr. Megan Yankik, Dr. Susan Massengill, Mikey Howard, Jennifer Howard, Mike Howard, and Dr. Jack Weaver

able to meet lots of the players over the years. Levine Children’s made that happen for me and many other patients. Greg Olsen invited me to spring training camp when I was about 10, where he took me around and introduced me to all the players, including Cam Newton and Steve Smith.

AHF: Jennifer and Mike, why did you decide to make this generous gift to Levine Children’s?

Jennifer: We’ve been serving on a committee that Dr. Massengill formed six years ago for Levine Children’s Hospital’s Pediatric Nephrology Center of Excellence, so we have a solid understanding of her vision to advance research, perform clinical trials, identify best practices, improve outcomes for young patients, and share findings within the medical community. It has always been a hope, dream, and prayer of ours to do something meaningful that we know will make an impact on the lives of others who are fighting Mikey’s fight. We’ve always had the utmost trust and confidence in Dr. Massengill, and we want to help her pursue her passion and ultimately improve the way chronic kidney disease is treated.

She’s extremely driven, and we know she’ll put our gift to good use.

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ADVANCING THE ART OF

Radiation Therapy I

n March, Atrium Health broke ground on a state-of-the-art facility that will bring two innovative radiation therapies to children and adult patients with complex tumors. The facility will be a $69 million investment into the local community, as it becomes the first site to offer these treatment options in the Charlotte area. It will be constructed on Atrium Health’s Midtown campus and around the corner from the soon-to-be-built Wake Forest University School of Medicine Charlotte and “The Pearl” innovation district.

The two treatments are proton beam therapy, a form of highly precise radiation therapy, and gamma knife radiosurgery, a non-invasive treatment for brain lesions.

In this building, specialists will collaborate from across Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health Levine Children’s, Atrium Health Neurosciences Institute and more to bring the power and precision of the most sophisticated forms of radiation treatment to patients. With the addition of these new technologies, coupled with the expertise of the medical teams, Atrium Health will continue to be a global destination health care site.

“Levine Cancer Institute is building upon the momentum we’ve already set in motion to become one of the nation’s leading cancer centers, continuously connecting patients with cutting-edge treatments, research and all the supportive care needed alongside a cancer diagnosis,” said Dr. Derek Raghavan, president of Levine Cancer Institute. “We are incredibly grateful for the continuous support of our local community, including The Leon Levine Foundation, for their generosity and confidence in us that allows us to live out our united vision of creating the best healthcare experience for our patients.”

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On the Scene

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1. Close friends of Beverly and Mark Ladley helped show their support for the Baby J Ladley Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Fund by purchasing their annual holiday ornament. Thanks to all the donors who purchased ornaments or made a direct donation, the 2021 Baby J ornament sale raised over $50,000 for pediatric cancer research at Levine Children’s Hospital. 2. The 2021 Baby J ornament was designed by Love Thy Rival.

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3. Just months after undergoing a heart transplant at Levine Children’s Hospital, TJ Olsen took to the field as the Carolina Panthers’ honorary Keep Pounding drummer. His doctor, Dr. Gonzalo Wallis, medical director of the Pediatric Heart Failure and Transplant Program and vice chief of Pediatric Cardiology at Atrium Health Levine Children's Hospital, had the honor of joining him for this special moment and witnessing how far he has come.

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4

On the Scene

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6. Employees from Daimler Trucks North America’s Cleveland facility joined together as “Team Pink,” raising $4,100 for the Carolinas Ovarian Cancer Fund. Their generous gift will fund research, early detection efforts, and treatment advancements at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute.

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4. Jane Lockwood hit the dance floor on March 5 to raise funds for the McColl Lockwood Laboratory for Muscular Dystrophy Research at Atrium Health.

She was one of seven Charlotte community and corporate leaders to take the Knight Theater stage for the Charlotte Ballet’s annual Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte Gala. The Lockwood family has remained deeply committed to finding a cure for limb-girdle muscular dystrophy type 2I (LGMD2I), since their daughter Jane was diagnosed with the disease 20 years ago.

5. Atrium Health's very own Natasha Adams-Denny, MD, also hit the dance floor to benefit Atrium Health Women's Care. Driven by her desire to empower all women and support her patients, Dr. Adams-Denny represented Atrium Health with style and grace.

(L-R) Dr. Roger Denny, Celeste Denny, and Dr. Natasha Adams-Denny.

And finally, dancing on behalf of the Beat Childhood Research Consortium, headquartered at Levine Children's, was Jimbo Thorp, Managing Director for Jones Lang LaSalle Brokerage, Inc. (JLL).

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7. Over the holidays, Madelyn's Fund worked with hospital staff to set up a candy bar at Levine Children's Hospital to bring extra cheer to our patients. Since 2016, Madelyn's Fund has provided over $500,000 in financial assistance to support NICU and CVICU families at Levine Children's. To learn more visit Madelynsfund.org.

8. Representatives from AT&T presented a $30,000 donation to Atrium Health Foundation, benefiting Atrium Health's Centering Pregnancy and Parenting programs.

The programs represent emerging models of care designed to address disparities in maternal and infant health.

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On the Scene

9. For the fourth consecutive year, Darlene Orman (center) presented a donation to Atrium Health’s Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALSMDA Center with funds raised from the Billy-O Golf Tournament.

Honoring the memory of Darlene’s husband, Bill Orman, the tournament has raised nearly $50,000 for the Carolinas ALS Research Fund since its founding in 2018, supporting research and treatment advancements led by Dr. Leo McCluskey and his team.

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10. Atrium Health Behavioral Health Charlotte will soon have new furniture delivered thanks to a generous in-kind donation from Stance Healthcare. In addition to donating $44,000 worth of award-winning furniture to Atrium Health, the manufacturer contributed $2,500 to the Carolinas Behavioral Health Advancement Fund at Atrium Health Foundation.

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LEVINE CHILDREN’S LEADS NEW APPROACHES TO MENTAL HEALTH INTERVENTIONS AND CARE With support from The Duke Endowment, Atrium Health Levine Children’s is paving the way for new methods of psychological care and intervention among patients receiving treatment for acute or chronic medical conditions. Thanks to a recent $557,000 grant from The Duke Endowment, Atrium Health Levine Children’s has just launched a pilot program integrating evidence-based psychological assessment into clinical visits for medically fragile patients.

While Levine Children's employs specially trained pediatric psychologists to treat patients impacted by a small subset of medical conditions, such as neuro-oncology, funding from The Duke Endowment will allow clinicians to test a much broader integration across all pediatric specialty clinics. Ultimately, this will allow Levine Children’s to better identify and address patients’ mental health needs quickly and avoid reactive, crisis-mode interventions down the line. A crucial aspect of the virtual intervention program is to reach a wider population than patients previously assessed in healthcare facilities alone.

Complementing this study is an additional program at Levine Children's that recently received $750,000 from The Duke Endowment. This program seeks to proactively identify children and adolescents who need behavioral health services, connect them to care, and help maintain the continuum of care through partnerships with school-based programs and psychiatric medical providers. These efforts to improve coordination of care come at a critical time, as children and teens face multiple challenges associated with the ongoing pandemic.

The new program is one of Atrium Health Behavioral Health's numerous community-supported efforts to utilize virtual care and referral services to improve assessment and treatment of mental health needs. Programs such as Virtual Patient Navigation, Zero Suicide Pathway, Behavioral Health Integration, and Virtual Psychiatric Transition Care, continue to benefit from benefactors such as The Duke Endowment.

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GRANT BOLSTERS SOCIAL IMPACT IN YORK COUNTY Healthy People, Healthy Carolinas, an initiative and grant program launched by The Duke Endowment in 2015, was developed to address the needs of 20 communities in North and South Carolina, including residents of York County. The initiative supports the work of community coalitions that bring together leaders from multiple sectors – including healthcare systems, local nonprofits, educational institutions, and others – to address social determinants of health. In recent years, Atrium Health has partnered with Impact York County and recently received a second round of funding from The Duke Endowment’s Healthy People, Healthy Carolinas grant program. With the most recent $450,000 grant, Atrium Health, in partnership with Impact York County, continues to improve health equity and community wellness in vulnerable and underserved communities.

Aligning with Atrium Health’s community social impact strategy, Impact York County will leverage the support of The Duke Endowment to implement new evidence-based health literacy programs related to chronic disease prevention; partner with community organizations to improve access to healthy foods; reach underserved minority communities through mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinics; and lead policy discussions linking health and food systems.

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AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AND LEVINE CANCER INSTITUTE: PARTNERS FOR A CANCER-FREE FUTURE

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acked by more than $1.2 million in grant funding from the American Cancer Society (ACS), Levine Cancer Institute is helping to lead the fight for a world without cancer, starting within the Greater Charlotte region. A benefactor of ACS grant programs since 1997, Atrium Health remains at the

forefront of clinical discoveries and improvements in health equity in cancer care. Due to the success of the two organizations' collaborations to improve cancer detection, treatment, and access to care, Atrium Health was named the American Cancer Society’s “Health System of the Year” for 2021.

Several grants recently awarded by ACS to Levine Cancer Institute will help to advance new research studies and ensure even greater access to affordable, best-in-class cancer care. Research currently being led by Steven Park, MD, at Levine Cancer Institute, could be a game-changer in treating chemotherapy-resistant Double-Hit Lymphoma, an aggressive form of non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Based in LCI’s Hematologic

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Oncology Translational Research Laboratory, Dr. Park’s study was awarded a $240,000 Mission Boost Grant from ACS. By identifying the most effective drugs to target two cellular signaling pathways recently discovered by Dr. Parks and his co-investigators, the study could lead to lifesaving, chemotherapy-sparing treatments for patients with this serious form of cancer.

“This project is a great example of moving important scientific discovery from bench to bedside to improve patient care,” commented Dr. Park.

Steven I. Park, MD, division chief, Hematology and Oncology – Levine Cancer Institute

Sharing ACS's commitment to reducing health disparities, Levine Cancer Institute has also been awarded several grants to address affordability of cancer care. Two $50,000 grants will allow LCI to provide direct financial assistance for patients and caregivers who live outside the Charlotte area and require lodging while they are undergoing treatment for stem cell

transplant at LCI's flagship hospital. The lifesaving procedure requires patients to remain near Levine Cancer Institute for up to three months post-transplant, which can be cost-prohibitive for patients and caregivers during a vulnerable time of life.

An additional $15,000 grant from ACS will cover the cost of patients' gas and ridesharing apps to ensure they have timely access to treatments. “Having the opportunity to provide reliable, safe, and comfortable transportation to access treatment and pain management is one meaningful way we can help lessen that mental load – it’s one less thing our patients need to worry about,” says Laura Newton, a licensed clinical social worker with Levine Cancer Institute’s Department of Supportive Oncology.

Finally, with support from a $20,000 grant from ACS and the National Football League, several of Atrium Health's family medicine and primary care clinics in Midtown and South Charlotte will provide under-insured and uninsured safety-net patients with affordable and timely access to colon cancer screenings. The program aims to improve health literacy, health system navigation, and early detection of colon cancer, at little or no cost to qualifying patients. The support of ACS and the NFL for this essential outreach program comes at a critical time, as the pandemic continues to present patients with real and perceived barriers to cancer screenings and

(L-R) Annalise Sansouci, Cancer Resource Center project manager – Levine Cancer Institute; Patrick Meadors, PhD, director, Section of Psycho-Oncology, Department of Supportive Oncology – Levine Cancer Institute; Carrie Klamut, former senior manager – American Cancer Society; Megan Nelson, director of Corporate Relations – American Cancer Society.

follow-up care.

“The collaborative partnership with the American Cancer Society and Levine Cancer Institute has allowed LCI to continue necessary screening, outreach, and research programs that ensure we are providing the best health outcomes for all patients, including those most vulnerable,” said Patrick Meadors, PhD, director of Psycho-Oncology at LCI’s Department of Supportive Oncology.

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“Having personally experienced a loss in our family due to cancer, the chance to invest in the training of young surgeons has had a redemptive effect for our family,” shared founding benefactors of the Charis Cancer Fellowship. “Since its establishment more than 10 years ago, the fellowship has provided a top-rated, postresidency experience – one that will continue to foster the development of outstanding oncology surgeons for decades to come, with additional support from donors.”

CHARIS CANCER FELLOWSHIP: PAVING THE WAY FOR THE FUTURE OF BREAST ONCOLOGY For more than a decade, Levine Cancer Institute has maintained a commitment to providing the highest quality of care to patients with breast cancer and breast disease, which includes training the next generation of oncologists in novel surgical procedures and innovative treatments. As one of 11 Atrium Health fellowship programs accredited by the ACGME – a private, not-for-profit organization that sets standards for US graduate medical education – the Charis Cancer Fellowship provides exceptionally talented surgical residents with comprehensive experience in all aspects of breast cancer care.

The Charis Cancer Fellowship was established in 2010 by two local benefactors, whose collective gifts to the program have been made anonymously out of their commitment to helping others. Inspired by their strong belief in the healing power of God, the donors were intentional in naming the fellowship Charis – a word from the Greek New Testament that Dr. Christy Pestana, Charis cancer fellow from 2021-present.

means “grace” in modern terms.

The one-year intensive fellowship, awarded annually, offers hands-on patient care and practical experience, as well as exposure to experts through weekly tumor boards, lectures,

simulation labs, and regular case reviews with physician leaders.

The comprehensive program aims to develop knowledgeable, confident surgeons and leaders in the field of surgical and breast oncology. With future philanthropic support, the Charis Cancer Fellowship will continue to advance Levine Cancer Institute’s efforts to shape health outcomes and advance this specialized field of medicine for the next generations.

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IN MEMORIAM

CHARLES MADISON SHELTON, SR. May 12, 1935 – January 22, 2022 Atrium Health Foundation celebrates the life and legacy of Charles M. Shelton, a beloved family man, life-long entrepreneur, and selfless philanthropist.

A native of Mount Airy, North Carolina, Charlie dedicated years of hard work and commitment to the state and his local community. He is best known for establishing Shelton Vineyards in Dobson, N.C., one of many successful business ventures with his brother and business partner, Ed Shelton.

Together, they helped put North Carolina back on the map as one of the top wine-producing states in the nation.

Over the course of his life, Charlie and his wife, Sandy, created a powerful legacy of love and achievement, one they have passed down to their two children Mandy Shelton Houser (Mrs. Todd Houser) of Charlotte and Charles M. Shelton, Jr. (Chip) of Charlotte. As distinguished members of the Tree of Life Society at Atrium Health Foundation, Charlie and Sandy have made a significant impact on patients and families through their support of innovative cancer research and treatment at Levine Cancer Institute. Their daughter, Mandy Houser, leads as chair of the Atrium Health Foundation Board and proudly carries on the family tradition of spreading kindness and giving back. Philanthropy from the Houser family also spans across decades with transformational support to Levine Cancer Institute, Levine Children’s, and Perspective Health & Wellness.

Grounded in his faith, Charlie lived intentionally and with purpose. He enjoyed exploring the world through travels with family and friends, but also loved the simplicity of baking biscuits for his grandchildren, who fondly called him Big Daddy.

For his good works, Charlie was awarded one of the state’s highest honors, the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, and inducted into the North Carolina Business Hall of Fame and Queens University of Charlotte’s Carolinas Entrepreneurial Hall of Fame.

Charlie’s legacy is profound, and his compassion and spirit will endure through future developments in Alzheimer’s care, positively impacting people throughout the Carolinas.

To make a gift in loving memory of Mr. Shelton, visit www.atriumhealthfoundation.org/shelton/ The Charles M. Shelton Advancement Fund honors Charlie Shelton’s lifetime commitment to excellence and leadership within our region, which spanned multiple industries including construction, real estate, viticulture, and healthcare. Gifts to this fund will advance excellence in Alzheimer’s care, research and education across the Carolinas.

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TAKING THE ADAPTIVE SPORTS & ADVENTURES The Gambrell Foundation Sustains Programming with 3-Year Grant For over two decades, the Adaptive Sports & Adventures Program (ASAP) has served as a vital community program within Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation, addressing the functional and therapeutic needs of patients through adaptive sports, recreation, and outdoor activities. Offering a wide variety of activities for all ages – such as curling, kayaking, cycling, pickleball, tennis, rugby, water and snow skiing, archery, fitness training, swimming, and hunting – the program helps individuals achieve an active and productive lifestyle without barriers or limits.

A $187,000 grant from The Gambrell Foundation will help sustain and bolster the program over the next three years, supporting the purchase of new adaptive equipment for athletes and providing salary support. In addition, qualifying ASAP athletes will have the opportunity to compete at the Adaptive Water Ski National Championship in 2022, followed by the World Championship in 2023.

Adaptive equipment is often very expensive and not covered by medical insurance, preventing many individuals from participating in adaptive sports. With funding from The Gambrell Foundation, Carolinas Rehabilitation patients can enjoy the physical, mental, and social health benefits of ASAP.

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PROGRAM TO NEW HEIGHTS Atrium Health Foundation Receives Quality of Life Grant from Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation Atrium Health Foundation has been awarded a $22,000 Quality of Life grant from the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation to purchase new equipment for the Adaptive Sports & Adventure Program (ASAP). Soon, athletes will be using two new tennis chairs, one rugby chair, one handcycle, four active hands, and one quick release system for the adaptive water ski program. The new equipment will allow more individuals impacted by paralysis to engage in adaptive sports across the greater Charlotte region.

“These projects represent the true essence of our Quality of Life grants program by fostering inclusion, involvement and community engagement, and promoting health and wellness for those affected by paralysis,” said Mark Bogosian, director, Quality of Life Grants Program, Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.

“

The Adaptive Sports & Adventures Program provides an opportunity for our community to live life to its fullest after a life altering condition, trauma, or disease. We are extremely grateful to have received these grants in support of the program. Such philanthropic support allows us to continue serving our community and fulfilling our mission.

”

– JENNIFER MOORE, LRT/CTRS COORDINATOR, ADAPTIVE SPORTS & ADVENTURES PROGRAM (ASAP) ATRIUM HEALTH CAROLINAS REHABILITATION

Leave your forever mark today Designed with patients and families in mind, the Healing Garden at Atrium Health Pineville will provide a tranquil space for all and advance holistic healing by taking a whole-body approach to healthcare. Be one of the first to purchase a brick or have your name recognized on the Butterfly Gateway sculpture plaque. Funding opportunities range from $250 to $3,000.

To learn more, visit PinevilleHealingGarden.org or scan the QR code.

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RACING FOR HOPE: THE JEFF GORDON CHILDREN'S FOUNDATION FUNDS PEDIATRIC CANCER RESEARCH For over 20 years, the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation has provided hope to families impacted by childhood cancer by funding leading research and treatment advancements across the country and close to home at Atrium Health Levine Children’s. The Foundation’s recent grant of $50,000 will chiefly support a new leukemia research study at Levine Children's. Researchers will measure the side effect profile and long-term outcomes of incorporating physical therapy and exercise into patients’ treatment regimens.

Through the Foundation’s continued generosity, Levine Children’s Cancer & Blood Disorders will continue to spark novel ideas, innovations, and research.

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MILAN’S MEMORY CONTINUES TO INSPIRE MIRACLES Atrium Health Foundation recently received a $68,000 donation from Milan's Miracle Fund to support diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma (DIPG) research being conducted by Dr. Giselle Sholler, director of the Isabella Santos Foundation Solid and Rare Tumor Program at Atrium Health Levine Children's.

DIPG is an aggressive tumor in the brainstem that is diagnosed mostly in children. It is a devastating diagnosis, with less than a 3-percent survival rate two years after diagnosis with current treatments, but new research is providing hope. At Levine Children’s and the University of Florida, an innovative combination of molecular-guided therapy and personalized immunotherapy is being tested – marking the first steps in a novel approach to fight the disease.

Now, more than a decade after losing her daughter, Milan, Sharyn Capobianco remains determined to advance treatment in hopes of

Sharyn Capobianco presented the check to Dr. Giselle Sholler and Dr. Stacy Nicholson on what would have been Milan’s 21st birthday.

one day finding a cure.

ABBVIE SUPPORTS NEW IBD EDUCATION EVENT FOR FAMILIES AT LEVINE CHILDREN’S Every day, Levine Children’s Pediatric Gastroenterology experts deliver awardwinning care for the full range of digestive system disorders. To help meet the unique needs of her patients, Dr. Tiffany Linville established the inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) multidisciplinary clinic at Levine Children’s Hospital, which provides IBD-specific education and support for children and their families.

Now, with a $15,000 grant from AbbVie, Levine Children's integrated team of physicians, dietitians, social workers, psychologists, and nurses will host a new IBD education event for patient families and practitioners later this year. The interactive event will include disease-focused presentations and break-out groups, fostering learning and meaningful connections among patient families.

In 2021, Levine Children's Hospital was named a Best Children's Hospital by U.S. News & World Report in Gastroenterology and GI Surgery.

"Pediatric patients with Inflammatory Bowel Disease and their families face many challenges that affect their quality of life and ultimately can affect disease management. Our goal is for participants to increase their knowledge about IBD, improve their quality of life, and improve outcomes. We also hope our patients and their families feel connected to a community and feel empowered by our available resources."

– TIFFANY LINVILLE, MD, DIRECTOR OF THE PEDIATRIC INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE PROGRAM, ATRIUM HEALTH LEVINE CHILDREN’S

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GIFT PLANNING PLAN FOR TOMORROW, TODAY It is a new season in life and there is no better time to think about your future. As you reflect on all you have done with your life, what legacy do you want to leave? If you do not have a will or estate plan, now is the time to create or update yours. When you do, you will find ways to: 1. Leave more for your family and the causes you support.

2. Create income for you, your spouse, and your family.

3. Ensure you leave the legacy you want.

With even a simple plan, you can protect your family and leave a legacy that reflects your life’s work.

SUPPORTING ATRIUM HEALTH FOUNDATION THROUGH YOUR ESTATE Atrium Health Foundation supports world-class programs, services, and facilities, such as:

Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute

Levine Children’s

Levine Cancer Institute

Expert primary and specialty care for children

World-class cancer care close to home

Neurosciences Institute

Musculoskeletal Institute

Women’s Care

Advanced brain and spine expertise

Top orthopedic, sports medicine and spine care

Personalized care for your health journey

Specialized care for every heart condition

Gift by Will (Bequest) - Include specific language in your will or trust naming Atrium Health Foundation as the beneficiary of a testamentary gift. Simply specify a specific dollar amount, a percentage of your estate or the residue of your estate.

Beneficiary of your IRA or Retirement Plan - Name Atrium Health Foundation as the beneficiary of your retirement funds (e.g. IRA, 401(k) or 403(b) plans) to reduce or eliminate taxes completely.

Philanthropy serves an important role in fulfilling Atrium Health's vision for the future of healthcare. A variety of options are available for you to plan for tomorrow, today. Atrium Health Foundation can help you establish your unique legacy gift to improve health, elevate hope and advance healing – for all!

Please let us know if you have already included Atrium Health in your estate plans as we would like the opportunity to properly thank you.

For more information contact Atrium Health Foundation at 704-355-4048.

Information provided is general in nature. It is not intended to be, and should not be construed as, legal or tax advice. Atrium Health Foundation does not provide legal or tax advice.

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SATURDAY, JUNE 4

5K Run where the big cats prowl!

Join the Keep Pounding 5K this June, starting at Levine Cancer Institute and ending in Bank of America stadium.

Benefiting cancer research and patient care at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute and Atrium Health Levine Children's.

Register today: KeepPounding5K.org

P R E S E N T E D BY:

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID CHARLOTTE, NC PERMIT # 3156

208 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203 atriumhealthfoundation.org

TAKING SHAPE: DAVID L. CONLAN CENTER AT CAROLINAS REHABILITATION

Carolinas Rehabilitation is taking shape, thanks to a lead gift from Margaret and Smoky Bissell and Bissell Ballantyne, who recently committed $30 million to establish the David L. Conlan Center at Carolinas Rehabilitation. Mr. and Mrs. Bissell, Annette Siverling, and Mrs. Jane Conlan (pictured) recently joined the Carolinas Rehabilitation leadership team to tour the new flagship hospital under construction.