Momentum Magazine Spring 2023

A Message from our Board Chair:

As we approach the two-year milestone of our Giving Hope campaign, it’s exciting to share that we’re nearly halfway to our goal of raising $500 million to transform healthcare delivery in the communities Atrium Health serves. It’s rewarding to help lead an effort that has ignited such passion for giving back, strengthening what was already a firm foundation at our health system.

Individuals, family foundations, and corporations have all inspired us with their commitments to improving access to care, environments for care delivery, cuttingedge research, and education. From breaking ground on the second campus of the Wake Forest School of Medicine in Charlotte, to celebrating the incredible legacies of some of our top physicians and leaders, we have started 2023 recognizing the circle of life.

Those who are with us now, and those who have gone on ahead of us, have all contributed to the sparks that continue to shine the way for future generations.

With gratitude,

Mandy Houser Board Chair, Atrium Health Foundation

Dear Friends,

The Spark – the artwork on the cover of this issue of Momentum – demonstrates perfectly what Atrium Health Foundation has experienced over the past few months. Intense feelings (sparks) of gratitude have led to transformational gifts in support of our Giving Hope campaign.

A new rehabilitation hospital opened. Family foundations generously supported cardiac, cancer, and women’s care. A dedicated board member danced to raise funds for pediatric cancer research. And NASCAR professionals drove for a cause and donated to cancer programs and facilities. Each one of these donors was a spark that started a flame.

Last year, we raised close to $57 million – one of our most successful years to date. And this year, we’re off to a record-breaking start. While we have gained so much, we have also experienced the loss of some of our most beloved and generous leaders and benefactors.

I hope you enjoy the stories of our “sparks,” and join me as we continue to carry their torch and fulfill our mission of ensuring health, hope, and healing – for all.

Armando Chardiet President, Atrium Health Foundation

Momentum

“Momentum is a powerful word, one that signifies the growth and continual progress we strive for within our health system.”

Run where the big cats prowl!

A unique event for a great cause, starting at Levine Cancer Institute and ending on the field at Bank of America Stadium –home of the Carolina Panthers.

Proceeds support Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute and Levine Children’s. PRESENTED BY:

Health Foundation Board

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

Legacy of HOPE

TO HELP WOMEN AND CHILDREN THRIVE

When Anna and Tom Nelson learned of an opportunity to impact women’s health and infant mortality in North Carolina through training and education, it sparked their interest. Longtime passionate supporters of education in our community and beyond, they quickly stepped forward with a $10 million gift to Atrium Health Foundation’s Giving Hope campaign. The gift, made through the C.D. Spangler Foundation, will transform women’s care at Atrium Health facilities by increasing access to care,

This transformative gift from the C.D. Spangler Foundation will allow Atrium Health to support even more women –and their families – at every stage of the parenthood journey and help bring their children into the world with the resources and opportunities to thrive.

– EUGENE A. WOODS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ADVOCATE HEALTH

expanding education and training programs to improve birth outcomes, and providing children a healthy start in life to help prepare them for academic success.

Thomas Nelson – chair of both Atrium Health’s board of directors and the Advocate Health board, of which Atrium Health is a part – and wife Anna are committed to supporting a multifaceted strategy to improve health access and overall health for women and adolescent girls across the state.

Meeting Women Where They Are

With support from the C.D. Spangler Foundation, Atrium Health will enhance its maternal care and healthy beginnings program, expanding both CenteringPregnancy, which engages moms in group prenatal care, and CenteringParenting, which emphasizes family-centered, well-child care. Participation in these programs has led to decreased rates of preterm and low-weight babies, and improvements in breastfeeding rates, spacing between pregnancies, recommended health care visits, and immunization rates.

Additional support from the foundation will promote community doulas and in-home care – a cost efficient approach to improving perinatal and postpartum outcomes. Funding will also help expand the “Drive to Thrive” mobile medical outreach program to serve those who have limited access to reproductive, maternal, and prenatal care.

Experiential Education & Training

To further advance Atrium Health as an academic learning health system, a portion of the C.D. Spangler Foundation gift will support training and recruitment. The funds will establish a women’s care mobilized training program to deliver team-based medical simulation for health care professionals across the state.

Dr. Katie Borders, assistant specialty medical director for Atrium Health Women’s Care and medical director at Shelby OBGYN, has been anticipating such a training opportunity for her tri-county footprint.

“This is extremely impactful for clinical teams in rural areas like Cleveland County, where we don’t have access to simulation training resources onsite,” said Borders. “By taking this training on the road, Atrium Health will help providers promote safe birth practices, create consistency in contraception and reproductive education, and directly target disparities to improve health outcomes for women and babies.”

Continued on pg. 4

Dr. Katie Borders

Medical simulation training, which will be available to professionals across the state, will be supported by the C.D. Spangler Foundation gift.

C.D. SPANGLER FOUNDATION

Continued from pg. 3

Future Academic Growth

“Thanks to Anna and Tom Nelson, Atrium Health has the opportunity to change so many lives for the better,” said Dr. Suzanna Fox, deputy chief physician executive and women’s care service line medical director for Atrium Health. Not only will Women’s Care broaden their training efforts, but they will advance recruitment and retention efforts by establishing the Spangler Family Endowed Professorship in Obstetrics and Gynecology. The new faculty position will help Atrium Health recognize prominent, current talent, giving teammates academic and scientific freedom to pursue their ideas and ensuring an ongoing spotlight on women’s care throughout the region.

“This transformative gift from the C.D. Spangler Foundation will allow Atrium Health to support even more women –and their families – at every stage of the parenthood journey and help bring their children into the world with the resources and opportunities to thrive,” said Eugene A. Woods, chief executive officer of Advocate Health.

North Carolina reports some of the poorest health outcomes for women, including the 11th highest infant mortality rate in the country. “Through our investment in Atrium Health’s women’s care programs, we want to positively impact these outcomes, elevate the importance of maternal care, and educate women and teens, meeting them where they are – in a trusted environment,” said Anna Nelson, director of the C.D. Spangler Foundation.

THANKS TO ANNA AND TOM NELSON, ATRIUM HEALTH HAS THE OPPORTUNITY TO CHANGE SO MANY LIVES FOR THE BETTER. ”

DR. SUZANNA FOX DEPUTY CHIEF PHYSICIAN EXECUTIVE WOMEN’S CARE SERVICE LINE MEDICAL DIRECTOR, ATRIUM HEALTH

Leon Levine

JUNE 8, 1937 – APRIL 5, 2023

The Atrium Health family grieves the loss of one of the Carolinas’ most beloved philanthropists and the largest individual donor to Atrium Health Foundation, Leon Levine. Our leaders and teammates collectively extend our deepest sympathies to the Levine family and offer our gratitude for their efforts and impact in bringing health, hope, and healing – for all.

Visionary and compassionate, Leon embodied everything that represented good in the world. Not only was he a beloved family man, but he was also a facilitator of change. Over the years, he and his wife, Sandra, thoughtfully nurtured Charlotte’s evolution by supporting the community’s physical, mental, and emotional needs through medical assistance in scientific research; pursuing academic excellence; providing access for disadvantaged or deserving individuals; building Jewish identity and strengthening Jewish communities locally and worldwide; eliminating homelessness; improving the lives of families, children and the elderly; and supporting cultural expression. No matter where one lives in our community, it is likely a stone’s throw from a charitable organization impacted by the Levine‘s generous support or even a building that bears their name.

Among Charlotte’s most prominent leaders, Leon Levine established a legacy of philanthropic support to benefit the people of the Carolinas in more ways than one. Founder of Family Dollar Stores and a life-long entrepreneur, he leaves a rich legacy at Atrium Health. His first gift to the organization was in 1987 – a pledge to support Children’s Miracle Network. Given Leon’s keen sense of responsibility to children, he continued to support pediatric health and committed a $10 million gift in 2003 to establish Levine Children’s Hospital, stating, “There is no greater investment that you can make than in the life of a child.” It was The Leon Levine Foundation’s largest gift at the time, and it inspired other donors across the Carolinas to follow in his footsteps and give generously.

In 2010, Leon and Sandra stepped up again, this time to change the course of cancer care in the Carolinas with a $20 million leadership gift to establish the Levine Cancer Institute. Leon realized the need for Levine Cancer Institute to take a national leadership role in building a research and treatment model that would provide better access to cancer care and offer hope to his fellow citizens. Building upon their first gift to Levine Cancer Institute in 2016, they supported a second Levine Cancer Institute facility with a $25 million gift.

Continued on pg. 6

LEON LEVINE

Continued from pg. 5

Passionate about meeting the unmet needs of the behavioral health system, Leon and his family established the Mindy Ellen Levine Behavioral Health Center in Davidson in 2014. The following year, they funded a psychiatry residency program to address the shortage of providers.

A selfless philanthropist, Leon went on to invest in many other areas of Atrium Health to ensure world-class care, innovative research and excellence in education. His gifts spanned supporting Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, a young women’s breast cancer program, endowed chairs in cancer research, an adolescent and young adult cancer survivorship clinic, a bone marrow transplant unit at Levine Children’s Hospital, muscular dystrophy research, and so much more.

Leon’s greatest gift is his legacy. The programs and facilities he has supported have truly changed the course of care at Atrium Health. Our teammates and patients will forever feel his imprint on their lives.

“Leon’s passing is a profound loss for the Atrium Health family and beyond,” said Gene Woods, chief executive officer of Advocate Health, of which Atrium Health is a part. “He dedicated his life to helping others and, through his major investments, he shaped the way we deliver care at Atrium Health, especially in pediatric and cancer care. For decades, his philosophy was not only about transforming care but also lifting up every corner of our community. His tremendous generosity is felt across the Carolinas today and because of him, there’s a child taking his first steps, a father walking his daughter down the aisle, and a neighbor being the first in their family to graduate from college. His legacy will live on for generations to come through the lives he has touched.”

LEON LEVINE’S

1987

The Levine family’s first contribution to Children’s Miracle Network

2003

$10 million to name Levine Children’s Hospital (LCH)

2007

$250,000 to create the Dorothy and Herman Poliakoff Garden at LCH in memory of Sandra’s parents

2007

$200,000 to support Muscular Dystrophy Research

2008

$100,000 to support CMC Parkinson Disease & Movement Center

2008

$5.5 million challenge grant made to LCH

2009

$6 million to establish the Levine Endowment for the Future to advance research, programs, and patient outreach at LCH

2010

$20 million to establish the headquarters of Levine Cancer Institute (LCI)

2014

$3 million to establish the Mindy Ellen Levine Behavioral Health Center ($1 million from the Leon Levine Foundation, with additional $2 million from Levine family members)

LEGACY OF GIVING

2015

$3 million to establish the Sandra and Leon Levine Psychiatry Residency Program

2015

$100,000 challenge grant made at the inaugural Levine Children’s Gala

2016

$1 million to establish the Sandra Levine Young Women’s Breast Cancer Program

2017

$2 million in support of clinical research at LCI and programs to reduce disparities in cancer care

2019

Expansion of the Bone Marrow Transplant and Cellular Therapies unit at LCH with leading support from the Levine family

2019

$4 million personally pledged by Leon Levine, in support of LCH and LCI

2017 $2 million to establish the distinguished chair in Laboratory Cancer Research and the Adolescent and Young Adult Survivorship Clinic

2023

Sandra Levine commits $500K on behalf of her family at Levine Children’s Gala to support pediatric behavioral health

2016

$25 million committed to LCI II

$1 million challenge grant made at Levine Children’s Gala

2017 $1 million to support Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute’s new headquarters at Kenilworth Medical Plaza

2021

Leon dedicated his life to helping others and, through his major investments, he shaped the way we deliver care at Atrium Health, especially in pediatric and cancer care.

GENE WOODS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ADVOCATE HEALTH

Dr. Derek Raghavan

A LEGACY OF EXCELLENCE

Under Dr. Derek Raghavan’s leadership, Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute (LCI) has evolved into one of the nation’s preeminent cancer centers, renowned for its innovative treatments, cutting-edge clinical research, and patient-centered care. Appointed as founding president in 2010, even before ground had broken on construction of LCI’s flagship hospital, Dr. Raghavan was recruited to create a model of decentralized cancer care, one that would expand the health system’s reach into underserved populations across the Carolinas.

Not only did Dr. Raghavan champion efforts to expand access to care, his advocacy for patient-centered care led to LCI’s designation as a Planetree organization–the world’s first cancer network to receive this highest achievement in patient-centered care.

During his tenure, Dr. Raghavan has helped expand LCI's network to include more than 150 providers at over 25 care locations; the region’s first adult blood and marrow transplant unit; robust survivorship, integrative oncology, and cancer rehabilitation programs; a distinguished clinical research program offering the latest therapies and treatments; and a comprehensive disparities and outreach program providing unparalleled access to care for those who need it most.

This February, colleagues, family members, and friends celebrated Dr. Raghavan's retirement as president of Levine Cancer Institute, capping off a distinguished and exemplary career that has spanned the globe. Dr. Raghavan’s contributions to clinical research made him a rising star early in his career, including his work as a PhD student at the University of London, and with the Ludwig Institute for Cancer Research, following his residency and fellowship at the University of Sydney, Australia.

DEREK, YOU REIMAGINED THE CANCER CARE PROVIDED AT ATRIUM HEALTH AND MADE IT INTO A NATIONAL MODEL, WITH AN UNWAVERING FOCUS ON KEEPING THE PATIENT AT THE CENTER OF EVERYTHING WE DO.

– GENE WOODS CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ADVOCATE HEALTH

Renowned internationally as both a cancer researcher and medical oncologist, Dr. Raghavan has edited nine textbooks, published more than 300 papers in peer-reviewed journals, served on editorial boards of numerous medical journals, and has been a principal investigator for more than a dozen major research grants. Honored in 2019 by the World Affairs Council of Charlotte as Citizen of the World, Dr. Raghavan has left his imprint on the community, including numerous contributions to Charlotte’s cultural and performing arts institutions.

Derek Raghavan, MD, PhD, FACP, FRACP, FASCO, FAAS President, Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute (2011-2022)

Dr. Raghavan received highest praise at the retirement celebration through a personal message shared on behalf of Gene Woods, chief executive officer of Advocate Health: “Derek, you reimagined the cancer care provided at Atrium Health and made it into a national model, with an unwavering focus on keeping the patient at the center of everything we do,” Gene wrote. “Please know there can be no greater legacy than that – and we are grateful for your leadership, your vision, and your relentless pursuit of excellence that will continue to impact lives for generations to come.”

Creating a bright future for Levine Cancer Institute

Dr. Raghavan’s legacy will live on through the establishment of the Dr. Derek Raghavan Endowed Chair in Cancer Research and Education. Representing the highest level of distinction for a physician at Atrium Health, the endowed chair will provide a permanent funding source to ensure the long-term success and impact of the Levine Cancer Institute network, allowing medical students, residents, and fellows the opportunity to work with and learn from the distinguished recipient.

To learn more, visit AtriumHealthFoundation.org/Raghavan.

1. Atrium Health Foundation welcomed more than 100 guests at the Ballantyne Resort for an evening celebrating Dr. Derek Raghavan's retirement and legacy as president of Levine Cancer Institute. 2. Dr. Raghavan (right) was honored by many of his closest friends, including LCI benefactors Larry and Dale Polsky (from left). 3. Honored guest Sandra Levine was recognized for her generosity in supporting Dr. Raghavan's legacy of excellence at LCI. 4. Dr. Raghavan joined Armando Chardiet (left), president of Atrium Health Foundation, and benefactor Sandra Levine (right) to receive his honorary white coat. 5. From left: Dr. Peter Voorhees, Dr. Asim Amin, Dr. Antoinette Tan, and Dr. Nilanjan Ghosh were among esteemed LCI colleagues who joined Dr. Raghavan for his celebration.

Catalysts

for Cardiovascular Care Transformation:

THE WILLIAM, JEFF, AND JENNIFER GROSS FAMILY FOUNDATION

Atrium Health Foundation has received a $2 million gift from the California-based William, Jeff, and Jennifer Gross Family Foundation to endow the medical director for The Jenny & Jeff Gross Family Center for Cardiovascular Care Transformation at Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute.

This is the third gift from the Gross family to support the Center, which serves as the catalyst for innovation in education, research, and clinical care pathways necessary to support foundational change in Atrium Health’s delivery of cardiovascular care.

An endowed chair is the highest level of distinction for a physician at Atrium Health. It provides a perpetual funding source to ensure the long-term success of a program and, in this case, ensures that Atrium Health is always able to attract and retain the country’s best cardiologists to lead The Jenny & Jeff Gross Family Center for Cardiovascular Care Transformation at Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute.

The first named chairholder of the Gross Family Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Medicine is William E. Downey, MD, vice chair of quality care and transformation. The endowed chair will support his pioneering cardiovascular research and programmatic needs at The Jenny & Jeff Gross Family Center for Cardiovascular Care Transformation.

“With this transformational gift from the Gross family, Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, under Dr. Downey's clinical leadership, is poised to revolutionize cardiovascular care for high-risk and underserved populations served by Atrium Health,” said Geoffrey Rose MD, president of Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute.

In recent years, support from the Gross family has fostered new models of care across Atrium Health’s growing footprint. The Jenny & Jeff Gross Family Center for Cardiovascular Care Transformation has established a virtual Hypertension Bootcamp, leveraging in-home monitoring and a multidisciplinary team to tackle one of healthcare’s greatest challenges.

In addition, funding from the Gross Family has helped build an advanced analytics team focusing on enterprise-wide opportunities for quality improvement, including studying major cardiovascular diseases for sources of inequity in outcomes, and creating disease-specific action plans to address them.

Atrium Health applauds the Gross family’s vision and leading support as catalysts for cardiovascular care transformation – for all.

William E. Downey, MD, MSc, FACC, FSCAI, attended medical school at Duke University and completed his residency at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, and fellowships in cardiovascular medicine and interventional cardiology at Massachusetts General Hospital. Dr. Downey is board-certified in cardiovascular disease and interventional cardiology, and is the vice chair of quality and care transformation at Atrium Health.

“THANKS TO SANGER AND BILL DOWNEY, MD, OUR FAMILY HAS RECEIVED LIFESAVING CARDIOVASCULAR CARE,” SAID BENEFACTOR JEFF GROSS. “WE ARE FOREVER GRATEFUL FOR DR. DOWNEY’S EXPERTISE AND ARE THRILLED TO MAKE THIS DONATION TO BENEFIT OTHERS WHO ARE IN NEED OF THE BEST HEART CARE.”

Healing Hearts,

Transforming Lives: THE DOWD FOUNDATION

A$2 million gift from The Dowd Foundation will support the new Cardio-Oncology Center of Excellence, a coordinated effort between Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute and Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute. In recognition of The Dowd Foundation’s support, the center will be named The Dowd Foundation Center for Cardio-Oncology and will be housed in Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute at Kenilworth Medical Plaza. The Center will emphasize prevention, early detection, and treatment of cardiac side effects in patients receiving life-prolonging cancer therapies, and optimize the heart health of cancer survivors.

Spearheaded by renowned cardiologist Dr. Jai Singh, The Dowd Foundation Center for Cardio-Oncology combines the expertise of Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute and Levine Cancer Institute to create a multidisciplinary team that provides comprehensive and coordinated care for patients before, during, and after cancer treatment. This innovative care model aims to reduce cardiovascular disease and improve cardiovascular health in patients with a history of cancer.

“We are very grateful to The Dowd Foundation for their support of Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute and Levine Cancer Institute — sharing the vision of building The Dowd Foundation Center for Cardio-Oncology to become one of the nation’s premier Centers," said Dr. Geoffrey Rose, president of Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute.

The Dowd Foundation’s support of Atrium Health programs dates back nearly 40 years, with its first gift to Children’s Miracle Network in 1985. The Foundation, Dowd family, and their family business, Charlotte Pipe and Foundry, are also loyal supporters of Levine Children’s Hospital. Under the direction of board member Frank Dowd IV, The Dowd Foundation’s transformational gift to Atrium Health’s cardio-oncology program is especially personal.

Dowd’s wife, Janis, passed away in 2021 from heart failure as a side effect from cancer treatment. A former competitive swimmer and Olympian, philanthropist, and two-time survivor of non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, Janis was a fighter despite the toll chemotherapy and radiation took on her body. Support for The Dowd Foundation Center for CardioOncology is a lasting tribute to her life and a commitment to other patients undergoing cancer treatment.

Our family is honored to support Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute and The Dowd Foundation Center for Cardio-Oncology to advance this groundbreaking field of medicine. Having witnessed firsthand the compassionate, expert care Sanger’s team provided to Janis, we hope this gift will impact the program and elevate care for other patients for years to come.

– FRANK DOWD IV

A rapidly evolving field of medicine, cardio-oncology focuses on the prevention and treatment of adverse cardiac effects of cancer therapies (cardiotoxicity).

Cardiotoxicity is common, and unique by treatment type, highlighting the importance of cardio-oncology specialists staying ahead of breakthroughs in cancer care and its potential cardiovascular consequences.

Janis Dowd

CEO AND CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD CHARLOTTE PIPE AND FOUNDRY

Edward John BROWN III

APRIL 28, 1948 – APRIL 3, 2023

The Atrium Health family celebrates the life and legacy of Ed Brown, a prominent business leader and selfless philanthropist who inspired others to make a difference in the community.

Born in Savannah, Georgia, Ed attended Sacred Heart Catholic School and Benedictine Military School, graduating in 1966. He earned a B.S. in Industrial Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology and completed an MBA in Finance at Harvard Business School in 1972. Ed spent the next several decades climbing the corporate ladder in banking, with only a three-month military leave to serve his country in the U.S. Army. Ed later joined Bank of America, where he served as a leader for 32 years under the tutelage of his friend and mentor, Hugh McColl.

In 2010, Ed came out of retirement when Rick Hendrick asked him to lead Hendrick Automotive Group, the largest privately held operator of automobile dealerships in the United States. Throughout Ed’s nine-year tenure as president and CEO of the company, he dedicated himself to expanding its corporate social responsibility programs, leaving a lasting impact on the company's culture and the communities it serves.

Ed’s commitment to the community is illustrated by the time, resources, and energy he dedicated to making life better for others. He served on the Atrium Health Board of Commissioners for 19 years, including as chairman from 2013 to 2021, where his leadership was instrumental in guiding the health care system through significant changes, including the partnership with Wake Forest Baptist Health.

“From challenging us to build new access care sites in vulnerable communities to making sure we took care of our own teammates to pushing us to invest our resources in Black-owned equity firms, Ed worked tirelessly to make certain that Atrium Health was truly a place for all,” said Advocate Health CEO Eugene Woods.

Ed and his beloved wife Jan found joy in giving back to others. Over the years, they supported many causes close to their hearts, mostly in education and health care. In 2020, Ed seized the opportunity to help lead significant change in our community with a $2 million transformational gift, establishing the Jan & Ed Brown Center for Pulmonary Medicine at Atrium Health. Just two years later, Jan and Ed contributed $1 million to help bring novel therapies in lymphoma treatment to Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute.

While Ed created an immeasurable legacy, he felt the most pride in his role as a husband, father, and friend. His legacy will forever be a beacon of hope, guiding us to be kinder and more generous.

Atrium Health Foundation extends our heartfelt sympathy and gratitude to Jan and the Brown family. To honor Ed’s legacy, tribute contributions may be made in his memory to the Ed and Jan Brown Lymphoma Research Fund at AtriumHealthFoundation.org/tribute.

TAKING CENTER STAGE TO FIGHT PEDIATRIC CANCER

In March, Atrium Health Foundation board member Beverly Ladley danced into the hearts of guests at Charlotte Ballet's Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte Gala. The philanthropist took center stage to support both the Ballet and cancer research at Levine Children's Hospital.

Beverly and her husband, Mark, have dedicated much of their lives to advancing pediatric brain tumor research in honor of their late son, John Francis Ladley III, who passed away in 2000 at the age of 15 months after battling a malignant brain tumor. Together, with support from their dedicated network of friends and family, the Ladleys established the Baby J Fund and have raised over $1 million for pediatric brain tumor research at Levine Children’s.

Thanks to generous supporters of Beverly and her Charlotte Ballet dance partner, Juan Castellanos, the dynamic duo raised over $210,000 for Charlotte Ballet and Levine Children’s.

Beverly Ladley and the Charlotte Ballet’s Juan Castellanos gave a showstopping performance, dancing to top country hits.

Beverly, Mark and Baby J

Photography: Jeff Cravotta, Heather Fink, and Angela Tucker

A Vibrant Future for Carolinas Rehabilitation

COMMUNITY CELEBRATES GRAND OPENING OF THE DAVID L. CONLAN CENTER

For 72 years, Carolinas Rehabilitation’s world-class team of physicians, therapists, and allied health professionals have served patients from across the Carolinas, and far beyond.

Adding to this rich history, the opening of the Carolinas Rehabilitation David L. Conlan Center—the first step in the transformation of the Carolinas Medical Center campus—represents a new era in rehabilitative medicine at Atrium Health.

3. The AlterG® zerogravity treadmill is designed to lessen patients' pain and help physical therapy specialists track patients’ progress.

This January marked the grand opening of the David L. Conlan Center, the region’s first state-of-theart rehabilitation hospital, which was established with a $30 million gift from Charlotte developer and philanthropist Howard C. “Smoky” Bissell, his wife Margaret, and Bissell Ballantyne. The gift honors the late David L. Conlan, former patient at Carolinas Rehabilitation; the longtime friend, colleague, and trusted advisor to Bissell; and partner to the Bissell family.

In addition to naming the David L. Conlan Center, the Bissell gift will be used to advance the reach, geography, and efficacy of existing and future rehabilitation services and programs offered by Carolinas Rehabilitation, which currently encompasses five inpatient hospitals and 18 outpatient locations.

Signifying a milestone in Carolinas Rehabilitation’s legacy, the grand opening of the David L. Conlan Center was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Advocate Health and Carolinas Rehabilitation leaders, teammates, patients, and benefactors.

“Today is a realization of what David knew, which [is] how strong a foundation this institution is built upon,” said Mr. Bissell, as he addressed attendees of the grand opening.

A distinctive legacy intersects with a vibrant future

Carolinas Rehabilitation is nationally known as a U.S. News and World Report “Best Hospital,” specializing in innovative, personalized therapy for common to complex conditions caused by injury or illness. The opening of the new David L. Conlan Center further elevates this world-class center of care for the entire region.

“We have established a standard of excellence that is recognized as being among the best in the nation. The care we provide in the new David L. Conlan Center at Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation can be even better, ensuring the highest-quality care for our patients for decades to come,” said Robert Larrison, enterprise group vice president for the Atrium Health Rehabilitation Network and president for Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation.

The new hospital includes 72 patient rooms, private treatment spaces, a therapy garden, and 16,000 square feet of inpatient and outpatient therapy space. Other unique services include spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and cancer programs; an OB-GYN clinic for patients who regularly use wheelchairs; and the Adaptive Sports and Adventures Program, which provides sports opportunities for people with mobility impairments.

Each year, Carolinas Rehabilitation admits more than 3,600 patients with life altering injuries and diseases. The hospital is an integral part of all Atrium Health world-class service lines, including Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute, Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute, Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital, Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, and Atrium Health Neurosciences Institute.

From left: Jane Conlan pictured with Margaret and Smoky Bissell alongside David Conlan’s portrait.

1. Smoky Bissell addresses attendees of the grand opening.

2. Advocate Health and Carolinas Rehabilitation leaders and teammates were joined by donors and community leaders for the grand opening of the David L. Conlan Center.

“Next Crown Jewel” of the Queen City

The Queen City’s skyline will soon shine brighter as Atrium Health, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, and Wexford Science & Technology, LLC, usher in a new era in medical education and innovation for the region. This January, the first shovels of dirt were turned to commemorate the groundbreaking of Charlotte’s long-awaited and first four-year medical school, which will be anchored by the Howard R. Levine Center for Education in the heart of The Pearl innovation district.

Wake Forest University School of Medicine Charlotte – the second campus of the school of medicine – is expected to seat its first class in 2025. The new medical school will be joined by Carolinas College of Health Sciences, which has announced plans to relocate to The Pearl, along with connections to Wake Forest’s School of Professional Studies and School of Business, and other educational opportunities.

“I am honored to be a partner in Atrium Health’s endeavor to bring innovation to the Center City and establish Wake Forest University School of Medicine Charlotte,” said local businessman and philanthropist Howard Levine, founder of the Howard R. Levine Foundation. “Our family looks forward to the opportunities that will unfold for all who wish to pursue higher education and positively impact the health of our community.”

Levine's foundation provided a $25 million gift to name The Pearl’s signature academic building. It was the first major gift made to the Giving Hope campaign, which launched in 2021 to support key components of Atrium Health's physical and programmatic growth and infrastructure.

The Pearl will help reshape and diversify the economy of the Charlotte region, integrating research, clinical expertise, entrepreneurial activity, corporate engagement and community inclusion. In addition to the Levine Center and a 331,000-squarefoot research building, The Pearl will also feature STEM educational laboratories, retail space, apartments, a hotel, and open community spaces.

“Not only will The Pearl serve as a major engine of economic opportunity, but it will also house gamechanging academic programs for learners of all degree levels and set the stage for innovative health science businesses to grow into the core companies of Charlotte’s future,” said Eugene A. Woods, CEO of Advocate Health, of which Atrium Health is a part.

“We are creating a ‘city within a city,’ where excellence lives, and excellence is learned. And as we begin this new chapter on these storied grounds, we are deeply committed to partnering with the communities around it and honoring its rich history.”

While paying tribute to the significance of its historical roots, The Pearl will pave the way to a brighter future for health care delivery grounded in research and academics. Together, the WinstonSalem and Charlotte campuses of Wake Forest University School of Medicine will comprise the academic core of Advocate Health, creating an unparalleled, regional corridor for health technology and innovation in the Carolinas.

A BRIGHT FUTURE AWAITS:

• The Pearl will house the exclusive North American headquarters of IRCAD, a France-based, global, surgical training center.

• Over the next 15 years, The Pearl and its tenants are projected to create more than 5,500 onsite jobs and more than 11,500 jobs, in total, in the Charlotte community.

• The new school of medicine and the anticipated spin-off activities are projected to generate an additional $5.2 billion in economic impact and create nearly 43,000 jobs over the course of the next 20 years.

• The expanded footprint of the school of medicine will increase national recognition of growing areas of study, such as Aging & Mobility; Alzheimer's Disease; Cancer; Regenerative Medicine; and Diabetes & Obesity.

1. Local businessman and philanthropist Howard Levine was honored for his transformational gift made to establish the Howard R. Levine Center for Education. 2. This January, leaders of Advocate Health, Wake Forest University School of Medicine, and Wexford Science & Technology, LLC gathered for a ceremonial groundbreaking of the Wake Forest School of Medicine Charlotte.

RESEARCH

Amgen Grant to Support Outreach & Disparities Program at Levine Cancer Institute

Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute’s Outreach & Disparities program recently received $250,000 from Amgen to support vital outreach services, including LCI: Project PINK and Project PINK Plus, breast cancer screening programs offered free of charge to local residents; Renacer, a community-based cancer support program for Latino and Hispanic patients; Code T.O.M., a free cancer education and screening program specially designed for local firefighters; and two mobile lung CT units that provide free screenings for head, neck, and lung cancers.

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS ARE ESSENTIAL FOR US TO FULFILL OUR MISSION OF PROVIDING OPPORTUNITIES FOR CANCER PREVENTION AND EARLY DETECTION IN COMMUNITIES THAT ARE MOST AT-RISK.

• In 2022, Atrium Health received the American Cancer Society (ACS) Health System/Patient Support Team of the Year award, acknowledging LCI's unparalleled efforts to address disparities in cancer care.

CLINICAL CARE EDUCATION Grants Recent ACHIEVEMENTS

• The Levine Cancer Institute Disparities and Outreach program is recognized by the Commission on Cancer for its commitment to raising standards and improving outcomes for patients with cancer.

• Renacer is one of the first programs in the country to address the lack of access to culturally competent, community-based cancer survivor support programs in the Hispanic/Latino population.

— TIFFANY W. CRANK, MPH MANAGER, HEALTH PROMOTION AND COMMUNITY OUTREACH, LEVINE CANCER INSTITUTE DISPARITIES AND OUTREACH

Diabetes Management Gets Boost from The Duke Endowment

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic disease affecting nearly 1 in 10 adults in the United States. In the Carolinas, considered part of the 15-state Diabetes Belt, disease prevalence is significantly higher, especially in rural communities.

With recent support from The Duke Endowment, Atrium Health aims to significantly improve type 2 diabetes management at rural primary care practices in the Greater Charlotte area by establishing a culturally tailored, telehealth-based clinical pharmacy program. The pilot study, which received $315,000 in grant funding from The Duke Endowment, will be led by Rohan Mahabaleshwarkar, PhD, an assistant professor and senior data scientist with Atrium Health's Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation.

Using telehealth technology, pharmacists will be able to identify and address medication-related problems, optimize medication regimens, and provide type 2 diabetes education and selfmanagement support.

New Study Uses Genomic Sequencing and AI Models to Predict COVID-19 Breakouts

During the pandemic, the fluctuating prevalence of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus which causes COVID-19, has caused periods of low viral circulation, followed by waves of higher infection rates and increased demand for hospital services.

With a $605,000 grant from The Duke Endowment, Atrium Health and Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist will build an AI model to better predict future waves or clusters of infections. The 2-year study, led by Mindy Sampson, DO – an infectious disease physician and hospital epidemiologist at Atrium Health – will use SARS-CoV-2 sequencing data to detect new variants. By using AI modeling, Atrium Health will be better prepared to protect community members, while deploying resources efficiently in areas of greatest need.

Research to Identify and Treat Depression in Orthopaedic Trauma Patients

While depression is more prevalent among orthopaedic trauma patients than the general population, few orthopaedic surgeons currently screen for or treat the condition. With an $80,000 research grant from the Orthopaedic Trauma Association, Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute will pilot the process for orthopaedic surgeons to safely screen for depression and intervene with the prescription of antidepressant medication. The pilot study will also track referral of patients for follow-up care with primary care providers and behavioral health specialists.

During the two-year study, principal investigators Meghan Wally, PhD, research assistant professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery at Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute, and Joseph Hsu, MD, vice chair of quality at Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute, will assess the change in patients’ depressive symptoms and adherence to treatment. Data collected through the study will help researchers understand the prevalence of depressive symptoms among orthopaedic trauma patients, assess patient interest in prescription-based therapies, and identify barriers to treatment.

Heineman Foundation of New York Supports Pediatric Cancer Clinical Trial

Childhood cancer is the second leading cause of death in children ages 1 to 14. Although advancements in the past 40 years have led to markedly improved survival rates for pediatric cancers in general, few evidencebased treatment options exist beyond standard therapies for patients diagnosed with rare cancers.

In August 2021, Levine Children’s opened a Phase I and Phase II clinical trial, known as the PEACH Protocol, for the treatment of recurrent neuroblastoma and newly diagnosed diffuse intrinsic pontine glioma – two rare childhood cancers. Under the direction of Dr. Giselle Sholler, chair of the Beat Childhood Cancer Research Consortium and medical director of the Isabella Santos Foundation Rare and Solid Tumor Program at Atrium Health Levine Children’s, the trial will test an innovative combination of molecular-guided therapy and personalized immunotherapy.

With philanthropic support from the Heineman Foundation of New York –including its most recent grant of $50,000 – and support from other generous donors, the PEACH Protocol will provide hope for families facing rare childhood cancers.

Pictured: Dr. Giselle Sholler, chair of the Beat Childhood Cancer Research Consortium and medical director of the Isabella Santos Foundation Rare and Solid Tumor Program at Atrium Health Levine Children’s

Heineman-Robicsek Foundation Removing Barriers to Heart Care

Heart failure, a disease estimated to impact 6.5 million Americans over age 20, is the most common hospital diagnosis with a high risk of readmission within 30 days. Extensive research shows early hospital follow-up is critical to improving morbidity and mortality, however, several barriers may impact patient compliance, including appointment availability and location.

To bridge the care transition from hospital to home, Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute established Mobile Integrated Health, utilizing trained paramedics to meet patients in their home, make clinical assessments and treatment decisions, and reinforce education and outpatient follow-up. The service is particularly promising for patients living with heart failure and other high-risk chronic illnesses with frequent recurrences.

Mobile Integrated Health was originally piloted for heart failure patients in a limited number of Atrium Health facilities. Thanks to a $19,000 grant from the Heineman-Robicsek Foundation, Atrium Health can now increase implementation, helping to address the care needs of even more heart failure patients.

Gene Haas Foundation Awards Multiple Grants to Levine

Children’s

For more than two decades, the Gene Haas Foundation has supported the needs of local communities by granting more than $20 million to charity. Locally, the Foundation is a committed partner of Levine Children’s Hospital, having funded two grants in 2022.

A $25,000 grant to the Almirola Family Fund will help create comfort kits provided to families during hospital stays. The initiative – which was founded by NASCAR driver Aric Almirola and his wife, Janice, after their daughter received care at Levine Children's Hospital – provides families with toys, games, parent education resources, and other essential supplies. Aric competes full time in the NASCAR Cup Series for Stewart-Haas Racing, co-owned by Gene Haas.

In addition to its continued support of the Almirola family’s efforts, the Gene Haas Foundation has awarded $25,000 to the Baby J Ladley Pediatric Brain Tumor Fund to support Dr. Giselle Sholler’s research efforts.

Philanthropist and NASCAR Hall of Fame inductee Jeff Gordon and Dr. Javier Oesterheld, senior medical director of Levine Children’s cancer and blood disorders program, tour the newly established Jeff Gordon Children's Foundation Infusion Suite, opening later this year. In 2017, Dr. Oesterheld was named the first Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Endowed Chair at Levine Children’s.

JEFF GORDON CHILDREN’S FOUNDATION SETS THE PACE FOR INNOVATIONS IN PEDIATRIC CANCER TREATMENT

Agroundbreaking gift of $1 million from Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation will help set the pace for Atrium Health Levine Children’s to make new discoveries in treating pediatric cancer. Representing an important milestone in the evolution of the Levine Children’s Medical Plaza, the newly established Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Infusion Suite features 17 state-of-the-art infusion rooms that will allow for the administration of Phase I clinical trials, Dendritic Cell Vaccines, and many other new immunotherapies for pediatric cancer patients.

“The speed with which Dr. Oesterheld and his team have strategically advanced the caliber of pediatric cancer research and treatment in Charlotte is truly remarkable,” said Gordon, founder of Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation. “And we couldn’t be more proud of JGCF’s contribution to this important endeavor.”

Anchoring the Torrence E. Hemby Jr. Pediatric Hematology, Oncology and BMT Center, the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Infusion Suite will provide the highest level of clinical care in an environment that offers play, art, music, and other vital supportive medicine modalities.

“I am deeply grateful for the support of the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation and their commitment to research – but even more so for their passion to improve the lives of pediatric cancer patients in our region,” Oesterheld said.

Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Throughout the Years

2013

Organized the inaugural “Kick-It for Children’s Cancer Charlotte Tournament” – part of a national grassroots fundraising initiative – to benefit Levine Children's Cancer and Blood Disorders program.

2013-2015

Granted more than $122,000 to Carolinas Kids Cancer Research Fund with annual proceeds from the Kick-It for Children’s Cancer Charlotte Tournament.

2016-2020

Joined two local organizations in funding a Phase II clinical trial, studying new drug combinations to prevent the formation or growth of tumors in teens and young adults with difficult to treat sarcomas. Levine Children's becomes a top referral site for the multisite clinical trial, led by Dr. Javier Oesterheld.

2017

Committed $2 million to establish the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Endowed Chair in Cancer and Blood Disorders.

2020-2022

In 2020, the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Pediatric Cancer Innovations Fund is established to support innovative medicine, clinical research, cuttingedge technology and health care delivery within the Levine children’s pediatric cancer and blood disorders program. JGCF contributes $75,000 to the newly established fund over the next two years.

A portion of this funding enables Levine Children’s to invite national speakers to

Atrium Health's main campus for presentations on advancements in cellular therapy and treatment of solid tumors in the adolescent and young adults (AYA) population.

2023

Committed $1 million to establish the Jeff Gordon Children’s Foundation Infusion Suite, representing an important milestone in the evolution of the Levine Children’s Medical Plaza. The Suite is anticipated to open later this year.

Isabella Santos Foundation

For the past 15 years, Atrium Health Foundation has been honored to partner with the Isabella Santos Foundation (ISF), whose unwavering support has allowed Atrium Health Levine Children's pediatric cancer and blood disorders program to flourish by expanding the scope of research and treatment options for rare pediatric cancers. With each year that passes, we remain deeply grateful for the miracles and milestones made possible at Levine Children's through ISF's support.

2007

Isabella Santos Foundation is established, along with the first annual ISF 5K for Kids Cancer.

2007

Isabella is diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma at 2 years old.

2012

Sadly, Isabella passes away at 7 years old after her five-year battle with neuroblastoma.

2015

First annual ISF Coffee for a Cure raises $60,000, laying the groundwork for the future Isabella Santos Rare & Solid Tumor Program at Levine Children's. The same year, ISF grants $100,000 to advance rare pediatric cancer research at Levine Children’s.

2013

ISF begins funding cancer research, including $20,000 designated to support Levine Children’s cancer research program, making ISF a founding member of the Carolinas Kids Cancer Research Coalition.

2016

ISF funds a pilot study for DFMO, a new drug intended to treat recurrent neuroblastoma. The clinical trial is made available to patients of Levine Children’s.

15 YEARS OF ADVANCING TREATMENTS. CHANGING OUTCOMES. SAVING LIVES.

2018

The Isabella Santos Foundation MIBG treatment suite opens in December 2018, making it one of the only MIBG treatment rooms in the region, and one of only 20 available in the U.S.

The treatment suite features a lead-lined room where neuroblastoma patients receive special radiation treatments in isolation.

2018

ISF commits $5 million to establish the Isabella Santos Foundation Rare & Solid Tumor Program at Levine Children's, extending support to all rare and solid tumors. The program oversees care for all solid tumors, rare tumors, and MIBG therapy, as well as related clinical and scientific research.

2020

Dr. Giselle Sholler, a world-renowned cancer researcher, is recruited to lead the ISF Rare & Solid Tumor Program at Levine Children's.

2021

ISF donates $100,000 to Levine Children's, helping to fund the P.E.A.C.H. protocol.

2021

ISF establishes the Levine Children's “Live My Dream” program to support patients and families treated through the ISF Rare & Solid Tumor Program.

2022

ISF celebrates its 15th anniversary, committing to funding precision medicine for every patient treated under the ISF Rare & Solid Tumor Program.

KURT BUSCH OPENS WINDOW OF HOPE FOR WOMEN TO ACCESS MAMMOGRAMS

Bright pink window nets could be seen from a mile away during the NASCAR Cup Series ROVAL race at Charlotte Motor Speedway last October. The colorful display was part of NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kurt Busch’s Window of Hope program, which raises money for breast cancer initiatives by auctioning off signed window nets. Together with the support of 41 drivers, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina, and 23XI Racing partners, Window of Hope raised more than $100,000 for the second year in a row, this time benefiting Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute: Project PINK.

Established to increase access to life-saving mammography screenings for uninsured women, LCI: Project PINK provides free mammograms in underserved communities where the need is highest. In partnership with Charlotte Radiology, the program’s state-of-the-art mobile breast center travels throughout the community offering free screenings in a convenient, compassionate environment. If breast cancer is detected during a screening, Project PINK helps navigate the patient through treatment, from diagnosis to survivorship.

“CARING FOR INDIVIDUALS WHO LACK ACCESS TO CRITICAL RESOURCES IN OUR COMMUNITIES IS AT THE HEART OF WHAT WE DO EVERY DAY AT ATRIUM HEALTH LEVINE CANCER INSTITUTE, AND HAVING THE SUPPORT FROM PROGRAMS LIKE WINDOW OF HOPE IS ESSENTIAL TO OUR MISSION. THE FUNDS GENERATED DURING THIS YEAR’S EVENT WILL HAVE A DIRECT IMPACT ON THE CARE AND SURVIVAL OF MANY LOCAL WOMEN AND FOR THAT, WE ARE INCREDIBLY GRATEFUL.”

1.  Pops of pink adorned the window of Kurt Busch’s car at Charlotte Motor Speedway. 2. NASCAR Cup Series Champion Kurt Busch displays a pink net from his “Window of Hope” program. 3. Kurt Busch (center), joined by breast cancer survivors and supporters of the Window of Hope program.

MELLISA WHEELER DIRECTOR, DISPARITIES & OUTREACH PROGRAM ATRIUM HEALTH LEVINE CANCER INSTITUTE

SANDRA GOLDMAN TAKES FUNDRAISING TO NEW HEIGHTS

Sandra Goldman has heard the crushing message, “You have breast cancer,” six times. Since her initial diagnosis in 2010, Sandra has undergone a mastectomy and endured several rounds of chemotherapy and radiation, but her breast cancer has been relentless. Sandra now lives with metastatic breast cancer, yet her remarkable spirit and positive attitude cannot be shaken. She credits clinical research as a reason for being alive today.

No stranger to facing her fears, Sandra organized a fundraiser last October that involved jumping out of a plane at 14,000 feet. With the support of her friends and family, she took her fundraising to new heights, raising over $10,000 for breast cancer research at Levine Cancer Institute.

A

A RARE AFFAIR BOLSTERS SUPPORT FOR RARE DISEASES

This February, WARD’S Foundation welcomed guests to “A Rare Affair” at Charlotte Country Club. The inaugural event included an exclusive wine experience, a live auction, and dueling pianos, raising over $400,000 to support families facing rare diseases.

Established by Caroline and Trey Winslett, WARD’S Foundation is a tribute to their first-born child, Ward, who lost his life to a rare disease just six days shy of his 13-month birthday. The Winsletts have since turned their heartbreak into determination to inspire hope in other families facing a similar diagnosis.

WARD’S Foundation announced a $1 million pledge last year in support of rare disease care at Atrium Health Levine Children’s. The transformational gift will establish the Ward Winslett Center for Complex and Rare Diseases inside Levine Children’s Medical Plaza, ensuring patients have access to coordinated, seamless specialty care, all under one roof.

Caroline and Trey Winslett established WARD'S Foundation to honor their son's legacy and improve the lives of other families affected by rare diseases.

13-year breast cancer survivor, Sandra Goldman is a passionate philanthropist who took her fundraising to new heights at SkyDive Carolina.

BIG VICTORIES FOR THE BYRON FAMILY

Growing up, Charlotte native and NASCAR Cup Champion William Byron always counted his parents, Dana and Bill, as his biggest supporters. From building William's first go-kart when he was a child, to standing by his side at the NASCAR Cup Series Victory Lane years later, Dana has a new reason to celebrate her family’s good fortune. With the help of her care team at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute (LCI), she now calls herself a cancer survivor.

On April 11, 2021, as Dana awaited the conclusion of William's race at Martinsville Speedway, she began experiencing classic symptoms of a stroke. After she was airlifted to Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, Dana learned she had experienced a stroke due to a serious underlying condition–a cancerous tumor on the left side of her brain.

Dana’s medical team at LCI was able to successfully treat the non-Hodgkin's lymphoma primarily through radiation. Dana credits Dr. Stuart Burri, her radiation oncologist, and his pioneering approach to radiation treatment and research, for saving her life.

“I always knew I was in great hands because of the reputation of the Levine Cancer Institute,” said Dana. “I felt so fortunate to be able to get the highest quality of care and be able to remain at home during my treatment.”

To show her gratitude, Dana and the Byron family have recently joined donors in supporting Dr. Burri’s work through the Levine Cancer Institute Advancement Fund.

“Cutting-edge care in radiation oncology requires both a commitment to the best people and most technologically advanced equipment,” said Dr. Burri, chairman of radiation oncology at Levine Cancer Institute. “Philanthropic support, like the recent generous gift from the Byrons, propels the further expansion of LCI leadership in radiation oncology.”

At the start of her cancer journey, Dana didn’t know if she’d have the chance to witness another victory for William on the racetrack. But on April 11, 2022—exactly one year after her stroke—her dream came true, as she joined William in the Winner’s Circle at the Martinsville Speedway. William dedicated the victory to his mother, the No. 1 woman in his life.

1. William Byron celebrates the NASCAR Cup victory at Martinsville Speedway with parents Bill and Dana on the one-year anniversary of Dana's stroke. 2. On June 1, 2021, Dana rang ‘the bell’ to signify the end of her active cancer treatment.

IN MEMORIAM

PamelaKay FURR

AUGUST 26, 1954 – FEBRUARY 18, 2023

Atrium Health Foundation mourns the loss of Pamela Furr – a cherished community member, a philanthropist with a heart of gold, and a friend to all.

At the age of 16, Pam started her journey as a curious scholar and world traveler. With an insatiable thirst for knowledge and new horizons, she eagerly embarked on her adventures as an American Ambassador to Argentina from 1971-1972. After graduating Valedictorian from Kenston High School, Pam attended Cornell University, where she received a degree in Economics and began her illustrious career as a financier and entrepreneur, launching a student speakeasy in 1974.

Pam began her Wall Street career at Smith Barney in 1976, becoming the youngest first vice president in the firm’s 107-year history. She managed large portfolios for major institutions and led derivatives for clients globally.

She continued her unstoppable drive on the tennis court and golf course, where she sank several hole-in-one flags with finesse. Despite her 11month battle with ovarian cancer, she continued to actively contribute to the United States Tennis Association and Charlotte Tennis Association Board.

Pam was a loyal friend, mother, wife, mentor, philanthropist, and pillar of the community. Her passion for music and the fine arts was exemplified through her service on numerous boards and philanthropic endeavors, including Charlotte Concerts, Charlotte Symphony, and the Charlotte Opera.

Pam’s infectiously positive personality, unwavering optimism, and bright smile will be deeply missed by everyone who knew her. Her genuine joy for life was a gift to all who were fortunate enough to cross her path.

From all of us at Atrium Health, we extend our warmth and gratitude to David and the Furr family for their efforts to advance research and patient care at Levine Cancer Institute.

To celebrate Pam’s life, contributions may be made in Pam’s memory to Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute at AtriumHealthFoundation.org/tribute

A WARRIOR’S COURAGE TO

Figh t Like

E l ”

In May of 2020, as the world grappled with the onset of a global pandemic, another health crisis was waged against an unsuspecting little girl from Marvin, North Carolina. Bright-eyed Elly, then five years old, was taken to the pediatrician when an arm ache persisted for nearly two weeks. After a routine blood check, Elly’s parents, Russ and Amy, received the call that no parent wants to receive. Elly had been diagnosed with B-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia, one of the most common but serious forms of childhood cancer.

“It felt like all of the air was sucked out of the room, the world stopped turning, and there was no time to think or emotionally react,” recalled Russ, Elly’s father.

In less than 36 hours following her diagnosis, Elly was admitted to surgery for a port placement to begin her cancer treatment. For the two and a half years that followed, Elly fought with the heart of a “princess warrior,” as she would call herself each morning before taking oral chemotherapy and steroids – a new part of her daily life.

As kids her age enjoyed the milestones of childhood, Elly endured countless heart scans and blood draws, multiple transfusions and bone marrow biopsies, and much more. She did so with the strength of a champion, completing kindergarten and first grade virtually, and eventually accomplishing the greatest feat of all – beating cancer.

WE WERE VERY FORTUNATE FOR LEVINE CHILDREN'S AND THANKFUL FOR HOW CLOSE WE LIVE TO SUCH A GREAT HOSPITAL, SO THAT WE DIDN'T HAVE TO UPROOT OUR FAMILY FOR ELLY'S TREATMENT.

Last August, Elly’s family and care team watched with gratitude and relief as Elly, their princess warrior, rang the bell to signify the end of her active cancer treatment. Though she still has a long road ahead to be declared completely cancer-free, Elly confidently faces each new day with courage and grace, inspiring everyone around her to do the same. Elly's cancer journey even earned her a special title earlier this year, as she was named Levine Children's Hospital's newest Children's Miracle Network Champion.

1. Levine Children's Hospital provided a home away from home where Elly could enjoy the joys of childhood throughout her treatment. 2. Elly's family and friends adopted the motto "Fight like El" to encourage Elly throughout her cancer journey. 3. In August of 2021, Elly officially rang 'the bell' to signify the end of her cancer treatment.

— AMY ELLY’S MOM

UPWARD

Log-A-Load for Kids

Every year, loggers and others in the forest products community give back to their local Children's Miracle Network Hospitals through the Log-A-Load for Kids program.

In the Carolinas, Levine Children’s Hospital is fortunate to have the longstanding support of the North Carolina Forestry Association, which hosted a clay shoot in November. Thanks to participants, corporate sponsors, and the NC Forestry Association, the event raised over $23,000 for Levine Children’s.

7-Eleven

A new corporate partner of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals, 7-Eleven kicked off its first CMN campaign for local children’s hospitals this winter. During the two-month campaign, 100 Charlotte-area convenience stores participated in support of our CMN member hospital, Levine Children’s Hospital, encouraging customers to donate $1 or round up their purchase at the register.

The Ballantyne Hotel’s Gingerbread Lane

Every December, Ballantyne Hotel guests and visitors make their way down Gingerbread Lane. A favored holiday tradition, the event showcases festive gingerbread displays from local artists. Through the community’s generous donations, which count as votes for their favorite creation, Gingerbread Lane raised over $10,000 for Levine Children’s Hospital.

Blackhawk Hardware

Charlotte’s favorite locally owned Ace Hardware store helped make spirits bright over the holiday season, collecting donations at the register for Levine Children’s Hospital. Thanks to the store members and customers who donated, Blackhawk Hardware achieved another successful year of fundraising, donating over $9,771 from its 2022 campaigns.

Shell

After a successful first year, Shell announced the return of “The Giving Pump,” a philanthropic initiative benefiting children’s charities across the country. In 2022, 6,500 Shell gas stations participated in the threemonth campaign by donating a portion of purchases made at each location’s designated pump. Locally, Shell proudly supported Levine Children’s Hospital, helping to raise critical funds for pediatric patient initiatives.

Help Make Miracles Today!

Upcoming ways to support patient initiatives at Levine Children’s Hospital:

Month of May: Costco Miracle Balloon Campaign

May 24-June 4: Publix Coupon Sale Campaign

June 26-27: 7-Eleven Miracle Tournament

June 12-July 10: Walmart & Sam's Club Campaign

July 27: Dairy Queen Miracle Treat Day

For more details, visit: AtriumHealthFoundation.org/CMN

Introducing the 2022 People’s Choice Gingerbread Lane Winner, “The Night Before Squeekmas” by Aubrey Hall.

Tupungato / Shutterstock.com

Bruce VanLoon / Shutterstock.com

IHEART RADIO LISTENERS MAKE MIRACLES FOR LEVINE CHILDREN’S PATIENTS

This past December, HITS 96.1 FM listeners tuned in to Miguel & Holly’s Miracle Makers Radiothon for Levine Children’s Hospital. Broadcasting live from the Seacrest Studios, hosts Miguel Fuller and Holly O’Connor tasked listeners with becoming “miracle makers” for pediatric patients by helping to fund critical hospital equipment and medical resources. Throughout the two-day event, patient families and Levine Children’s teammates appeared as special guests, sharing their personal stories of hope and inspiring listeners to donate more than $54,000 to benefit Levine Children’s.

Thank You!

Presenting sponsor – Mark Ficken Ford Lincoln Charlotte

Phone bank sponsor – E.R. Plumbing Services

HITS 96.1 and iHeartRadio

Miguel Fuller and Holly O’Connor

HITS 96.1 listeners heard from the Jansen family about why Levine Children's Hospital is such a special place. It’s where Wren Jansen bravely fought and survived acute lymphoblastic leukemia. With the support of her family and care team, 10-year-old Wren is living a childhood free of cancer and filled with her favorite things, like unicorns and cheerleading.

Jerome (Jerry) Johnson RICHARDSON

JULY 18, 1936 - MARCH 1, 2023

Jerome “Jerry” Johnson Richardson was born in 1936, in a rural farmhouse in Spring Hope, NC. After graduating from Fayetteville High School, Richardson's determination continued with his pursuit of a Wofford College football scholarship, earning a roster spot in the NFL and rookie of the year with the Baltimore Colts in 1959.

Widely recognized for his accomplishments on the field, Jerry had a drive and work ethic, off the field, that was unmatched. He’s known for bringing the first Hardees franchise to the Carolinas, boosting economic development in a highly competitive business industry, guiding a national company, and finally realizing his ambition and relentless grit to bring an NFL team to the Carolinas. Many would share how he got an entire region to believe when the NFL’s 29th franchise was awarded in 1993.

Well beyond sports and business, Richardson’s influence extended to helping others in the community. Humbly, quietly, and without fanfare, his philanthropy totals more than half a billion dollars.

Richardson’s leadership and vision have been instrumental in bolstering the philanthropic efforts and partnership with the Carolina Panthers and Atrium Health Foundation, a collaboration that has gone on to inspire the community and drive excellence in research and support for Atrium Health’s Levine Children’s Hospital and Levine Cancer Institute.

As a grateful patient of Atrium Health Sanger Heart and Vascular Institute, Jerry created the Jerome J. and Rosalind Richardson Cardiovascular Medicine Endowment honoring Dr. Geoffrey Rose, president of Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute. Additionally, he established the Rosalind and Jerry Richardson Fund for Cardiovascular Emotional Health and Well-Being, honoring Rebecca Fallon, M.S. and Wayne Sotile, PhD, for their excellence in cardiac care and dedication to improving the emotional health and well-being of patients with cardiovascular conditions. The funds continue to provide essential support and resources for patients and their families.

Countless stories are told of how Jerry raised the level of community pride by lending a helping hand to those in need, along with his commitment to initiatives for diversity, equity and inclusion. He was a mentor and friend to many, living by the motto in life and business to “Love our people with a passion.” His inspiring presence changed thousands of lives for the better.

Atrium Health Foundation shares in the loss of a Carolina icon and extends our warmth and sympathy to Mrs. Rosalind Richardson and the family. We’re continually grateful for the vision, support and profound impact of Jerry Richardson.

RACING FOR CARDIAC REHAB

Hundreds of runners, patients, volunteers, and donors gathered for the annual Cupid’s Cup 5K this February, which grossed over $74,000 to benefit cardiac rehabilitation at Atrium Health Pineville, Atrium Health Kenilworth, Atrium Health Union, and Atrium Health Cabarrus. Event proceeds help to ensure patients can afford the cost of cardiac rehabilitation following a major cardiac event, a critical component of any heart patient’s recovery. The event also provides funding to ensure patients have access to the latest medical technology, cardiac rehab equipment, and other resources to maintain optimal heart health.

The annual race – which brings together runners of all skill levels as well as graduates of Atrium Health’s Cardiac Rehabilitation programs – is sponsored by: (Presenting) Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute; Oakworth Capital Bank; Life Systems International; the Philip Nalibotsky Family; Piedmont Plastics; Chick-fil-A Charlotte; Community Eye Care; Maxson Associates; Grove Cartel Brewing Company; and Uwharrie Bank.

Pat Kiefer’s Change of Heart

After experiencing an Aortic intramural hematoma, a life-threatening condition, Pat Kiefer made a full recovery due to the expert care he received from Atrium Health Pineville and Atrium Health Sanger Heart & Vascular Institute. A retired York County Sheriff's Commander, Pat has a new lease on life and knows how lucky he is to be alive. As a result,

1. More than 500 runners hit the streets of Charlotte's historic Dilworth neighborhood for the annual Cupid's Cup 5K. 2. Former heart patient Pat Kiefer was joined by his thoracic surgeon, Bradley LeNoir, MD, for a special reunion at the Cupid's Cup 5K.

Celebratin Atrium

Health Union West!

February marked an important milestone for Atrium Health Union West, the health system's first newly built, freestanding hospital in the Charlotte area in more than 30 years. In the hospital’s first year of operation, Atrium Health Union West teammates:

• Provided care to more than 30,500 patients

• Safely delivered 288 newborns

• Performed 2,200 surgical procedures

• Administered care during more than 19,600 Emergency Department visits

Join us in celebrating Atrium Health Union West by contributing to our future growth and development.

Visit: AtriumHealthFoundation.org /UnionWest.

he’s committed to raising awareness for heart-healthy living and the genetic factors that played a role in his own lifethreatening aortic condition. His experience even led his own brother to undergo genetic testing, potentially saving him from a similar fate.

Following treatment to repair his aortic condition, Pat entered Atrium Health Pineville’s cardiac rehabilitation program for 12 weeks. The program, which is typically not covered by private insurance, was made available to Pat with support from the Carolinas Cardiovascular Care and Rehabilitation Fund—the exclusive beneficiary of the Cupid's Cup 5K. In addition to patient scholarships, the Fund also allows Atrium Health to provide state-of-the-art equipment, outreach, and education to patients recovering from a cardiac condition or major heart event.

To learn more visit: AtriumHealthFoundatrion.org/CardiacRehabilitation.

1. Marc Kantor's tennis fundraiser

In conjunction with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, tennis professional Marc Kantor laced up his tennis shoes to raise funds for breast cancer research at Levine Cancer Institute. Marc generously donated a portion of his tennis lesson earnings at Raintree Country Club and collected community donations, raising nearly $10,000 for the cause. Dr. Antoinette Tan, chief of breast medical oncology at LCI, joined Marc for a check presentation last fall.

On the Scene

2. Celebrate the Tatas Tournament of Champions

The annual Celebrate the Tatas Tournament of Champions welcomed over 200 women in October for a weekend of friendly competition and fundraising. Together, Celebrate the Tatas and the North Carolina Adult Soccer Association raised $40,000 for local breast cancer initiatives, including Levine Cancer Institute: Project PINK, which provides free mammography screenings for local uninsured women.

The Paula Takacs Foundation for Sarcoma Research

The Paula Takacs Foundation announced its largest grant in history to Levine Cancer Institute and Levine Children's Hospital in December. Thanks to the generosity of donors and events like the Sarcoma Stomp and Golf Fore Sarcoma, executive director Susan Udelson presented a check for $275,000 to advance local sarcoma research. A reception was held late last year to celebrate the organization's achievements and the physician leaders working tirelessly to develop a cure.

3.

4. In the NIC of Time Winter Wonderland

The Hampton and Russ families of Charlotte are breathing new life into In the NIC of Time after more than a decade of fundraising. In 2022, the co-founders called upon local high school students with a passion for children’s health care to help lead fundraising initiatives benefiting neonatal patients. Together, the dedicated group of teens hosted a “Winter Wonderland” event in December, raising over $86,000 in support of the most medically fragile patients treated in Levine Children’s Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Nursery.

Thank You!

Guardian Angel Sponsors

Climate Systems

Daniel Haltiwanger

Fran and Don Russ

Bundle of Joy Sponsors

Hampton + Long

Meghan and Steve Hampton

Towne & Reese

XP Retail

On the Scene

5. Fainstein sisters named Young Ambassadors

For their birthday, twins

Bridget and Bailey Fainstein requested donations to Levine Children’s Hospital instead of gifts. With the help of friends and family, they collected many critical items, from sensory toys and rattles to essential supplies like shampoo and conditioner. Thanks to their generous efforts, Bridget and Bailey are now part of Atrium Health’s Young Ambassadors program.

On the Scene

Luminaries shine bright for patients and caregivers at Atrium Health

Last December, three Atrium Health facilities hosted luminary ceremonies to honor patients, families, and caregivers. Hundreds of luminary dedications were purchased and lit outside hospital facilities, bringing hope and joy to those spending a part of the holiday season away from home.

6. Outside Levine Children’s Hospital, community members helped shine lights of hope on pediatric patients. Dedicated corporate partner Eastwood Homes was the presenting sponsor of the event, and WBTV’s Molly Grantham emceed the special evening for Levine Children’s.

7. Atrium Health Union and Atrium Health Union West each hosted their first luminary events. Teammates and community members gathered outside the hospitals to honor and remember loved ones.

8. The HEARTest Yard unGala

The HEARTest Yard closed out American Heart Month with its second annual “unGala.” The event welcomed friends and family of Kara and Greg Olsen to Steak 48 for an evening supporting local congenital heart families. Thanks to the generosity of business and community leaders, as well as supporters from across the country, the event raised over $275,000, which equates to the cost of in-home nursing care for more than 60 heart families.

On the Scene

9. 24 Foundation Superhero Stomp

This spring, community supporters took big steps for small heroes during 24 Foundation’s annual Superhero Stomp. The event, which took place at McAlpine Creek Park, featured a 5K, 10K, and Kids Fun Run. With help from nearly 250 participants and generous corporate sponsors, 24 Foundation raised $34,000 for pediatric cancer navigation and survivorship programs at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital.

MEET ATRIUM HEALTH NURSING STAR: KRISTY MORLEY

For more than a decade, teammate Kristy Morley has proudly served Atrium Health as a labor and delivery nurse. Outside of the delivery room, one of her greatest passions is teaching fellow teammates and nursing students how to support patients and families in times of devastating loss.

Recently honored as one of Atrium Health’s rising Nursing Stars, Kristy has shown true leadership in the area of bereavement care. She currently leads a Perinatal Loss Committee and teaches an OB Core Perinatal Loss course to new teammates joining Atrium Health Women’s Care, an important responsibility she shares with her colleague and friend, April Keever.

Tasked with developing a new curriculum specific to perinatal loss in 2020, Kristy has since developed classes that are offered to new teammates across the entire health system. “As nurses and providers,” shared Kristy, “we are meeting patients at their most vulnerable, when the landscape of their lives has been forever altered.”

Understanding that trauma and loss impact both patients and health care providers, Kristy recently partnered with colleagues to transform a former office space into a bereavement room equipped with resources to bring calm and peace, such as a diffuser, mindfulness exercises, blankets, and local artwork.

“As we teach our students to hold space for their patients, we also desire for this space to be a place where our nurses can pause, breathe, and be held,” Kristy explained.

Ever mindful of Atrium Health’s ‘for all’ mission, Kristy expressed her gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside her nursing colleagues who continually advocate for patients’ needs, while also rallying around each other in times of crisis.

To support the Perinatal Loss curriculum, bereavement rooms, and other resources championed by our Nursing Stars, visit AtriumHealthFoundation.org/Nurses or scan the QR code shown below to and contribute to the Atrium Health Nursing Fund.

• Expand bereavement and nurse respite spaces across the health system

• Fund scholarships for the American Organization for Nursing Leadership Nurse Executive Fellowship

• Advance research studies to improve interdisciplinary frontline nursing care

• Support the annual Atrium Health Nursing Summit

From left: Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, Labor and Delivery teammates Kristy Morley, RN, and April Keever, MSN, RNFA, CNOR, C-EFM.

Katherine Schmitt

ATRIUM HEALTH PINNACLE AWARD FINALIST

Since 2004, Atrium Health has recognized over 200 outstanding teammates with the Pinnacle Award – the highest honor a teammate can receive for making an extraordinary impact on our health system, and the communities we serve. This year, out of 1,500 nominees, Atrium Health Foundation's Katherine Schmitt was one of 150 teammates selected as a Pinnacle Award Finalist.

Katherine joined Atrium Health in 2010 as a member of the corporate accounting team, transitioning to the Foundation as the financial services manager in 2015. Katherine was quickly recognized by leaders for her hard work and dedication and has since moved into an AVP role.

Beyond Katherine’s many contributions to the Foundation, she lives the mission of Atrium Health in her daily life. She is an active community volunteer for Leukemia Lymphoma Society, a dedicated member of Saint Gabriel’s Catholic Church, and has volunteered hundreds of hours with Catholic Charities to help Afghan refugee families assimilate to life in our community. Her passion for helping others is a testament to her commitment as a servant leader.

THE PINNACLE AWARD:

We create a space where all Belong

PINNACLE AWARD 2022

It is Atrium Health Foundation's distinct privilege to recognize Katherine in this special way for her tireless commitment to diversity and inclusion, excellence in her work, and dedication to Atrium Health's mission each day.

Finalis

This year, Pinnacle Award nominations took place across the enterprise to recognize, reward and honor teammates who best exemplify Our Culture Commitments:

We Work as One Team to make great things happen

We earn Trust in all we do

We Innovate to better the now and create the future

We drive for Excellence – always

Giving

Planting the Seeds

FOR HEALTHCARE TRANSFORMATION IN ALS CARE

As we welcome the change in seasons, springtime serves as an important reminder to ensure our plans are in place to sow seeds for the benefit of future generations. Our donors are building a strong foundation for future health innovations and medical discoveries by including the Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALS-MDA Center as a beneficiary of their estates and other financial plans.

Established in 2000 with significant philanthropic support from the community, the Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALS-MDA Center continues to grow thanks to donors' support of the Carolinas ALS Research Fund and Carolinas ALS Endowment. Donors’ gifts and bequests are vital to the work of our multidisciplinary ALS care team, including clinical research to improve ALS therapies, and thus, the quality of life for patients diagnosed with this devastating disease.

Recently, the Carolinas ALS Research Fund received a significant bequest from the estate of Kimberly Michelle Cook of Charlotte, who lived with ALS for several years until her passing in June of 2022. Described by her loved ones as a passionate and caring individual with a true zest for life, Kim's decision to designate the Carolinas ALS Research Fund as a beneficiary of her estate helps to ensure current and future patients will benefit from the best care and treatments available at the Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALS Center for years to come.

For more information on how to make a planned gift to the Carolinas ALS Research Fund or Carolinas ALS Endowment, contact Beth Braxton, director of fund development, at Elizabeth.Braxton@atriumhealth.org or (704) 355-4049.

CAROLINAS NEUROMUSCULAR/ ALS-MDA CENTER: A National Leader

As part of the Atrium Health Neurosciences Institute, the Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALS-MDA Center is one of the most comprehensive ALS and muscular dystrophy facilities in the country, and the Southeast’s major comprehensive facility for the study and treatment of degenerative neuromuscular diseases. The support of philanthropy ensures that the Center remains a national leader in ALS care:

1. The Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALSMDA Center helps to set national standards for ALS care by regularly participating in local, national, and international conferences and symposiums.

2. Atrium Health’s Neurosciences Institute is nationally recognized for its quality of care. It is the only program in the country to receive The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification in ALS.

3. In 2012, Benjamin R. Brooks, MD, director of the Carolinas Neuromuscular/ALS-MDA Center was honored with the prestigious International Forbes Norris Award for his exceptional care and compassion in the study and management of ALS.

4. The Center has played a key role in the development of two major FDAapproved therapies for ALS in recent years.

5. Atrium Health utilizes the latest technology to improve quality of life for patients living with ALS, including stateof-the-art voice technology, tools to track and manage nutrition, and robotic assistance. The Center made it possible for the first ALS patient in the country, a veteran from Huntersville, to receive a robotic arm.

This May, you can help make a difference in the lives of our patients by raising awareness and support for mental health resources provided by Atrium Health Behavioral Health in Charlotte and the surrounding region.

Atrium Health is committed to improving the mental health and wellbeing of our communities by developing innovative solutions that will improve access to care and early intervention, and better address social and economic barriers to care.

With community support, Atrium Health Behavioral Health can continue serving as the most comprehensive behavioral health care provider in the region.

To support Atrium Health Behavioral Health, visit: AtriumHealthFoundation.org/BehavioralHealth or scan the QR code shown below.

There is HELP and there is HOPE.