Momentum Magazine Winter 2024 Issue

Momentum

Winter 2024

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

Skyward Bound: GIVING HOPE CAMPAIGN TRANSFORMS HEALTH IN THE CAROLINAS

A Message from our Board Chair: As we embark upon the new year, it’s important to reflect on what was one of our most successful years to date! Today, thousands of patients who are treated across Atrium Health have hope for a brighter future, thanks to the generosity of so many in this community. And hope is often all it takes to inspire one person to overcome adversity or to bring people together to make a difference.

Together, we have helped open new buildings; taken care outside our walls, directly into communities; paved the way for new research opportunities; and opened doors for our future health care workforce. Thank you for joining with us and supporting our efforts to bring health, hope, and healing to all patients and families whose lives are touched by Atrium Health.

With gratitude,

Mandy Houser Board Chair, Atrium Health Foundation

Dear Friends, I’d like to underscore the significance of the overwhelming support we received for our Giving Hope campaign this past year. At Atrium Health Foundation, we have the honor of seeing, first-hand, how community support impacts all of our health.

Your gifts give hope…to the patient newly diagnosed with cancer, the researcher on the verge of a medical breakthrough, the parents of a chronically ill child, and the young adult who aspires to seek a career in the medical field.

Collectively, you have made meaningful gifts, guided by your passion for a particular aspect of health care. Because of you, we can innovate, excel, and shine!

As we look forward to a bright new year, I encourage you to share the good news in this issue of Momentum with friends, family, and colleagues.

Thank you for your gifts of hope. We wish you and your loved ones health and happiness in the New Year.

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.”

Join us on April 6 GET YOUR TICKETS TODAY

Levine

The

Dear friends of Levine Children’s, Don’t miss Charlotte’s most talked about, exclusive event of the year.

Your spot isn’t saved yet!

Purchase your tickets today at AtriumHealthFoundation.org/LCHGala PRESENTED BY:

C O N T E N T S WINTER 2024

O N T H E COV E R

2 Giving Hope campaign transforms health in the Carolinas

S P EC I A L F E AT U R E

2 Jim Hynes Prostate Cancer Center

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

ON THE SCENE

10 Cycle to the Sea

31 Torrey Hemby Center for Cancer

& Blood Disorders

12 Hyundai Hope on Wheels 16 Atrium Health mobile outreach

31 Atrium Health Pineville Golf Invitational

21 Save Your Skin Melanoma

31 Dr. Ed Stubbs Memorial Golf Invitational

Awareness Golf Classic

32 Pink Pint Night

of Excellence, Endowed Chair

22 Delta Dental Foundation

32 This is How We Roll

3 Brain Health: Society’s North Star

22 American Cancer Society

33 HEARTest Yard FitFest

4 Meaningful Medicine

23 Code Lavender

33 MusicLand Gift Foundation

5 Leon Levine Drive, Levine Cancer

28 Hopebuilders 5K

34 Wake Forest University

Proton Beam & Advanced Radiation Center

School of Medicine-Charlotte

30 Swim Across America

34 Giving Hope campaign

6 Ladley Family Supports

cabinet reception

Levine Children’s 7 Lebda Family Gift

Expands Virtual Care IN MEMORIAM

9 Sherry Pollex

I N N OVATO R S

19 Wayland H. Cato, Jr.

8 Family Medicine

5 A DOSE OF HOPE

14 KangarooKare 20 Kathleen Keane

U PWA R D

24 Gracie Sage:

CMN Champion GIFT PLANNING

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Atrium Health Foundation Board of Directors:

15 Qualified Charitable

Distributions

26 Love’s Travel Stops 26 Great Clips 26 Gabby & Summer Classics

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; Grace Nystrum; Greg Olsen; Manuel Rey; Mike Rucker; Michael Salvino; David Sheffer; Nicole Tepper

Momentum is a publication produced by Atrium Health Foundation. For more information, please call 704-355-4048. © Copyright 2024 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 @ 7800 Providence Road, Suite 208, Charlotte, NC 28226.

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COMMUNITY LEADERS SHARE VISION TO

Transform

Cancer Care T

wo community champions who have long given hope to Atrium Health patients through their generosity, vision, and leadership, will soon change the trajectory of prostate cancer care at Atrium Health Levine Cancer. Charlotte developer and renowned philanthropist

Howard C. “Smoky” Bissell, along with his wife, Margaret, recently honored longtime friend James

Transforming CARE

E.S. “Jim” Hynes with a transformative $5 million gift to establish the Jim Hynes Prostate Cancer Center of Excellence and the Jim Hynes Endowed Chair in Prostate Cancer at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute. The Jim Hynes Prostate Cancer Center of Excellence will advance access to, and quality of, prostate cancer treatment, detection, screenings, and related clinical research at Atrium Health Levine Cancer.

“Thanks to the Bissell family’s generosity, we can continue to provide excellent care, conduct cutting-edge research, and expand our team of nationally recognized physicians to create an unprecedented academic and research-focused program,” said Dr. Peter Clark, professor and chair of Urology and chair of Urologic Oncology. “Their gift is truly transformational for the entire Department of Urology and Urologic Oncology Care Team and will inspire others to step forward with philanthropic support to help us elevate the (L-R) Giving Hope Honorary Chair Jim Hynes with his long-time friend, Smoky Bissell.

department to world-class status in the years to come.”

A legacy of support — for all Synonymous with the history of Atrium Health, Jim Hynes has made a meaningful impact on the health system’s trajectory for more than 50 years, dating back to his volunteer service on the original advisory board of what was then called Charlotte Memorial Hospital. Since that time, Jim has also served in leadership roles on the Carolinas HealthCare System board, the Atrium Health Foundation board, and as a founding member of the Atrium Health Enterprise board. Along with his wife, Peggy, Jim is a proud member of the Evergreen Society, which recognizes those who have made planned gifts to Atrium Health.

As honorary chair of the Giving Hope campaign cabinet, Jim joined campaign kick-off chair Hugh McColl Jr. in 2021 to launch Atrium Health Foundation’s single largest comprehensive philanthropic campaign. True to his role and Atrium Health’s mission, Jim sought to change the trajectory of prostate cancer care at Atrium Health Levine Cancer and approached his dear friend, Smoky Bissell, with an invitation to join him in this vision. Along with his wife Margaret, Smoky responded by surprising Jim with the honorary naming of the center and endowed chair — a touching and extraordinary tribute to Jim’s legacy at Atrium Health, and within the greater Charlotte community.

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>>>

Brain Health:

O

SOCIETY’S NORTH STAR

n October 11, Tom Finke, co-chair of the Giving Hope campaign for Atrium Health, hosted a private gathering of health care and community leaders to discuss the importance of brain health in our society. The event, held in partnership with CH

Investment Partners, featured testimonials from guests and a panel discussion with retired Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly and Dr. Anthony Asher, president of Atrium Health Neurosciences Institute. Kuechly shared his experience with concussions and his desire to improve sports safety and develop a more comprehensive diagnostic tool to identify brain injuries. Dr. Asher emphasized society’s need to treat brain health as our “North Star” as we seek to better understand what makes our brains work, as well as prevent, detect, and

Transforming CARE

diagnose ailments of the brain before they become life-altering or life-ending events. He plans to conduct much of this research and development within The Pearl, Atrium Health’s innovation district that will house the new medical school. Guests also heard from Dr. “T” Moorman, president of Atrium Health Musculoskeletal Institute, who is in the early stages of developing a formal concussion center in our region, with Kuechly as a key advisor.

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1. Dr. Anthony Asher, president of Atrium Health Neurosciences Institute, leading a panel discussion with retired Carolina Panthers linebacker Luke Kuechly. 2. (L-R) Event host Tom Finke, Dr. Asher, and Luke Kuechly.

JIM HYNES PROSTATE CANCER CENTER OF EXCELLENCE FULFILLING A GREAT NEED: PROSTATE CANCER is the MOST COMMON UROLOGIC CANCER among men (all races)

The center offers patients unprecedented access to comprehensive prostate cancer care, including: • Cancer detection, screening, and diagnosis • Surgical and medical consultations

299,010

• Active surveillance

NEW DIAGNOSES of prostate cancer are projected for 2024*

• Hormone therapy

• Chemotherapy • Focal therapy (imaging modalities and energy sources) • Target therapies and immunotherapy

35,250 DEATHS attributed to prostate cancer are projected for 2024* *Estimated by the American Cancer Society (2024).

• Clinical trials • Supportive Oncology services such as nurse navigation, psycho-oncology, counseling, and more 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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Meaningful Medicine

an A+

FOR STUDENTS, FAMILIES

S

tudents across Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools are benefiting from a unique program made possible by Bank of America, in collaboration with Atrium Health and other community partners.

In 2022, Bank of America committed $10 million to the Giving Hope campaign at Atrium Health, establishing the Meaningful Medicine program. The intent of the program is to keep

Transforming CARE

children healthy and in school; improve access

“

to care; and develop the future health care

MEANINGFUL MEDICINE IS AN

workforce.

INVESTMENT IN THE HEALTH AND FUTURE OF OUR STUDENTS, AND THE PROGRAM IS REAPING RESULTS. I AM

In its first year, the program is already reducing health disparities in our community. A team effort with the YMCA, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

STILL IN AWE OVER THIS PROCESS ITSELF.

(CMS), Mecklenburg County, and Central

MEANINGFUL MEDICINE — IT’S A BIG

Piedmont Community College (CPCC), the

GAME CHANGER.

”

— EBONY, ISIAH’S MOM

program has seen some big wins. Children are accessing the care they need — like third-grader Isiah, who was in science class when he suffered a severe headache. Thanks to Meaningful

Medicine, he was one of 1,700 students treated by Atrium Health Levine Children’s through school based virtual care this year. As a result, he stayed in school, and his mom, Ebony, didn’t miss work.

Other notable achievements include: • Expanding school-based telehealth to offer behavioral health services at 13 new schools; • Returning 66% of patients to the community through virtual care provided at the YMCA and CPCC; • Meeting acute social needs by providing depression prevention training to over 200 9th grade students and staff at CMS; and • Enrolling over 100 students in workforce development programs, providing equity in education for those pursuing a desired health care career.

Ebony, mom of third-grader Isiah, credits Meaningful Medicine for its game-changing approach to caring for CMS students.

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Honoring

Leon Levine’s legacy ACROSS ATRIUM HEALTH’S MIDTOWN CAMPUS

L

ast December, Atrium Health Levine Cancer achieved a groundbreaking milestone with the delivery and start of installation of a state-of-the-art proton accelerator unit. Weighing in at 15 tons, this crucial piece of equipment will serve as the

powerhouse for proton beam therapy at the Atrium Health Levine Cancer Proton & Advanced Radiation Center, which was established with a $7.5 million gift made by

Transforming CARE

The Leon Levine Foundation. Sandra Levine (pictured alongside the accelerator unit) and her family members enjoyed an up-close view of the accelerator.

The same day, the Levine family, along with members of The Leon Levine Foundation board, gathered together in a private ceremony for the surprise unveiling of Leon Levine Drive. Previously named Medical Center Drive, Leon Levine Drive connects South Kings Drive to Atrium Health’s flagship facility, Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center. The renaming of the road honors the late Leon Levine, whose generosity impacted health care programs across the entire Southeast.

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The Ladley Family

Dreams Big

AND REACHES NEW HEIGHTS FOR LEVINE CHILDREN’S

A

Transforming CARE

trium Health board member and philanthropist Beverly Ladley and her husband, Mark, continue to reach for the stars and bring hope to patients battling pediatric brain tumors. Through their leadership as Dreamcatcher Society members and founders of the Baby J Ladley Pediatric Brain Tumor Fund, Beverly and Mark have been instrumental in raising more than $1.2 million to benefit Atrium Health Levine Children’s pediatric neuro-oncology program within the Torrey Hemby Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders. Their visionary generosity and inspiring commitment to families facing pediatric brain cancer honors the legacy of their late son, John Francis “J” Ladley III, who lost his battle with a malignant brain tumor at 15 months old.

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In recent years, gifts to the Baby J Ladley Pediatric Brain Tumor Fund have allowed Levine Children’s pediatric neuro-oncology program to reach new heights, enabling families who are coping with pediatric cancer to have unprecedented access to the most innovative brain tumor therapies and clinical trials available in the region.

In 2023, Beverly (pictured with husband Mark) joined Charlotte Ballet’s star dancer Juan Castellanos to give audiences a showstopping performance at the Dancing with the Stars of Charlotte Gala. With grace and perseverance, the Ladley family continues to put pediatric brain tumor research on “center stage” for Levine Children’s.

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Making the Grade: BUSINESS LEADER DOUG LEBDA TEAMS UP WITH ATRIUM HEALTH TO CREATE A HEALTHY FUTURE FOR STUDENTS IN RURAL NC

N

orth Carolina is home to many rural communities where children lack access to comprehensive medical care. In some counties, there are more than 2,000 children per pediatrician. To improve access to care, Atrium Health has embedded virtual clinics

in local public schools to provide medical care to students, onsite.

Transforming CARE

A generous contribution from local business leader Doug Lebda and his family will provide a significant boost to Atrium Health’s efforts to expand health care access and promote a healthy future for children in rural Rutherford County. The Lebda family’s $500,000 gift will help Atrium Health expand its School-Based Virtual Care program to begin serving children and families in 2024. With over 7,000 students in 19 schools, the program has the potential to complete over 1,300 virtual visits a year, helping children stay in school and achieve academic success, while also providing a high-quality care option for families across the county.

Widely recognized as a visionary leader and entrepreneur, Doug Lebda, founder and CEO of Lending Tree, also serves on the board of Atrium Health Foundation and the cabinet for Giving Hope — The Campaign for Atrium Health. True champions of access to care for all, Doug and his family are inspiring others to step forward and help support the expansion of virtual care in schools throughout the Atrium Health service area.

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1. Eight-year-old Piper, a student at Forest CityDunbar Elementary School, demonstrated a virtual care visit with Atrium Health’s School-Based Virtual Care Program. 2. Giving Hope campaign cabinet member and benefactor Doug Lebda joined students and school leaders during a special gift announcement on February 5.

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PHILANTHROPY HELPS SHAPE THE FUTURE OF FAMILY MEDICINE In our commitment to building a vibrant family medicine workforce, Atrium Health is utilizing the Family Medicine Research and Education Fund to provide exceptional educational resources to residents, fellows, faculty, and staff, including point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), a state-of-the-art diagnostic and imaging technology.

“The ability to utilize imaging modalities is increasingly crucial in terms of patient care and clinical training,” shared Dr. Anthony Martin, clinical assistant professor of Family Medicine at Wake Forest School of Medicine and director of point-of-care ultrasound for Atrium Health Family Medicine. POCUS allows Family Medicine physicians and residents to expedite care delivery and provide cost savings to patients by answering many clinical questions, and even making diagnoses, in real time. This can occur right at the patient’s bedside, or in the case of sports medicine, on the sidelines.

With continued support from our donors, training in POCUS is now being offered to Family Medicine residents across Atrium Health, which helps to position Atrium Health as one of the most competitive family medicine residencies in the country. Atrium Health Family Medicine fellow Leanna Brooks has Atrium Health Family Medicine/Sports Medicine Fellow Leanna Brooks performs a point-of-care ultrasound, a diagnostic tool using sound waves to create images of the inside of the body.

experienced first-hand how training in POCUS can improve diagnostic skills and patient care management.

“When cost or other factors are prohibiting a patient from scheduling a more costly diagnostic test, such as an MRI, using POCUS to make a diagnosis or rule out an underlying condition in real-time allows me to better manage patient care and referrals, and often gives patients peace of mind,” said Leanna. “As a Fellow with a passion for musculoskeletal ultrasound, I’m grateful to donors who support this program; future residents and fellows will benefit greatly from continued funding of this curriculum,” said Leanna.

To learn more and support the Family Medicine Research and Education Fund, visit AtriumHealthFoundation.org/FamilyMedicine or scan the QR code.

Gifts to the Family Medicine Research and Education Fund support research, patient care, and hands-on training in several important areas: • Point-of-care ultrasound • Atrium Health Hospital at Home • Medical-assisted treatment and addiction care • Maternal health inequities • Transgender care • Geriatric medicine

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M E M O R I A M

Sherry POLLEX M AY 1 0 , 1 9 7 9 – S E P T E M B E R 1 7, 2 0 2 3 Atrium Health Foundation celebrates the life and legacy of Sherry Pollex.

After regular visits to Levine Children’s Hospital, Sherry quickly became an advocate for patients with pediatric cancer. Years later, she was diagnosed with stage three ovarian cancer and underwent surgeries and 17 months of chemotherapy. Sherry’s personal relationship with cancer took her passion for cancer awareness, research, and treatment initiatives to new heights.

In 2016, SherryStrong was founded to empower women to know their bodies, recognize the symptoms of ovarian cancer, and learn how integrative and holistic practices may complement conventional medicine.

For more than a decade, Sherry battled ovarian cancer with tenacity and grace. Throughout that journey, she fought tirelessly to make lives better for both women and young children battling cancer.

Sherry’s optimism and positivity were guiding principles during her cancer journey. “The gift of cancer taught me to live in the moment, to always be present and never miss the birds flying outside my window on a bright blue-sky day, or the ladybug crawling on my arm bringing me protection and good luck,” said Sherry. “The gift of cancer also taught me to never take or granted my life or health…to not wait one single moment to make the memory…to CHOOSE JOY.” In partnership with the Martin Truex Jr. Foundation, SherryStrong initiatives have contributed over $500,000 to support integrative medicine, supportive oncology advancements, and ovarian cancer research at Levine Cancer Institute.

Sherry’s generosity and bravery left impressions on all who met her or heard her story. Her legacy is one of relentless joy and remarkable strength.

To celebrate Sherry’s life, contributions may be made in her memory to the SherryStrong Fund benefiting Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute at AtriumHealthFoundation.org/tribute.

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JACOB CONLEY

A

Rides On

sports enthusiast and journalist, Jacob Conley has spent over 20 years writing about local sports, including as a sports editor for his college newspaper. In 2010, he took his passion to the pavement in his first Cycle to the Sea — an epic 180-mile ride from Monroe, NC, to North Myrtle Beach, SC. Jacob has participated in the event ever since, handcycling to raise awareness and funds for the Adaptive Sports & Adventures Program (ASAP) at Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation.

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ASAP helps hundreds of adults and children across the Southeast participate in adaptive sports, providing competitive and recreational opportunities for individuals with physical disabilities. The community-based program relies on philanthropic support from generous donors and fundraising events like Cycle to the Sea. The event has provided numerous health benefits for Jacob, who was born with cerebral palsy. “Riding gives me motivation to stay active, and ASAP focuses on my abilities, rather than my disabilities,” he said. “Plus, I have met and become friends with many wonderful people over the years.”

To learn more and support ASAP, visit AtriumHealthFoundation.org/ASAP.

(1-2) Jacob Conley joined 11 cyclists for a 180-mile journey from Monroe, NC, to Myrtle Beach, SC, during the annual Cycle to the Sea.

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2023 Cycle to the Sea In October, Jacob and fellow adaptive cyclists completed their three-day journey across rolling hills and winding roads, raising nearly $50,000 for ASAP. “It was a great ride — one of the best during my past 14 years,” said Jacob. “We had a very tight-knit group, and we were able to overcome any challenges, including flat tires and riding in the rain, together.” This dedicated group of athletes continues to inspire others while giving back to a community that means so much to them.

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Hyundai Hope On Wheels

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ast September, during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Atrium Health Foundation announced a $100,000 grant from Hyundai Hope On Wheels to support integrative oncology services for patients treated at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Torrey Hemby Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders. The Hyundai Impact Grant was awarded to Jennifer Pope, MD, director of supportive medicine at Levine Children’s — and the only pediatric integrative oncologist in Greater Charlotte.

DRIVES SUPPORT FOR PEDIATRIC INTEGRATIVE ONCOLOGY

Under Dr. Pope’s leadership, Levine Children’s supportive medicine program addresses patients’ medical, psychological, and emotional needs through innovative services like Child Life, Arts for Life, and Music Therapy. Grant funding will expand program services to include acupuncture, therapeutic massage, and dance, helping to improve the patient experience for children diagnosed with pediatric cancers and blood disorders.

“I am grateful for Hyundai’s decades-long commitment to improving the lives of children diagnosed with cancer,” said Dr. Pope, whose work centers around supporting the comprehensive needs of patients during treatment and into survivorship. “Generous community supporters like Hyundai Hope On Wheels allow us to keep pace with the increasing complexity of modern cancer care.”

1. Jennifer Pope, MD, director of supportive medicine at Atrium Health Levine Children’s Cancer & Blood Disorders, was the recipient of a 2023 Hyundai Impact Grant. She was joined by Levine Children’s patient Mia for the signature handprint ceremony. 2. Mia’s mom and sisters joined her for the handprint ceremony.

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LOCAL FAMILY FINDS LIGHT IN DARKNESS The Scully family knows firsthand the importance of having a worldclass pediatric cancer program, close to home. That’s because two of their six children have battled the disease. In September 2018, daughter Quincy, now six years old, was diagnosed with neuroblastoma. Cancer took a toll on her little body, but she never stopped fighting and was declared cancer-free in late 2019.

Less than two years later, cancer struck the Scully family again when their daughter Mia, now ten years old, was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. Early in her treatment, Mia and her family moved across the country to Charlotte, NC, where she was transferred to Atrium Health Levine Children’s.

Levine Children’s Cancer & Blood Disorders Program Atrium Health Levine Children’s Cancer & Blood Disorders Program is a member of many research consortiums worldwide. With philanthropic support, the program offers Phase I and Phase II clinical trials that give children from across the Carolinas and beyond early access to some of the most innovative therapies available in the world. The hospital’s state-ofthe-art pediatric oncology research lab — the first of its kind in the region — is a global resource for pediatric cancer research.

• In 2023, there were over 200 projected patient enrollments in clinical trials through the Atrium Health Levine Children’s Cancer & Blood Disorders Program.

“From very early on, the people at Levine Children’s have made Mia feel right at home,” shared her parents, Courtney and Jeremiah

• Currently, there are nearly 300 pediatric patients in active treatment within the program who are participating in research studies, as well as nearly 450 who are in follow-up care.

Scully. “We especially appreciate and value the team approach to Mia’s care — oncology, integrative medicine, and Child Life. Dealing with childhood cancer twice, we don’t take that team approach for granted.”

While Mia is still in active treatment, she embraces each day with a smile. And her mighty family is prepared to tackle any obstacles that come their way.

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FORMER LEVINE CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL PATIENTS HOP IN TO SUPPORT NICU FAMILIES

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win sisters Shaili and Sarina enjoy playing tennis, dancing, reading, and spending time with their family and friends. Both healthy and active today, the 11-year-old girls once faced many challenges as premature infants, born at 28 weeks. While Shaili and Sarina do not remember their time in the

neonatal intensive care unit at Atrium Health Levine Children’s, it is something their parents will never forget.

“We were terrified first-time parents, and the entire care team was amazing in helping us understand what was going on with the girls’ progress, what to expect as they developed and grew, and how to navigate this unexpected new world we were in,” said Shaili and Sarina’s mother, Mona. “They celebrated every milestone achieved with us, helped to make the girls’ first Christmas in the NICU so special, and were so patient and helped to build up our confidence so that we would all be okay taking our little miracles home.”

To help show their appreciation and give back to other families in the NICU, the sisters started KangarooKare, an online store featuring custom designed resin jewelry, bookmarks, and accessories, with proceeds benefiting Sarina and Shaili in 2012

Levine Children’s NICU. They were recently recognized as

>

Atrium Health Young Ambassadors for their generous fundraising efforts.

NICU graduates Shaili and Sarina now sell handmade resin items through their shop, KangarooKare, to give back to other NICU families at Levine Children’s. The name is inspired by a care technique, known as “kangaroo care,” which promotes bonding and nurturing between infants and their parents.

Irina Shat

To view their shop, visit:

>

m

rstock.co

s / Shutte

KangarooKare.etsy.com

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Build a lasting legacy

of health, hope, and healing — for all.

Atrium Health Foundation provides several giving strategies that allow you to support Atrium Health’s mission while taking advantage of numerous tax and financial benefits. A qualified charitable distribution (QCD), also known as IRA Charitable Rollover, is a nontaxable distribution made directly by the trustee of your IRA to Atrium Health Foundation. While QCDs do not qualify for a charitable deduction, they do count towards your required minimum distribution (RMD).

A QCD may be nontaxable under certain conditions. Learn more: AtriumHealthFoundation.org/QCD. H OW TO I N I T I AT E A QUA L I FI ED C HA R I TA B L E D I S T R I B U T I O N : • Contact your IRA plan administrator to make a gift from your IRA account to Atrium Health Foundation.

• Atrium Health Foundation can provide a sample letter to submit to your IRA administrator.

• Designate Atrium Health Foundation (Fed. Tax ID number 56-6060481) as a qualified charity recipient for your QCD. • After your request is submitted, your IRA administrator will issue a mailed check to the Foundation.

Be sure that your name is included with the transfer information.

For additional instructions on supporting Atrium Health Foundation through a QCD, contact Beth Braxton: Elizabeth.Braxton@atriumhealth.org or (704) 355-4049.

May 19 JOIN US FOR THE 12TH ANNUAL

Levine JCC Kids Triathlon!

The Sandra and Leon Levine Jewish Community Center will host its 12th 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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ON THE ROAD:

Atrium Health Mobile Outreach A

trium Health continues to expand care beyond its walls through state-of-the-art mobile medicine units. The innovative care model is designed to meet patients where they are, targeting communities whose residents experience economic and social challenges that make it difficult to receive care through traditional methods.

By partnering with nonprofits, churches, and other community organizations, Atrium Health providers can better understand the specific care needs within each population and deliver culturally competent care in a trusted setting.

Bringing Primary Care and Women’s Care to Communities in Need Launched in 2022, Atrium Health Mobile Medicine provides comprehensive primary care and women’s care services across nine North Carolina counties. The program currently includes three “Care Everywhere” primary care units that can treat minor injuries to longterm diseases, and one “Drive to Thrive” women’s care unit that provides access to birth control, prenatal and postpartum care, ultrasounds, mammogram referrals, cervical cancer screenings, and more.

“At Atrium Health, we believe that health care is a fundamental right to which everyone should have access, regardless of their background, income, or where they live,” said Kinneil Coltman, executive vice president, chief community and social impact officer of Advocate Health, of which Atrium Health is a part.

“The Mobile Medicine program is a commitment to our patients, ensuring they have easier access to get the care they need and deserve.”

Atrium Health Mobile Medicine is made possible by transformational support from Truist (via the Truist Charitable Fund), The Tepper Foundations, Barbara and Todd Kopczynski, MD, and the C.D. Spangler Foundation, among other benefactors.

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Providing Cancer Screenings for High-Risk Patients Atrium Health Levine Cancer Disparities & Outreach provides community cancer screenings in at-risk communities across the Carolinas — from lung cancer screenings in the state-of-the-art mobile lung buses equipped with CT scanners, to breast cancer screenings conducted in a mobile mammography unit, in partnership with Charlotte Radiology. Patients also have access to additional screenings for colorectal, skin, and prostate cancer.

Continued on pg. 18

2023 — A YEAR IN REVIEW

Cancer Care in Motion: navigated total value of screenings through treatment diagnosed $1.27M benefit to community 3,266 cancer 726 patients 24 cancers

ATRIUM HEALTH MOBILE MEDICINE

Fueling Access to Care:

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mobile units

3,424 patient visits in 2023*

23+

counties served

Atrium Health Care Everywhere North and west areas established by Truist Charitable Fund South area established by The Tepper Foundations

Atrium Health Women’s Care Drive to Thrive established by Barbara and Todd Kopczynski, MD Women’s Simulation Unit (coming soon) established by C.D. Spangler Foundation

Project PINK & Project PINK Plus Mammogram screenings provided in partnership with Charlotte Radiology

Lung B.A.S.E.S. 4 Life Lung CT screening units established by The Leon Levine Foundation and Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation *full-year projection

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MOBILE OUTREACH Continued from pg. 17

On the Road to Health Launched in late 2022 with a $1.2 million gift from The Tepper Foundation, with local operational support from The David and Nicole Tepper Foundation, Atrium Health Care Everywhere’s mobile primary care south unit is meeting a critical need for community members lacking an established primary care provider. The unit is broad in geographic scope, serving adult and pediatric patients in Mecklenburg, Union, and Anson counties. Through a recent partnership with Roof Above, the unit is expanding care to even more individuals and families across the community. Importantly, more than half of all patients currently served by Atrium Health Care Everywhere represent historically underserved communities with financial barriers to care.

“Our organizations share the same passion for empowering people in high-risk communities to improve and achieve their best health.”

— DAVID TEPPER OWNER CAROLINA PANTHERS AND CHARLOTTE FC

Rosalind Watson, certified medical assistant, and Amy LeBlanc, family nurse practitioner.

Hope on Wheels for Women In its first year of operation, Atrium Health Drive to Thrive has successfully improved access to OB-GYN care for hundreds of women across Mecklenburg County. Established with the vision and generous support of retired OB-GYN Todd Kopczynski, MD, and his wife, Barbara, the program utilizes one of the first mobile units in the nation dedicated solely to women’s health care, primarily serving patients from underserved communities.

Since the launch of Drive to Thrive, Dr. Kopczynski has gone above and beyond for patients by serving as a volunteer physician on the mobile unit. “[This program] changes lives in so many of the people that we reach,” said Dr. Kopczynski. “There are people who either can’t afford or easily obtain care, and this is a way to bring health care to their neighborhoods, making it accessible and affordable.”

Additional support from the C.D. Spangler

(L-R) Francis Santos, registered medical assistant, Ruby Pittman, ambulatory social worker, and Todd Kopczynski, MD, benefactor and volunteer physician.

Foundation has enabled the program to serving more women across the Greater

To learn more about supporting Drive to Thrive, contact:

Charlotte community. To view Drive to

Beth Braxton

Thrive’s partner locations and upcoming

Director, Development

schedule, scan the QR code.

Elizabeth.Braxton@atriumhealth.org

expand operation to five days per week,

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Wayland H. CATO, JR. MARCH 23, 1923 - NOVEMBER 4, 2023 The Atrium Health family celebrates the life and legacy of Wayland H. Cato, Jr., a renowned business leader and selfless philanthropist who was dedicated to making a difference in others’ lives.

Wayland Cato, Jr. was the former president and CEO of CATO Corporation — an American retailer of women’s fashions and accessories headquartered in Charlotte. After serving in the U.S. Navy at the end of World War II, he founded the company with his father and brother. The company, which opened its first two stores in South Carolina in 1946, grew to over 1,300 stores nationwide. Throughout his lifetime, Mr. Cato shared his success with many institutions and organizations across the Carolinas.

Mr. Cato was an impassioned believer in the power of education. Through the Wayland Henry Cato Jr. Foundation, he provided students in financial need access to life-changing education through endowed scholarships. “I am proud to be able to assist deserving individuals in achieving their educational goals. It gives me pleasure to know that these endowed scholarship funds will continue to aid people who want to help themselves,” Wayland Jr. once said. The foundation established 55 endowed funds in 45 different organizations, providing financial assistance to more than 2,500 students.

A devoted friend to Atrium Health, Mr. Cato provided scholarship assistance to students at Carolinas College of Health Sciences, helping to advance training for allied health professionals across the greater Charlotte area. Through his transformational giving to the Wayland H. Cato Jr. Nursing and Allied Health Endowed Scholarship Fund, he impacted the lives of so many in the health care community. Through his legacy we will continue to develop the next generation of health care innovators and leaders.

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Kathleen’s Story of Hope

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athleen Keane moves energetically through her transitional kindergarten classroom at Carmel Presbyterian Weekday School. She greets the children with a smile, guiding them to the Legos, morning work, or the science table—always encouraging learning through play and curiosity.

In August of 2022, Kathleen’s life changed in an instant. No stranger to melanoma, which she had already battled four times, Kathleen was faced with her most grave diagnosis yet: stage-3B metastatic melanoma. “I grew up in California, but even back then, my mother was vigilant about teaching me to practice sun safety; but still, I have struggled with melanoma,” she shared.

When Kathleen sought treatment at Levine Cancer Institute, she met Dr. Asim Amin, who encouraged her to enroll in a blind clinical trial that combined immunotherapy with a new drug regimen. Clinical trials like these are made possible through philanthropic support from donors and community events like the Save Your Skin Melanoma Awareness Golf Classic. One of just 1,000 patients who qualified for the trial, Kathleen enrolled. She was reassured to know her Levine Cancer care team would monitor her health for 10 years following the initial clinical trial.

The availability of clinical trials for patients like Kathleen is critical, as some traditional cancer therapies have proven ineffective at slowing progression of the disease. “I’m hopeful that participating in this trial is helping others, and I am so grateful I’m benefiting from the efforts of Save Your Skin. Events like this raise awareness that anyone is at risk of getting melanoma,” said Kathleen.

Kathleen also appreciates the supportive therapies she received at Levine Cancer Institute, which are made possible through philanthropy. Integrative medicine — such as oncology massage, acupuncture, and nurse navigation — helped to ease Kathleen’s discomfort and make her cancer treatment bearable.

“My care team has been so supportive, and knowing there is a community raising funds to improve cancer treatment makes me grateful and gives me hope,” said Kathleen.

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A MILLION REASONS TO SAVE THE SKIN YOU’RE IN Last November, a crisp, fall day greeted supporters of the 16th Annual Save Your Skin Melanoma Awareness Golf Classic, benefiting Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute. Co-presented by the Gee Family Foundation and the Kreshon Family of Charlotte, Save Your Skin reached a new milestone in 2023 – raising over $1 million since inception to support immunotherapy research, awareness, and prevention programs at Levine Cancer Institute.

While Save Your Skin underscores the importance of sun safety, it is also a tribute to Jerri Kreshon, who lost her battle with melanoma in 2005. Proceeds from the annual golf outing help to ensure patients of Levine Cancer Institute have access to Phase I and II clinical trials and leading therapies to combat melanoma, a rare but deadly form of skin cancer.

With the support of Save Your Skin, and generous community donors, Levine Cancer Institute serves at the forefront of immunotherapy research, providing patients with access to the highest level of cancer care available in the Charlotte Metro area.

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1. Presenting Sponsors, The Kreshon Family, LLC and The Gee Family Foundation, joined physician leaders from Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute for a special check presentation.

2. As founders of Save Your Skin, the Kreshon family remains closely connected to the tournament.

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Get the Facts

Save Your Skin: • Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that develops in melanocytes, the skin cells that make the pigment responsible for skin and hair color.

• While melanoma only accounts for 2% of skin cancer cases, this rare form of skin cancer accounts for the majority of skin cancer deaths, annually.

• Immunotherapy uses the body’s own immune system to recognize and destroy cancer cells.

• Atrium Health Levine Cancer provides a multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach to care, combining oncology and immunotherapies with supportive modalities to improve patients’ overall health and wellbeing during melanoma treatment.

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DELTA DENTAL FOUNDATION GRANT TO ENHANCE PATIENT SAFETY Atrium Health Dental Clinic, a facility of Atrium Health Carolinas Medical Center, provides an essential safety net for many patients who can least afford dental care. With support from philanthropic partners like Delta Dental Foundation, the clinic provides patients — including those with medical complexities like cancer or cardiac issues — with comprehensive dental care.

A recent grant awarded by Delta Dental Foundation will provide funding for new, state-of-the-art surgical handpieces, improving the clinic’s capacity to safely and efficiently operate on patients. Providing this state-of-the-art equipment is especially critical as current research indicates the importance of oral health for combating many chronic diseases. “We truly appreciate the generosity of Delta Dental Foundation, which enables our team to provide both routine and specialized care for patients and families,” said Jenene Noll, research manager of the Oral Medicine Research Laboratory at Carolinas Medical Center.

AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AND ATRIUM HEALTH LEVINE CANCER: BREAKING DOWN BARRIERS TO CARE A recent grant of $65,000 awarded by the American Cancer Society will significantly advance Atrium Health Levine Cancer's and Atrium Health Levine Children's efforts to break down barriers to cancer care in the greater Charlotte area. Locally, the American Cancer Society’s support will address transportation, cancer screening, and lodging needs of patients in the Charlotte Metro region.

“Lack of transportation is a major barrier to many of our patients, so we are grateful to the American Cancer Society for this funding that is crucial to ensuring patients have access to our facilities for their cancer treatments,” said Dr. Ruben A. Mesa, president of Atrium Health Levine Cancer and vice dean for cancer programs at Wake Forest University School of Medicine.

Atrium Health will use the grant to support economically disadvantaged patients, providing lodging assistance, gas cards, transportation vouchers, and ride-share Photo credit: Cancer.org (2024)

services for those lacking resources to travel

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for care. In addition, grant funding will help improve outreach to patients in need of colorectal cancer screenings and related specialty care.

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THE DUKE ENDOWMENT SUPPORTS CULTURE OF COMPASSION In moments of crisis, Atrium Health teammates stand ready to serve the needs of patients rapidly, and with compassion. With a $675,000 grant from The Duke Endowment, Atrium Health teammates can now benefit from a code of their own: Code Lavender. Designed to provide 24/7 crisis intervention and compassionate responses for Atrium Health teammates in distress, Code Lavender is called when someone has been negatively impacted by a personal or professional crisis.

Atrium Health is also utilizing the program to proactively build a culture of compassion within the workplace — a critical component to achieving its “for all” mission. Support from The Duke Endowment will allow Atrium Health to promote and integrate Code Lavender, systemwide, by funding three full-time Integrative Compassion Catalysts (ICCs) trained to help connect teammates with resources during times of crisis.

Greg Hathaway, executive director of pastoral services education and spiritual care, has seen firsthand the benefits of Code Lavender in alleviating crisis situations and the negative impact of empathy fatigue, burnout, and moral injury. “I don’t know of any other program in the country like this, where you have trained chaplains who are 100% fully dedicated to the support of teammates and their well-being,” said Greg. “Without the vision and support of The Duke Endowment, teammates would not be able to receive the personalized, compassionate one-to-one support from our Integrative Compassion Catalysts (ICCs) when they need it most.”

Code Lavender: Caring for our Caregivers • Integrative Compassion Catalysts (ICCs) are trained to provide one-toone crisis intervention support, both in ambulatory and non-ambulatory health care settings.

• Teammates have access to a 24/7 “HOPEline” to receive immediate support and crisis intervention (980-212-HOPE).

• Recent examples of ICCs in action include facilitating a memorial service for a teammate; providing specialized support for teammates impacted by workplace violence; and partnering with the Employee Assistance Program to lead a supportive debriefing program for skilled nursing facility teammates.

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UPWARD

Meet 11-year-old Gracie, 2024 Children’s Miracle Network Champion.

Gracie’  story of courage The making of a champion for children

E

leven-year-old Gracie Sage loves fiercely, lives fully, and gives generously. Named the Charlotte market’s 2024 Children’s Miracle Network Champion, Gracie’s devotion to Atrium Health Levine Children’s Hospital runs deep. When she was two weeks old, Gracie spent time in the neonatal intensive care unit to treat sleep apnea, and the level of care she received stuck with her parents. In 2022, when a bump on Gracie’s abdomen led to a staggering diagnosis — a soft tissue sarcoma known as CIC-DUX4 sarcoma (CDS) — her parents immediately turned to Levine Children’s for her care.

Gracie’s cancer specialist Dr. Javier Oesterheld explained that CDS is a subcategory of small round cell sarcoma based on the translocation of genes. “This genetic component, paired with the fact that it was on Gracie’s skin, makes it incredibly uncommon,” explained Dr. Oesterheld, vice chair of clinical affairs and division chief of cancer and blood disorders at Levine Children’s.

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Gracie’s care team acted quickly, surgically removing the margins of her tumor and placing a port for chemotherapy.

She then underwent 12 chemotherapy infusions and 21 IV infusions. Though the road ahead was daunting, Gracie’s care team became the family’s biggest ally.

“The nurses, doctors and Child Life Specialists at Levine Children’s played an integral part in helping our family get through the most difficult thing we’ve ever had to face,” shared Jenny.

In addition to connecting Gracie’s parents with resources, the Child Life team supported siblings Jackson and Izzy, and even educated Gracie’s classmates about her treatment and ways they could support her. Gracie has also benefited from Levine Children’s pediatric cancer survivorship program, which works to mitigate any longterm effects of treatment.

Gracie became so tightly knit with her care team that she cried when she rang “the bell” that signified the end of her

With her characteristic smile and big heart, Gracie gave her all to fight an ultra-rare form of sarcoma.

active cancer treatment. The room was filled with those who grew to adore Gracie, celebrating with her as the sound of the bell echoed down the halls.

Gracie leads with her heart Gracie’s parents describe her as loving and empathetic, but there aren’t enough words to explain the magnitude of her big-hearted nature. Inspired by her cancer journey, Gracie and her school have organized stuffed animal drives and “Skip It” Saturdays, asking friends and neighbors to skip a weekend outing and direct their money to Levine Children’s, raising more than $35,000 to support the hospital’s pediatric cancer research program. At the start of the New Year, Gracie embarked upon her greatest journey yet — serving as Levine Children’s Hospital’s 2024 Children’s Miracle Network Champion. “I’m a champion because I’m determined, and when things get hard, I don’t back down,” shared Gracie in anticipation of her new role.

Gracie’s mom hopes she can use her experience as a platform to continue to help other people. “The work Levine Children’s is doing to further research in this space gives me hope; the investment from the community is incredible; and the [teams] working to further this body of research are truly difference-makers,” said Jenny.

Gracie herself might be one of those researchers one day.

Gracie celebrated with her oncologist, Dr. Javier Oesterheld, when Levine Children’s Hospital was named a “Best Children’s Hospital” for Pediatric Cancer by U.S. News & World Report in 2023.

She says one of her biggest goals for her future is to cure cancer so other kids don’t have to go through what she experienced.

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Love’s Travel Stops Hit the Gas for Levine Children’s Since being honored as one of CMN’s top U.S. corporate partners in 2022, Love’s Travel Stops haven’t slowed down their support of young patients in our community, raising over $48,000 during last year’s balloon campaign to support Levine Children’s Hospital. Sponsored by Love's Travel Stops, Daytona 500 champion Michael McDowell has partnered with the company to support patients of Levine Children's Hospital, including 9-year-old Brantley (pictured), who recently enjoyed a special outing at Front Row Motorsports.

Great Clips: A Cut Above the Rest Since 2004, Great Clips nationwide, including 74 locations across the Greater Charlotte area, have collectively raised over $9.8 million for Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Locally, Great Clips raised $43,000 through its point of sale campaign last fall.

Gabby & Summer Classics: Designing to Make a Difference Premier outdoor furniture manufacturer Gabby & Summer Classics began its national partnership with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals in 2020. Last October, the luxury retailer’s Midtown Charlotte showroom joined the cause, raising over $22,000 during its annual fundraising campaign.

JOIN OUR CMN PARTNERS IN SUPPORTING ATRIUM HEALTH LEVINE CHILDREN’S: THIS SPRING

YEAR-ROUND Speedway GameStop Panda Express Love’s Travel Stops

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RE/MAX

Dairy Queen Dip it for Kids (March 19) ACE Hardware (month of April) Ride of a Life Time (April 27) JOANN (through October 31)

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All Steps Lead to

HOPE AT THE HOPEBUILDERS 5K

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n October 14, 2023, hundreds of community members laced up their running shoes and participated in the 28th Annual Hopebuilders 5K benefiting Atrium Health Levine Children’s. For the second

consecutive year, the fundraiser was hosted in partnership with the Charlotte Knights at Truist Field in Uptown Charlotte. Thanks to the tremendous support of corporate sponsors, participants, and donors, Hopebuilders has raised over $3 million since the event’s inception nearly three decades ago. “

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1. Levine Children’s patient champion Aayla (front row) was joined by her family and many other patient families for the Hopebuilders 5K. 2. A longtime sponsor of the Hopebuilders 5K, Barings directed its support to renovating Levine Children’s Hospital’s third floor diagnostic suite.

Because of community support, Levine Children’s Hospital has quickly grown into a nationally renowned facility,” said Megan Cody, administrative director of Atrium Health Levine Children’s. “Because of you, Levine Children’s is a place that is so special, it continues to attract the very best talent from across the country to provide the very best care for our children. And that’s why we’re here today: To continue to uphold this amazing place, which is truly a jewel in the crown of the Queen City.”

Many Levine Children’s department-led teams came out to show their support, including the KIDney Krusaders, Rheumatology Rockstars, and Pulmonary Superheroes, which was recognized as the top community fundraising team. Barings was named the top corporate fundraising team, while Dr. Ashley Chadha secured the top individual fundraiser award.

“So many families came together to rally around the needs of Levine Children’s Hospital,” said Kellie McGregor, assistant vice president of development at Atrium Health Foundation. “Here we are in 2023 and the hospital is doing phenomenal things. We’ve got great clinical care, and great community support, and this is a way for us to get together and give back to everyone who made this hospital a reality.”

Almost 30 years since its inception, the Hopebuilders 5K continues to inspire tremendous generosity from the Charlotte community and beyond.

Aayla

AAYLA GIVES BACK, INSPIRES HOPE At only seven weeks old, Aayla was diagnosed with eye cancer. After an initial week of treatment out of state, she was able to come home where she could continue treatment at Atrium Health Levine Children’s. From the very first visit, Aayla’s mother, Kellie, recalls how comfortable the care team made her feel. “Dr. Jacobsen held Aayla like a baby and not like a patient,” she said. “I will never forget that feeling—normalcy after a week of ‘not so normal’ as a new parent.”

Aayla’s treatment included six months of chemotherapy, along with eye exams and weekly blood work. Fast forward to today: she’s healthy and thriving. She loves cheerleading, school, and participating in Levine Children’s survivorship program. “Her last survivorship visit was in September during Childhood Cancer Awareness month, and she felt so loved,” said Kellie. “We love Dr. Pope and her entire team.”

When asked why she chose to participate in the Hopebuilders 5K, Aayla shared, “So that kids just like me can receive treatment for their serious illness or cancer diagnosis. I like to donate toys and activities so they can feel as calm as they can when they receive chemotherapy or any other type of treatment, and I think it’s important they know that they are loved.”

With Special Thanks to our Sponsors: Rain didn’t stop the party for members of Team KIDney Krusaders, who together raised over $2,200.

Barings DeMayo Law Offices Office Environments

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Samet Corporation HITS 96.1 WCNC

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SWIM ACROSS AMERICA MAKES WAVES TO SUPPORT CANCER RESEARCH

Under the leadership of Dr. Grunwald, chief of the Leukemia Division and director of the Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Program at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute, Atrium Health offers early access to some of the most groundbreaking treatments for cancer and blood disorders available in the greater Charlotte area.

Dr. Michael Grunwald and Dr. Lawrence Druhan (pictured far left) joined Swim Across America participants at the conclusion of the Charlotte Open Water Swim.

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RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS

On October 8, led by Drs. Michael Grunwald and Lawrence Druhan, team “Levine Cancer Institute” suited up for Swim Across America’s seventh annual Charlotte Open Water Swim at Camp Thunderbird. Under the banner “making waves to fight cancer” Swim Across America’s open water swim locally raises funds to support cancer research at Atrium Health Levine Children’s and Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute. Teammates braved the chilly waters and joined 250 fellow swimmers to participate in half-mile, one-mile, and two-miles heats, raising $270,000 to benefit cancer research at Atrium Health and bringing Swim Across America’s lifetime support to more than $1.02 million.

Thanks to Swim Across America’s unwavering support…

• With $55,000, Dr. Brittany Ragon led a recent research study examining health outcomes of over 400 patients with acute myeloid leukemia who had been treated at Atrium Health Levine Cancer. Dr. Ragon presented results of the study at the American Society of Hematology annual meeting.

• $80,000 is supporting a two-year study conducted by Levine Cancer Institute, which continues to lay the groundwork for an individualized approach to dosing Tyrosine Kinase Inhibitor (TKI) in patients with certain types of leukemia. The study ultimately aims to improve compliance and decrease toxicities related to treatment using TKIs.

• $65,000 has funded a series of multi-year studies to help researchers determine factors that might predispose individuals to the development of blood cancer.

In addition, researchers discovered a candidate class of drugs useful for treating a hereditary disorder that carries a significant risk for the development of acute myeloid leukemia.

• $360,000 is supporting research that seeks to improve the psychological wellbeing of patients, develop novel and effective treatments such as new methods in stem cell transplantation, reduce disparities in cancer care, and find new ways to prevent cancer in vulnerable populations.

On the SCENE 1. Torrey Hemby Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders Atrium Health Levine Children’s recently celebrated the grand opening of its reimagined outpatient center that treats pediatric cancer and blood disorders. With leading support from the Alex Hemby Foundation, the Torrey Hemby Center for Cancer & Blood Disorders is a dream turned reality, thanks to many generous community partners. Atrium Health Foundation board member Bevie Hemby (right) and sister, Alexa Amick (left), were among the guests who attended the center’s dedication ceremony.

2. Giving back on the greens In September, golfers hit the greens at Carolina Lakes Golf Club to support patients of Atrium Health Pineville and Atrium Health University. The Atrium Health Pineville Golf Invitational raised over $83,000 to help Atrium Health Pineville fulfill its mission of delivering advanced, personalized care to the Greater Charlotte region. September 18 also marked the 30th Annual Dr. Ed Stubbs Memorial Golf Invitational, honoring the late obstetrician/gynecologist who practiced medicine at Atrium Health University for nearly a decade. Held at Northstone Country Club, the event raised over $34,000 for Atrium Health University City. (L-R): Alex Escoto, director of Nursing, Atrium Health Stanly; Nick Petrini, manager of Patient Access, Atrium Health Stanly; event supporter Paul Schram; and Travis O’Connor, director of Environmental Services, Atrium Health Stanly.

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On the SCENE 3. Annual Pink Pint Night supports breast cancer screenings In September, supporters of the 12th Annual Pink Pint Night gathered at NoDa Brewing to raise a glass for Project PINK — the region’s only comprehensive mobile breast cancer screening program. Administered by Charlotte Radiology and Atrium Health Levine Cancer, Project PINK provides life-saving mammograms, referrals, and diagnostic follow-up care to uninsured women in the Charlotte area. Dr. Julie Fisher, co-director of the Sandra Levine Young Women’s Breast Cancer Program at Atrium Health Levine Cancer, thanked guests for their support of the event, which raised over $60,000.

4. Supporters “on a roll” for survivors of spinal cord injuries The 4th Annual This is How We Roll community event brought together more than 200 advocates of spinal cord injury awareness to support Atrium Health Carolinas Rehabilitation. A one-mile walk-and-roll fundraising event, This is How We Roll raised over $20,000 to benefit the Spinal Cord Injury Fund and help provide essential resources, including Wheelchair Smart Drive devices, technology for in-home use, adaptive clothing, community outings, and peer mentoring. Participant and former patient Adam Gorlitsky (pictured right) helped lead the pack in This is How We Roll.

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5. 4th Annual HEARTest Yard FitFest Supporters of Receptions for Research: The Greg Olsen Foundation converged on the practice field of the Atrium Health Dome for the annual HEARTest Yard FitFest in October. The daylong event combined fitness, fun, and health-focused vendors, including opportunities for people of all ages to break a sweat for a great cause (pictured: Talbot Olsen, daughter of Greg and Kara Olsen). Event proceeds provide assistance to patients and families facing congenital heart disease and benefit Atrium Health Levine Children’s HEARTest Yard Congenital Heart Center.

6. MusicLand Gift Foundation hits a high note for Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute In October, multi-award-winning songwriter and recording artist Anne Steele wowed the audience during a fundraising concert held at Middle C Jazz. Organized by MusicLand Gift Foundation, the event supported the Integrative Oncology program at Atrium Health Levine Cancer Institute. MusicLand Gift Foundation founder Kenny Kahn (center) and Anne Steele (second from left) were joined by members of Atrium Health Levine Cancer’s Department of Supportive Oncology team (also pictured), including Susan Yaguda, Dr. Declan Walsh, and Beth York.

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On the SCENE 7. Steel in the sky: Wake Forest University School of Medicine-Charlotte reaches new heights Below left: In December, local businessman and philanthropist Howard Levine visited the site of the Howard R. Levine Center for Education, future headquarters of Wake Forest University School of Medicine-Charlotte. Below right: Giving Hope campaign cabinet members and Atrium Health leaders took their tour of the future School of Medicine to new heights.

8. Giving Hope cabinet celebrates campaign milestones Giving Hope campaign cabinet members gathered with Atrium Health Foundation at The Terrace at Cedar Hill in November to celebrate recent milestones of the campaign. During the reception, newly appointed cabinet co-chairs, Tom Finke and Pat Rodgers, shared inspiring words of gratitude and encouragement in anticipation of the new year.

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ADVOCATE HEALTH

– FROM THE HEART.

Every fall, Advocate Health teammates join in a long-standing tradition of giving to organizations and programs that have made an indelible impact in their communities. In 2023, teammates gave generously, pledging $1.17 million to support Atrium Health Foundation. Their gifts will help Atrium Health expand access to care, address social disparities, enhance the patient experience, enable innovation, provide learning opportunities for health care providers, and so much more.

Thank you, Teammates!

NONPROFIT ORG US POSTAGE PAID CHARLOTTE, NC PERMIT # 3156

208 East Boulevard, Charlotte, NC 28203 AtriumHealthFoundation.org

D U R I N G T H E M O N T H O F M AY

Help our Nursing Stars

SHINE BRIGHT! Every day, more than 20,000 Atrium Health nurses demonstrate their commitment to our patients and our mission to “improve health, elevate hope, and advance healing – for all.” Give to the Atrium Health Nursing Fund and honor an outstanding nurse with a special star-shaped pin.

Honor and support an Atrium Health nurse or nursing team with your donation: