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ChristianaCare Golf Outing Monday, May 4th, 2026, at DuPont Country Club
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Stay Connected! @ChristianaCare 302-327-3305 philanthropy@christianacare.org
ChristianaCare
The power of philanthropy is truly extraordinary. It can create life-changing opportunities, bring hope to those in need, and strengthen the very fabric of our communities. In healthcare, your generosity enables us to expand our reach, enhance our services, and deliver compassionate care to those who need it most.
Thanks to the kindness of donors like you, countless lives have been transformed—patients who once faced overwhelming challenges now find renewed health and hope. We invite you to read their inspiring stories and see firsthand how your support makes a difference. Together, we can continue to build a healthier, more vibrant community, where everyone has the chance to thrive.
On behalf of ChristianaCare, thank you for your continued commitment and compassion.
With gratitude,
Dia Williams Adams, MPA, CPA Vice President of Philanthropy
More than a decade later, the spirited legacy of John Joseph Rowan (August 30, 1946 – April 14, 2013) endures. A memorial plaque, permanently displayed in a seating area of what was once Christiana Hospital’s 6B Hematology Unit, serves as a lasting tribute from his wife and best friend, Heidelore Rowan. It reminds all of John’s contagious zest for life and his love of people. Heide recalls that “People — including me — just gravitated to John. He always had this terrific sense of humor, an Irish twinkle in his eye, and a welcoming personality.”
After battling Acute Myeloid Leukemia for three years at ChristianaCare’s Helen F. Graham Cancer Center and Research Institute, John—affectionately known in his community as “The Mayor”—defied expectations, outliving his initial prognosis of only a few months. His lively, larger-than-life spirit won the hearts of his care team, who he affectionately called his “angels.” Incredibly moved by his care team’s dedication and the holistic care John received, Heide understood that this multi-faceted care not only extended his life but also allowed him two precious years with his first grandchild, Oliver. That gift of time at ChristianaCare was the greatest gift anyone could have given John and his loved ones.
To honor this gift and create a legacy of hope, Heide and John discussed making a planned gift to support cancer research. Following his passing in 2013, Heide established a significant trust in her will to benefit ChristianaCare’s Cawley Center for Translational Cancer Research (CCTCR). Her bequest is projected to exceed $1 million in the coming years.
Today, the CCTCR continues making transformational strides toward finding cures for leukemia and other cancers, spreading hope for a healthier future. Meanwhile, John’s unforgettable spirit remains a part of the hospital’s history—an enduring source of inspiration for caregivers and patients.
For more information, including sample bequest language and a free estate planning guide, please visit Christianacare.giftlegacy.com
ChristianaCare Hospital, West Grove is open to serve! In ChristianaCare’s 188-year history, its first neighborhood hospital has opened its doors to the community. This facility offers a new model of emergency and acute care right in the heart of southern Chester County, Pennsylvania. A 20,000-square-foot hospital with around-theclock care in a modern, easily accessible setting, it is staffed with board-certified emergency physicians, skilled nurses, and clinical specialists, all dedicated to delivering patient-first, efficient and compassionate care.
“It’s an honor and privilege to expand access to highquality care for our neighbors in southern Chester County,” said Janice Nevin, M.D., MPH, President and CEO of ChristianaCare. “We are opening our doors for the families in this community with a steadfast commitment to being their trusted health care partner. We’re grateful for the opportunity to bring love and excellence to those we will serve.”
ChristianaCare is expanding its neighborhood hospital model to address care gaps across southeastern Pennsylvania. New hospitals are being planned for Aston and Springfield Townships in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, with the Aston
The 4th Annual Friends of the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute 5K Run/Walk was a resounding success, drawing over 900 participants—almost double last year—and raising more than $307,000 for bench-to-bedside cancer research, surpassing our fundraising goal. “Every step taken during the Friends 5K brings us closer to breakthroughs that can change lives,” said Dr. Thomas Schwaab, Medical Director of the Cancer Center. The funds support vital research and inspire hope for patients and families battling cancer. “Our goal is to rapidly translate new discoveries into clinical care, improving survival rates and quality of life,” he added. Heather Panichelli (captured as she nears the finish line), an 18-year veteran of Christiana Hospital’s Emergency Department and breast cancer survivor, shared how meaningful the event was: “Having received care here, it’s important to raise money to help future cancer patients.”
Teeing Off For Wellness
Funding Vital Programs At ChristianaCare
Over 200 golfers, forming 58 teams, took to the fairways of the DuPont Country Club in Wilmington, Delaware, for the 34th annual ChristianaCare Golf Classic. A huge thank you to our Presenting sponsor, Hatzel & Buehler, Inc. and to the incredible generosity of 35 sponsors, the event raised $280,000—funds that will directly support essential health programs and services. Your continued support helps us expand access to quality care and improve health outcomes for those in need. Together, we are making a lasting impact. A special THANK YOU to all of our sponsors and congratulations to the award winners!
location already under construction and expected to open in late 2026.
Breaking additional ground in the state of Delaware in late September, ChristianaCare is scheduled to open an 87,000-square-foot health center in Middletown in early 2027. The new health center (rendering pictured above) will be ChristianaCare’s newest addition to its Middletown presence, and will join its freestanding Middletown Emergency Department, which saw more than 32,000 visits in 2024 and includes an emergency helicopter helipad.
To learn more about supporting these and other projects, please contact the Office of Philanthropy at 302-327-3305 or philanthropy@christianacare.org.
“Community Health Impact is beyond grateful to the Junior Board of ChristianaCare for your generous $100,000 gift supporting our Food is Medicine work. Your investment will allow us to expand our Food is Medicine program portfolio — including new culinary medicine interventions — to help patients heal, thrive, and lead healthier lives.
This donation isn’t just funding; it’s a powerful catalyst for health equity, community connection, and whole-person care. Thank you for believing in the transformative power of food and helping change the lives of the communities we serve.”
— Michelle L. Axe, MS, Community Health Program Manager
On June 10, 2025, at the Wilmington Country Club, Junior Board members and guests celebrated a memorable General Meeting and Luncheon. In a proud moment, they unveiled the BIG check for their JB Cause 2025, and when ChristianaCare’s Michelle Axe and Jacqueline Ortiz saw the $100,000 figure for ‘Food is Medicine,’ they were speechless!
“Food is medicine” is the provision of healthy food to prevent, manage, or treat specific clinical conditions in a way that is integrated within the healthcare sector. Patients are referred to these services by a healthcare provider, healthcare organization, or health insurance plan.
Preliminary evidence indicates that delivering food is medicine programs may improve health outcomes, reduce healthcare utilization and costs, address health disparities, and reduce nutrition and food insecurity for patients living with acute or chronic diseases.”
— American Heart Association: Health Care by Food
The Friends’ First Guest Bartender Night Nears $40K
On August 21st, the Friends of Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute hosted their inaugural Guest Bartender Night at the local BBC Tavern and Grill, turning an ordinary happy hour into an extraordinary celebration of community and compassion. With the spirited turnout and generous hearts, the event raised nearly $40,000—an incredible feat that underscores the power of coming together for a meaningful cause (or in this case, “A Cure”). Attendees enjoyed not only fun raffle prizes and a fantastic lineup of volunteer bartenders, all “Pouring for A Cure,” but also experienced firsthand the warmth and camaraderie that fuels this dedicated group. The funds added to the overall proceeds for the 4th Annual Friends 5k Run/Walk, helping to advance vital research and patient care. It was a night of joy, generosity, and hope—proof that when we unite, we can make a definitive difference.
Meeting ChristianaCare’s Child Life Specialist* Shannon Taylor, you’re quickly drawn to her genuine warmth and enthusiasm. In just a short time, it becomes evident that her role in the Pediatric Care Unit in the ChristianaCare Center for Women’s and Children’s Health is essential—demanding heartfelt dedication and constant intuition to truly support her young patients and their families. In her brief tenure, Shannon has created meaningful connections and positively influence the recovery experience for families as demonstrated in this testimony from a patient’s daughter:
On behalf of ChristianaCare, we thank Ms. Miranda Phillips, our 2025 Grateful Family Member, for recognizing her family’s exceptional care at the Helen F. Graham Cancer Center & Research Institute. She and her family (pictured) served as the 2025 President’s Reception Grateful Family Honorees.
The President’s Reception, held this year on Wednesday, June 4th, at the Blue Ball Barn in Wilmington, Delaware, is a significant annual event, hosted by ChristianaCare’s President and CEO Dr. Janice Nevin and Office of Philanthropy, serves as a key opportunity for our donors to engage directly with the Leadership Team and for the Office of Philanthropy to recognize and steward our valued supporters. The President’s Reception has become a cornerstone of our annual engagement efforts. This event plays a vital role in strengthening relationships, showcasing how collective giving has positively impacted our community, and reaffirming our donors’ essential role in our mission. Attendees are provided with updates on health system initiatives, and each year, a grateful family is highlighted and invited to share their inspiring experience, underscoring the profound impact of philanthropy.
Pink Lemonade with a Purpose!
The North East Little League Minor A & B players hit a home run for breast cancer awareness by hosting a Pink Lemonade Stand—and even offering field delivery! Their efforts raised $460 in October for ChristianaCare’s Breast Health Center at Union Hospital, helping patients with transportation, groceries, and bills during treatment. Thanks to these young champions for showing that teamwork goes beyond the field!
“Hi, it’s LeeAnna Fullis. You helped my daughters, Bailee, and Maddie; my niece, Rylea, my nephew, Chace; and my dad, Paul with the passing of my mom, Barbara Crawford, on the MICU last Wednesday, July 2nd.
I want to say thank you for everything you did for my family to help us say goodbye. Your name will forever be a part of my mom’s story, and your presence will always be remembered by us. You healed my eight-year-old self’s heart by allowing my kids to have an amazing experience saying goodbye to their “Mom-Mom.” I cannot put into words how much that meant to all of us.
Thank you for everything you did for us and everything that you do to help heal the broken hearts of family members. You are truly a Godsend and were handpicked by God to be a Child Life Specialist.”
*A Child Life Specialist is a healthcare professional who supports children and families facing stress from illness, hospitalization, or disability through education, therapeutic play, and emotional support to reduce anxiety and promote coping.
Raises $20K