EMPOWERED BY PHILANTHROPY
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WAVES OF IMPACT
As part of our commitment to supporting athletics and the Orange County community, Hoag was a sponsor of the 2024 Lexus US Open of Surfing in Huntington Beach this summer. Showcasing Hoag’s dedication to empowering emerging surfers, Dr. Allyson Brooks, Ginny Ueberroth Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair, Women’s Health Institute, connected with the next generation of surf talent at the 2024 World Surf League’s Rising Tides event.
From the President
Dear Friends,
What an incredible experience it’s been these first months as president of the Hoag Hospital Foundation. I have met countless people, each with an immense passion for supporting Hoag and our community. I consider them, and you, as my partners in the important mission of expanding health care across Orange County. In the following pages, you will see the impact of people who have made it their purpose to change the lives of others for the better.
You’ll read about people like the Martin and Pickup families, who made a purposeful and transformational $25 million gift this year to establish a center at Hoag that will help those living with substance use disorders. We are grateful for their vision and dedication and for the many generous community members you will learn about in this magazine. It inspires me to know that since I began at Hoag earlier this year, each person I have met has a vision that moves them.
During my tours of the growing Sun Family Campus in Irvine, I am always accompanied by someone—a physician, donor, patient, or colleague—who has a unique purpose for what this burgeoning space will be to them. When I think about my purpose, I look at the year ahead. Meeting the goals of the Boldly Hoag campaign is at the top of the list — because fulfilling our promise to the community is key.
This campaign is helping us establish, enhance, and expand the lifelines needed for healthy communities. I think about the many people across this region who need access to our experts and our innovative and creative care methods. Working together, driven by the power of our passions, we can push Hoag to even greater heights. Thank you for being part of our family. I am excited for what is to come. I hope you are, too.
With gratitude,
Caroline A. Pereira, MBA President, Hoag Hospital Foundation
CREATING CONNECTIONS
Since her first day as Hoag Hospital Foundation president on June 24, Caroline has been building bonds with Hoag supporters, leaders, and community members, becoming an engaging presence at our events, some of which are shown here.
H.E.R. Summit by Hoag
Topping-off ceremony for the Cancer & Digestive Hospital Pavilion and Women’s Hospital Pavilion on Hoag’s Sun Family Campus in Irvine
Construction tour of Hoag’s Sun Family Campus in Irvine with Hoag and volunteer leaders
Induction ceremony of Dr. Adam Kanter, Ron & Sandi Simon Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair, Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute
EmpowHER Wellness Salon hosted by Kelly Mogharebi and Samantha Castillo
Hoag Summer Fest
From the Chair
Dear Friends of Hoag,
I am proud when I reflect on the past year. As an organization, we opened an exciting chapter by welcoming Caroline Pereira as the new president of the Hoag Hospital Foundation. Her passion for collaborating and partnering with the community and our board is inspiring. We will work together to strategize how to further propel Hoag through the power of philanthropy, and I am grateful to be working alongside her.
Going into a new year, I see so many opportunities, especially as Hoag expands its footprint across Orange County. We aspire to elevate philanthropic initiatives, build bonds with more community members, nurture the spirit of innovation, and cultivate robust relationships.
The stories in this magazine illustrate the accomplishments made possible thanks to the generosity of our donors and the investments they have made in Hoag. In the same way Hoag recruits forward-thinking physicians with profound vision, we also aim high when it comes to engaging those who want to help Hoag amplify its impact.
I extend a heartfelt invitation to each of you to share your ideas, bring your perspectives, and shed light on your insights to help shape Hoag’s future. We appreciate your partnership and your role in helping us forge a trajectory that brings vital health care to our communities for generations to come.
Sincerely,
Debbie Margolis Chair, Hoag Hospital Foundation Board of Directors
2024
Board of Directors
Officers
Deborah H. Margolis, Chair
Stephen G. Muzzy, Vice Chair
Kyle B. Wescoat, Treasurer
Diane A. Connelly, Secretary
Directors
Anthony A. Allen
Lisa Argyros
Victor A. Assad
Philip A. Belling
Patricia L. Berchtold
Robert T. Braithwaite
Irving M. Chase
Gary A. Fudge
Whitney K. Gomez
Mark A. Hardtke, Sr.
Betty E. Huang
Paul C. Lin
Devon R. Martin
Carolyn C. McKitterick
Gary Pickett
Aidan A. Raney, MD, FACC
Katherine Shen
Cynthia Stokke
Richard H. Taketa
NEXTUP
This is your source for what’s new and next from Hoag’s world-class team.
Hoag Innovators Fall Meeting Brings Investments in New Clinical Advancements
FPO INNOVATORS FEATURE
Hoag Innovators is a group of philanthropists, entrepreneurs, and community leaders dedicated to catalyzing innovation at Hoag. Members meet twice a year to hear pitches from Hoag clinicians in pursuit of funding for their innovative projects in a Shark Tank TED Talks-style model. During the group’s fall 2024 meeting at the Newport Beach Country Club, attendees heard pitches from four forward-thinking physicians.
The Hoag Innovators voted to fund two groundbreaking projects: one to develop a blood test for the early diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and another in pancreatic cancer detection through cyst surveillance. Since its creation in 2017, Hoag Innovators has raised more than $25.76 million for health care advancements at Hoag.
Dr. Miles Chang Steps into Chief of Staff Role
Dr. Miles Chang has assumed the role of chief of staff, where he will lead and oversee the medical staff at Hoag, ensuring the highest standards of patient care and serving as a vital link between the medical team and hospital administration. Since joining Hoag in 1995, Dr. Chang has witnessed and contributed to the hospital’s remarkable growth.
While significant campus expansions at both Newport and Irvine are underway, Dr. Chang will focus on enhancing physician wellness programs, advancing medical education, and developing fellowship programs at Hoag.
He and his wife, Dr. Catherine Chang, a physician in private practice, are dedicated supporters of the Hoag Hospital Foundation. They regularly attend events like Hoag Summer Fest and the Christmas Carol Ball and have pledged an estate gift to ensure Hoag’s lasting impact.
National Philanthropy Day Honors for Circle 1000 and the late Dick Pickup
National Philanthropy Day, celebrated annually on November 15, honors those who strengthen and empower their communities through philanthropy. This year at the Association of Fundraising Professionals National Philanthropy Day luncheon, Hoag was recognized with two tributes—one in memory of the late Dick Pickup and another for the Circle 1000 community.
Dick Pickup’s $50 million gift to establish the Richard H. Pickup Center for Brain Health and his earlier support for the Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute have profoundly shaped the future of neurological care at Hoag. Circle 1000, a philanthropic group founded by breast cancer survivor Sandy Sewell, has raised over $25 million in 37 years, advancing cancer care at the Hoag Family Cancer Institute. We are inspired by the legacies of care these honorees created.
Caroline A. Pereira & Dr. Lisa Karamardian Nominated for Women in Business Awards
Caroline A. Pereira, MBA, president of the Hoag Hospital Foundation, and Dr. Lisa Karamardian, the Jeffrey M. Carlton Endowed Chair in Women’s Health, in honor of Dr. Anne M. Kent, were nominated for the Orange CountyBusiness Journal’s Women in Business Awards. Caroline, with over 20 years of fundraising expertise, has led major philanthropic efforts, including the Boldly Hoag campaign. Dr. Karamardian, an esteemed obstetrician and gynecologist, continues to advance women’s health at Hoag with a focus on innovative, minimally invasive treatments.
Being nominated for these awards highlights their exceptional leadership and contributions, reflecting their pivotal roles in advancing health care and philanthropy and underscoring their impact on the success and well-being of the Orange County community.
Dr. Lisa Karamardian and Caroline A. Pereira
Haven at Hoa g
Martin & Pickup Families Make $25 Million Gift for Substance Use Recovery Center
Members of the Martin and Pickup families are propelling their advocacy for increased substance use recovery care and services with a transformational $25 million gift that will establish the CareMar Recovery Center at Hoag. This commitment will enable the development of a new facility, unlike any other in Orange County, that will provide residential and outpatient services for people living with alcohol and substance use disorders and will be guided by Hoag’s exceptional standards for health care.
Carole Pickup, mother of Devon Martin and Todd Pickup, was the inspiration behind the contribution made by her family, honoring her decades of work in support of substance use recovery resources. Together, Carole Pickup, Devon Martin and her husband Kevin Martin, along with Todd Pickup and his wife Natalie Pickup, made the generous gift, which will be used to build a multi-level facility at Hoag Hospital Newport Beach.
A rendering of the new CareMar Recovery Center at Hoag Hospital Newport Beach
“It’s been a longtime goal of our family to work with Hoag to create a facility that people know they can turn to with the resources to change their lives for the better,” said Devon Martin, who also serves on the Hoag Hospital Foundation Board of Directors. “We see this gift as a first step toward making that a reality for everyone, no matter where they are in their recovery journey,” she said. The CareMar Recovery Center will change the course of addiction treatment and recovery care, answering the growing demand for these services in the region.
“This gift will put our plans into action—and with addiction, moving fast is paramount to saving lives.”
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Robert T. Braithwaite President and CEO,
Hoag
Visuals shown are artistic renderings, contingent on Hoag and
Growing Community Need
A major differentiator of the CareMar Recovery Center will be the evidence-based care delivered to patients by leading medical professionals. While Hoag already delivers recovery services within the hospital, building an expanded facility with a larger capacity has been a priority. Nearly 370,000 people in Orange County suffer from addiction, and a growing number of those are people over the age of 50.
“This gift will put our plans into action—and with addiction, moving fast is paramount to saving lives,” said Robert Braithwaite, president and CEO of Hoag. Major initiatives for this facility will center around increasing access to care and creating a robust roster of customized services. Part of the vision for this facility is to help alleviate financial obstacles to treatment by providing scholarships and other support to navigate patient care.
Hoag physician Matthew Reed, MD, chief of inpatient pain and outpatient addiction, and medical director for residential addiction treatment, underscored the distinctiveness of the CareMar center’s hospital-based program. “Being part of a hospital allows us to care for patients with addiction and co-existing medical conditions, which is often a barrier to treatment in other settings. This unique integration ensures that we provide comprehensive care that addresses all aspects of a patient’s health.”
Tailoring programs to each patient will set apart the CareMar center at Hoag, which will emphasize personalized patient-centered care across all areas. In addition to clinical care and treatment services, other offerings are planned, including those that serve family support systems, residents and outpatients, longterm success, group sessions, wellness activities, and focused tracks that may include guidance specialized for women, people with trauma, and more.
CareMar Recovery Center interiors will feature a soothing and bright aesthetic to promote healing, as seen in this design sample.
A Family’s Mission
Carole Pickup, the CareMar center’s namesake, has made it a personal mission to bring substance use services to people in need. “It’s a blessing to be able to give to help others heal and live happier lives. It’s been rewarding for me to dedicate so much of my life to raising awareness and resources for people living with the challenges of addiction,” she said. “So many people need a safe place and compassionate experts around them to lift them up. I am grateful that my family can join with Hoag to create this center for our community.”
Bringing a substance use treatment center to Orange County with the ability to serve many people was a longstanding goal. According to Todd Pickup, “The CareMar center at Hoag will fill a gap we have in our region for comprehensive care in all stages of treatment and recovery. Its location on a hospital campus will make sure that clinical safety and access to physicians and medical staff is always available.”
The Martin and Pickup families (clockwise from top left): Kevin Martin, Todd Pickup, Natalie Pickup, Carole Pickup, and Devon Martin.
A proposed expanded courtyard, seen in this artistic rendering, will be a welcoming open-air space for groups and individuals.
Vital Continued Support
Hoag has committed financial support in addition to raising more funding to advance the project. “We are immensely grateful to the Martin and Pickup families for their continued investment in Hoag and elevating our community’s health,” said Caroline A. Pereira, MBA, president of the Hoag Hospital Foundation. “This gift allows us to launch this important project and bring opportunities to more people who are passionate about supporting substance use resources.”
The CareMar Recovery Center will be a key part of the future expansion of Hoag Hospital Newport Beach’s south, lower campus off Pacific Coast Highway.
Kambria Hittelman, PsyD, MBA, executive director of addiction medicine and mental health services at Hoag, has been instrumental in shaping the plans for recovery care and the new facility. “There is so much more we will be able to do for our patients toward reducing readmission and providing long-term success,” she said. “Our staff and expert minds delivering care will be key to that success.”
As the facility physically takes shape, continued donor support will be vital to filling the space with all the necessary components to deliver treatment.
“It is exciting to know that we can finally begin bringing this center to life,” Dr. Hittelman said. “This gift from the Martin and Pickup families shows their commitment to our community, and I look forward to partnering with them and others with our shared passion.”
To learn more about supporting the expansion of the CareMar Recovery Center, please contact Jenn Brown, executive director of development, (949) 764-7454 or Jennifer.Brown@hoag.org.
At a Glance | CareMa r Recovery Cente r
The vision for this center is a major expansion of Hoag’ s recovery services that will
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Tours of Hoag ’ s Irvine Expansion Connect the Community During Construction
Judith & Jan Kolar Wellness Park
A hallmark of the Sun Family Campus is an emphasis on lush outdoor spaces. Lined with greenery and flowers, the Kolar Wellness Park provides a soothing open-air space for visitors and staff alike to enjoy.
needed for surgeries with soothing surroundings that foster healing, redefining the surgical experience for patients and their families.
Women’s Hospital Pavilion
The Women’s Hospital Pavilion will unite leading-edge technology and compassionate care to create a destination for inpatient and outpatient health care spanning all stages of a woman’s life.
Visuals shown are artistic renderings, contingent on Hoag and municipal approval.
As the campus evolves, so do opportunities to see Hoag’s expansion up close. From a lookout point atop a parking structure with mountain views to glimpses of the complex mechanisms in the structural foundations below, tours are a chance to step inside what’s coming and see where philanthropy can make the greatest impact. Join us as we travel around the Sun Family Campus.
Du Family Hospital Pavilion - Front Entrance
Named after a generous family who has supported Hoag’s Irvine growth, this pavilion and its new main entrance will be the “front door” of the hospital and welcome all who come to Hoag.
Cancer & Digestive Hospital Pavilion
Uniting two health areas that often impact patients concurrently, the Cancer & Digestive Hospital Pavilion will deliver comprehensive care by specialized clinicians aiming to innovate and change the course of treatment and healing.
Worship Center
This dedicated space for reflection will serve people of all faiths. With ample seating draped in natural light, the Worship Center will provide comfort and respite.
Sun Family Campus Tour
Highlights
Judith & Jan Kolar Wellness Park
The park features:
• Open-air seating
• Shaded tables
• Trees and greenery
• Walking paths
Surgical Pavilion
The pavilion will feature:
• 8 new operating rooms, including a hybrid room, allowing simultaneous diagnostic imaging and surgeries
• 2 procedure rooms for minor interventions
• 24-room intensive care unit with a family room and balcony
• Seamless experience from check-in to departure, including a new patient discharge lounge
Women’s Hospital Pavilion
The pavilion will feature:
• New inpatient wing with 24 LDRP (labor, delivery, recovery, postpartum) suites
• 21 antepartum and postpartum rooms
• Maternal Mental Health Program offerings
• Maternal Fetal Health Center
• OB triage space with patient and labor monitoring
• New Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, with 17 NICU beds
• Comprehensive Breast Center with MRI, stereotactic and diagnostic mammography, biopsy ultrasound, standard ultrasound, and DEXA scan
• Physician offices
Du Family Hospital Pavilion - Front Entrance
The new space will feature:
• Grand arrival space with valet
• Pacific Life Foundation Lobby
• Hoag Cafe, in gratitude to Jeanette Bertea Hennings, serving various cuisines to accommodate diets and tastes
• A hub for Hoag ambassadors to assist guests
• 24-hour coffee bar with specialty beverages
• Comfortable lounge and waiting areas
Worship Center
The center will feature:
• Resources and staff to offer counsel and guidance
• Open space to congregate
• Warm and calming aesthetic
• Glass walls with access to the open-air Fainbarg Reflection Garden
• Garden access to the Tree of Life sculpture, honoring posthumous organ donors
Cancer & Digestive Hospital Pavilion
The pavilion will feature:
• 70 new inpatient rooms
• Two-floor cancer center with clinic and infusion spaces co-located to deliver focused treatment for different types of cancer
• A specialized pharmacy
• GI and fluoroscopy labs
• 24-hour urgent care for cancer patients
• 6 gastrointestinal procedure suites with broadcast capabilities for educational purposes
• Administrative and teaching spaces, medical offices, collaboration areas, and facilities for clinical exploration/research
To learn more about the Boldly Hoag campaign to support the expansion of Hoag’s Sun Family Campus in Irvine and tour opportunities, scan the QR code.
A Meeting of Minds: Advancing the Future of Cancer Care
Physicians at the Hoag Family Cancer Institute (HFCI) came together this past spring for a powerful gathering that highlighted groundbreaking advancements in the fight against cancer. This Cancer State of the Union was a showcase of innovation, collaboration, and the profound impact of philanthropy in pushing the boundaries of cancer treatment.
Here’s a snapshot of the groundbreaking developments spotlighted at the event:
These discussions underscored how philanthropic support at Hoag helps attract world-class talent and accelerates research that is transforming patient care in our community and beyond. “Recruitment of the best and most talented physician-scientists is an essential part of the strategy of the Hoag Family Cancer Institute,” said Teresa Conk, senior vice president and chief clinical institutes officer, in introducing the panel. “They’re committed to bringing the most promising novel treatments and innovations to our patients here in Orange County.”
Philanthropist Otis Healy and Michael Demeure, MD, MBA, FACS, FACE, Otis Healy Family Endowed Chair in Applied Geonomics
Carlos R. Becerra, MD
Margaret Givan Larkin Endowed Chair in Developmental Cancer Therapeutics and medical director of Hoag’s Cancer Clinical Research
In 2023, HFCI opened 55 early phase I and phase II clinical trials and enrolled 83 patients. “We have a very strong clinical trial portfolio, and we’re continuing to expand the number of studies available for the population we serve here in Orange County. Our goal is to make the most promising therapies available to our patients, right here in Orange County,” Dr. Becerra said. He added that sponsors are eager to open trials at Hoag because of the streamlined, less bureaucratic process and the collaborative relationships being fostered with our physicians. Hoag now averages 90 days to open a study, as compared to nine to 12 months at an academic medical center.
FROM LEFT TO RIGHT:
Teresa Conk, Senior Vice President and Chief Clinical Institutes Officer, Dr. Brian Kim, Dr. Jared Forrester, Dr. Steven Wang, Dr. Tara Seery, Dr. Tiffany Beck, Dr. Carlos Becerra, Dr. David Benjamin, Dr. Michael Demeure, and Dori Holnagel, Vice President of the Hoag Family Cancer Institute
Tiffany L. Beck, MD, MPH, FACOG
Co-director of Hoag’s Gynecologic Oncology Clinical Trials Program
Dr. Beck said most ovarian cancer patients previously did not survive past five years. “Now we’re seeing survivors that are decades out,” she said. She credits immunotherapy and targeted molecular therapies for creating changes in the standard of care for ovarian and other gynecologic cancers. Dr. Beck also noted that Hoag is currently one of only two sites nationwide taking part in a phase I trial using oncolytic virus injections to treat ovarian cancer. “We had a groundbreaking publication,” Dr. Beck said, “and now we’re proud to be part of the phase III trial for that.” Dr. Beck further noted that each time her group participates in a trial, “our patients here at Hoag directly benefit.”
David J. Benjamin, MD
Medical oncologist
Dr. Benjamin joined Hoag in 2023 after completing a fellowship in genitourinary (GU) cancer. A co-author of more than 50 publications, he recently opened two phase III clinical trials, one in early-stage bladder cancer and the other for a rare form of kidney cancer. “The hope is that these therapies will one day be the standard of care,” he said, adding that they are already available to patients enrolled in the trials at Hoag.
Brian S. Kim, MD
Radiation oncologist
Dr. Kim thanked philanthropy for keeping Hoag at the forefront of radiation oncology technology, which he said advances faster than perhaps any other medical field. Using Hoag’s new MRI-guided radiation technology, he said, “We’re able to image tumors in real time with MRI, and we can adapt [treatment] plans on a day-to-day basis. It allows us to not just increase the dose to the tumor but also to minimize side effects.”
Michael J. Demeure, MD, MBA, FACS, FACE
Otis Healy Family Endowed Chair in Applied Genomics and program director of the Hoag Precision Medicine Program
Through its focus on genomic profiling of tumor cells, the Precision Medicine Program further advances Hoag’s clinical studies. With more than 5,000 tumors genomically sequenced and a highly organized patient database, Dr. Demeure said Hoag can tailor treatment to each patient. The database also helps Hoag recruit patients quickly for trials. “We can identify those patients that would benefit from a new trial that has been opened and let them know there is a new drug or clinical trial for their specific type of cancer,” Dr. Demeure said.
Jared A. Forrester, MD
Hepatobiliary and pancreas surgeon
Dr. Forrester joined Hoag in 2023 and is already launching a trial using an implantable device to deliver an immunotherapeutic agent to treat locally advanced pancreatic cancer. The five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer—usually detected at stage IV—is just 13%, but studies show intervention at stage I can increase survival to 83%. Dr. Forrester also shared that in summer 2024, Hoag became the second California site with HistoSonics technology, an ultrasound-based technique that uses ultrasonic pulses to destroy tumors at a subcellular level.
Tara E. Seery, MD
Director of hepatobiliary cancer and co-director of cell therapy
Steven Q. Wang, MD Medical director of dermatologic oncology
Dr. Seery joined Hoag in part to conduct research on natural killer (NK) cell therapy, which stimulates the body’s immune system to fight cancer. “We did the first NK cell trial for pancreatic cancer,” Dr. Seery said, noting that philanthropy helped fund the expansion of the trial, drawing patients from around the world to participate. Building on the data from this successful multiple-line trial, Dr. Seery has written a protocol for a first-line trial utilizing grant funding from California’s stem cell research fund.
With philanthropic support, Hoag recruited Dr. Wang and became the first hospital west of the Mississippi with the VECTRA WB360 whole-body imaging system. Using 92 high-fidelity cameras, the VECTRA maps moles and lesions on patients at high risk for melanoma. “We can detect skin cancer early without having to do numerous unnecessary biopsies,” Dr. Wang said. “This innovative device really advanced and distinguished Hoag’s Dermatologic Oncology Program.”
The event concluded with a significant reminder from Dr. Wang about the collaborative spirit that defines the Hoag Family Cancer Institute. “When you’re taking care of cancer, it’s not just the one specialist or one physician; it’s a team of physicians,” he emphasized. This teamwork, fueled by philanthropy, is what truly sets Hoag apart. Together, these dedicated physicians and scientists are driving cutting-edge innovations that promise to revolutionize cancer care and improve patient outcomes.
HOW NURSE NAVIGATORS SHAPE
PATIENT JOURNEYS AT HOAG
Philanthropy Powers Nurse Navigators, Elevating Care Across Hoag Institutes
At Hoag, the specialized attention provided by our dedicated nurse navigators sets us apart. These nursing professionals do more than guide patients through challenging health care journeys—they become a constant, reassuring presence, available to answer questions, manage complex care transitions, and offer emotional support at every step.
This level of personalized care is made possible through the generosity of Hoag’s dedicated donor community, whose contributions help create a health care environment where patients feel supported and empowered. The following stories showcase just a few of the outstanding nurse navigators across Hoag’s institutes, whose impact is felt deeply by patients and their families every day.
Natalie Davin, BSN, RN
– Curci Family Chronic Pain & Neuropathy Program Nurse Navigator | Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute
As a nurse navigator specializing in pain management, Natalie Davin ensures that patients receive comprehensive, continuous care from hospital admission to outpatient support. “If a patient’s pain management needs go beyond an acute situation, they are referred to me,” Natalie explains. She remains a point of contact for patients, often forming lasting relationships. Natalie’s specialization enables her to identify urgent conditions, in some instances in follow-up conversations on the phone, facilitating prompt action and coordinated care.
By maintaining close contact and involving patients’ families, she ensures that patients receive continuous support and guidance throughout their treatment journey, leading to effective care and successful transitions.
Reflecting on the profound impact of philanthropic support for her role, Natalie stated, “I’m not sure the Chronic Pain & Neuropathy Program Nurse Navigator position would have moved forward without Mr. Curci’s donation.
In less than a year, I’ve supported over 150 hospital discharges and countless outpatient support measures.
Donating to nurse navigation is very tangible; you know you’re directly impacting patient care.”
“Being able to stay with patients who are still processing the shock of a serious diagnosis, being able to support and educate them, especially when family can’ t be there, makes such a difference in their care journey.”
- Jennifer Lozano
Jennifer Lozano, BSN, RN – Brain, Spine and Sarcoma Nurse Navigator | Hoag Family Cancer Institute
Jennifer Lozano guides patients through complex brain, spine, and sarcoma diagnoses, providing continuity and personalized support during their most challenging moments. “Hoag is also unique in its cancer program. We focus on specific or a couple of disease groups,” Jennifer shared, explaining how this specialization allows for more targeted, personalized care and better overall outcomes.
A poignant example of Jennifer’s impact occurred during the COVID-19 pandemic when she supported a young mother diagnosed with a brain tumor. With hospital restrictions in place, Jennifer provided essential comfort and guidance as the patient received her diagnosis without her family present.
“The neurosurgeon reached out to me and said, ‘Hey, can you come with me? I’m going to go share her diagnosis. The husband will be on the phone, but I’d like you to be there and stay with her after,’” Jennifer recalled, emphasizing the importance of having a familiar face during such daunting times. Jennifer noted, “The journey looks so different without a nurse navigator. Being able to stay with patients who are still processing the shock of a serious diagnosis—being able to support and educate them, especially when family can’t be there—makes such a difference in their care journey.”
Lenni Pearson, BSN, RN – Clinical Nurse Navigator, Margolis
Family Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program | Hoag Digestive Health Institute
As the clinical nurse navigator for Hoag’s Margolis Family Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program, Lenni Pearson ensures seamless and comprehensive care by coordinating everything from insurance authorizations to treatment plans, providing stability and continuity within the program. Lenni’s dedication to patient advocacy is evident as she supports patients through challenging diagnoses, offering her direct contact information to ensure they feel empowered and informed. “It’s about walking through the fire with a patient,” Lenni explains, highlighting the balance between providing support and empowering patients to advocate for themselves.
Lenni also fosters strong relationships with donors, keeping them informed about the program’s progress and new initiatives like patient workshops. “It’s rewarding to show them the positive impact of their support,” she shared, acknowledging the significance of donor contributions on both patients and the program’s growth.
Cecilia Fernandez, BSN, RN – Breast Imaging Navigator | Sue J. Gross Comprehensive Breast Center
Cecilia Fernandez embodies the compassionate and personalized care that patients diagnosed with breast cancer at Hoag receive. From the moment of diagnosis, Cecilia is a steady presence, guiding patients through their treatment journey with warmth and expertise.
Lisa Kuecker, FNP-BC, CHFN
– Nurse Practitioner, Heart Failure Program | Jeffrey M. Carlton Heart & Vascular Institute
Over the years, Lisa Kuecker has learned how much heart failure patients value her expertise in answering pressing questions and navigating their conditions. A recipient of Hoag nursing education scholarships, Lisa is grateful for the generous support of philanthropic funds that allowed her to pursue higher education and become a nurse practitioner.
“Treating heart failure patients is a multidisciplinary team approach,” Lisa says. “I think a big part of what I do is give patients more knowledge and education about their diagnosis and serve as another advocate for them.” Lisa routinely checks in with patients after they return home, ensuring they adhere to treatment plans and feel supported. “Patients are so appreciative of the work we do, and it makes me look forward to coming into work every day,” she said.
“I think that’s the critical point,” she says, highlighting the importance of her initial interactions, where she reassures patients that they are in capable and caring hands. Like others in her field, her dedication goes beyond clinical support. Cecilia forms lasting connections, providing each patient with comprehensive resources and making herself readily available for any concerns.
One notable example is a patient who traveled from Chicago for treatment. Cecilia’s guidance and care fostered a bond that extended to the patient’s family, who felt so supported that they referred other loved ones to Hoag. “We’d sit in the lobby and chat like old friends,” Cecilia recalled, reflecting the deep trust and connection she builds with her patients, showcasing the unique impact of Hoag’s nurse navigator program.
SCENE
A look at the latest Hoag Hospital Foundation events and gatherings.
May 2024
Circle 1000 Founders’ Celebration Brunch
Over 270 guests gathered at the 37th annual Circle 1000 Founders’ Celebration Brunch, raising $1,151,193 for the Hoag Family Cancer Institute, pushing the group’s total contributions to over $25 million. The event, co-chaired by mother-daughter pair Mary V. Buckingham and Lacy Robertson, featured a touching conversation about the impact of philanthropy on cancer care with breast cancer survivor Deb McCune, moderated by Dori Holnagel, vice president of the Hoag Family Cancer Institute. The morning’s keynote speaker, psychologist Dr. Dan Shapiro, added humor and insight, commending Circle 1000 for their remarkable impact on cancer care.
June 2024
Hoag Summer Fest
The 36th annual Hoag Summer Fest was a night to remember, filled with delicious food, vibrant entertainment, and philanthropy under the stars at Newport Dunes. With the leadership of event chairs Dr. Burak Ozgur and Mrs. Iman Ozgur, the event raised an impressive $382,675 to support the Boldly Hoag campaign for the expanded Sun Family Campus in Irvine, bringing advanced women’s health, cancer treatment, and digestive health services to more communities across Orange County. Thanks to presenting sponsor Woodside Credit and the many restaurant and beverage partners, the evening’s success will help make this vision a reality.
SCENE
A look at the latest Hoag Hospital Foundation events and gatherings.
July 2024
Dr. Adam Kanter’s Endowed Chair Induction Ceremony
Dr. Adam S. Kanter was inducted as the second Ron & Sandi Simon Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair, Pickup Family Neurosciences Institute. At the ceremony, Dr. Kanter shared his vision for enhancing patient care, supporting staff development, and continuing the legacy of Ron and Sandi Simon. The event highlighted the importance of the Endowed Chair Program in advancing Hoag’s mission to deliver exceptional care to the community.
August 2024
The H.E.R. Summit brought 430 women together for an empowering day at VEA Newport Beach. Hoag experts shared insights during panel discussions on health, empowerment, and rejuvenation, covering vital topics such as gut health, brain health, and the impact of hormones. The day was highlighted by keynote speaker Ally Love, a multi-hyphenate trailblazer, renowned Peloton instructor, and founder of Love Squad, who delivered an inspiring message about stepping into one’s power. Thanks to the generous support of event sponsors, the summit played a crucial role in advancing the Boldly Hoag campaign and making a meaningful impact in women’s health by raising over $176,000.
H.E.R. Summit by Hoag
Windfall or Pitfall? Implications of Inherited IRAs
Inheriting an IRA can also mean inheriting a tax burden. If you have an IRA that you plan to leave to a beneficiary (other than your spouse) but you don’t want them to pay more taxes, you may want to reconsider your approach to transferring wealth to your loved ones.
With passage of the SECURE Act, the beneficiary of a parent’s IRA, for example, can no longer count on a relatively straightforward and tax-savvy method of withdrawals. Instead of taking distributions over their lifetimes, affected children now need to withdraw the entire IRA inheritance within a 10-year period, as calculated under the law.
For example, you pass away at 75, and your son or daughter inherits your IRA. They’re likely in their 40s or 50s, in their peak earning years, and possibly in a high tax bracket. The SECURE Act forces them to take all the money out of the IRA within 10 years, potentially costing them 50 percent of their inheritance in taxes.
We are here to help.
For more information about making a gift to Hoag, contact: Julie Heggeness, JD, CSPG, TEP Vice
President,
Legal & Executive
Director,
Gift Planning
Consider this:
• If you are charitably inclined, a charitable remainder unitrust to the Hoag Hospital Foundation can provide fixed percentage distributions to a beneficiary or beneficiaries for their lifetime or a term of years up to 20.
• The rem aini ng assets at the end of the trust term will be paid to one or more qualified charities that you choose.
• You might also consider making a charity, like the Hoag Hospital Foundation, the direct beneficiary of your I RA and transfer wealth to your loved ones by other means.
Benefits of an IRA Charitable Rollover
An IRA charitable rollover could be a beneficial way to make a big impact on your financial planning and the future of health care at Hoag. If you are 70 ½ or older, you may also be interested in lowering the income and taxes from your IRA withdrawals.
• Avoid taxes on transfers of up to $105,000 from your IRA to the Hoag Hospital Foundation
• May satisfy your required minimum distribution (RMD) for the year
• Reduce your taxable income, even if you do not itemize deductions
• Make a gift that is not subject to the deduction limits on charitable gifts
To learn how you can realize your financial, family support, and philanthropic goals, our gift planning team is available to work with you and your estate planning advisors.
949-764-7206 | Julie.Heggeness@hoag.org | hoaghospitalfoundation.org
MAKE TWICE THE IMPACT ON DECEMBER 3
Thanks to a generous donor, this year, Hoag is matching gifts and doubling your impact. Your gift will support Hoag’s Community Benefit Program and help us continue providing vital health, education, food, mental health resources, and more to people of all ages in Orange County. SCAN TO DONATE
All donations to Community Benefit will be matched up to $250,000.
