Spring/Summer 2013 M E R C Y F O U N D AT I O N
Horizons
Inspiring Philanthropy. Changing Lives.
Joan Gann's lifelong support of the Sisters of Mercy and their mission. | 7
President’s message At this time of year, many students mark a milestone in their lives with graduation. Mercy Foundation is marking a milestone of its own. We are excited to share that Mercy Foundation is on track to raise $6 million by the end of our fiscal year on June 30, 2013. This is a record accomplishment and one which can be attributed to you, our donors and supporters, and to the many worthwhile ministries sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy.
A gift of gratitude – Annie Knowles (right) and her mom, Marge Schweinfurth, gave to the Mercy MS Center, to help others like them receive support and solutions for MS.
Mercy MS Center changes lives with specialized team care Many families will never know the fear and uncertainty of a serious neurological diagnosis. Unfortunately, Annie Knowles and her family have experienced firsthand multiple life-changing neurological conditions. Annie’s father, Paul Schweinfurth, MD, was a respected neurosurgeon in southern California and closely managed the care his family received. “Dad was very particular about our medical care,” Annie recalls. “He knew all too well that the facility and doctor made a big difference in the care and outcome of a medical problem. He made very careful choices for his family.” So when a visit to the ophthalmologist led to a referral to a neurologist for Annie, her father thoroughly researched the physician Annie planned to see – John Schafer, MD, a physician with the Mercy Neurological Institute. “Dad talked to his colleagues and did his research and he was impressed,” Annie says. Unfortunately for Annie, Dr. Schafer confirmed what her father had suspected – she had multiple sclerosis (MS). While the diagnosis was difficult to hear, especially as an active mother of five children, Annie says for the most part her MS has been manageable due to Dr. Schafer's care. “Other than a few problems over the years, my MS has been very benign. It hasn’t affected my life to a great degree. I have been very fortunate.” Continued on page 2
We are proud to raise support for Sisters of Mercy health care ministries that include Mercy Folsom, Methodist, Mercy San Juan and Mercy General hospitals. Mercy Foundation is also unique in that 100 percent of every contribution goes directly to the program designated—an extremely important differentiator among charitable organizations. As we begin a new fiscal year, we are happy to welcome Mark Read as the new Chair of the Mercy Foundation Board and thank Mike Genovese for his leadership as Chair during the past year. Thank you for partnering with us so the Sisters of Mercy can continue to change lives in the Sacramento community.
President and CEO