LADY OF THE LAKE FOUNDATION
ACCELERATING CARE, TRANSFORMING LIVES
Acts of generosity set extraordinary outcomes in motion. Your giving to Our Lady of the Lake Health creates a ripple effect that strengthens the health and vitality of our community.
In these pages, you’ll find diverse examples of giving — from Richard and Lori Pellerin, whose leadership and generosity impacts the patient experience, to the collective impact of the Heroes in Healing members in expanding the music therapy program, to organizations like MMR and Phi Mu at LSU whose investments advance pediatric health at our Children’s Hospital.
Our clinicians have seen incredible progress in groundbreaking sepsis research, success with advanced robotics surgeries, enhancements in stroke care and the expansion of music therapy in critical areas.
Through the dedication and tenacity of our team members and the donors who support their efforts, our collective impact shapes the distinctive care provided across our ministry. I am humbled and grateful to witness the impact of your philanthropy every day.
Your generosity accelerates innovation and empowers healing, and we are honored to have you by our side in this important work. I hope these stories illustrate the profound impact of your giving and inspire you as we continue this journey together.
Sincerely,
Ann Marie Marmande President
Our Lady of the Lake Foundation
OUR LADY OF THE LAKE FOUNDATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS
Marty Engquist
Chair
Katie Cheatham
Development Chair
Marla Scannicchio
Finance Chair
William “Bill” Balhoff
Sr. Helen Cahill
Jeff Deyo, MD
Norisha Glover
Faith Hansbrough, MD
Michael Hudson
Mark Kantrow, MD
Bonnie Marcantel
Lori McBride, MD
Richard Pellerin
Kristen Pforr
Charles Andrew Smith, MD
Chris Trevino, MD
Karen Young
EMPTY NEST, FULL HEARTS: FINDING MEANING THROUGH GIVING
Witnessing the construction of Children’s Hospital ignited a desire to contribute to something meaningful within their community. As their children flew the nest, Richard and Lori Pellerin discovered a new sense of purpose and connection through their involvement with the Our Lady of the Lake Foundation, leading to a gift in support of the Emergency Department.
“We knew we had to be a part of it. The thought of helping families during their toughest times was incredibly motivating,” shares Richard, president and founder of Century.
Hosting a “Little Big Bash” during the COVID-19 pandemic was a special highlight. The Pellerins rallied their community of neighbors, friends and family to raise funds in support of Children’s Hospital. This successful event culminated in a champagne truck delivery to their celebration, showcasing not only their dedication but also their willingness to open their home for a cause they believe in.
In 2022, Richard joined the Foundation Board of Directors. In this new chapter, he embraced his role and the impact he can make as a board member, and Lori supported their shared philanthropic vision. Together they find joy in contributing to Our Lady of the Lake and its mission.
“It’s different here. Everyone we’ve encountered, it’s not just a job for them — it’s a passion, a ministry,” Richard says. “They truly embody ‘the Lake way.’”
Their generosity has influenced their three adult children, who are forging their own paths, creating a legacy of compassion. The Pellerins are catalysts for change. “We want to encourage others to join us in giving back,” Richard says. “It’s about creating a ripple effect of kindness and generosity.”
Their journey has brought immense personal fulfillment and joy, motivating them to explore new service opportunities, including funding the Richard & Lori Pellerin Athletic Training Suite at LSU. This generous contribution exemplifies the intersection of their philanthropic passions, aligning with Our Lady of the Lake and LSU, Championship Health Partners.
“There’s nothing quite like the feeling of knowing you’ve made a positive impact,” Lori reflects. “It’s a joy that keeps us going and inspires us to do more.”
Richard and Lori’s story is a testament to the power of giving and its profound impact on both donors and recipients. Their unwavering commitment is an inspiring reminder of the importance of compassion and community.
PILLARS OF SUPPORT
Philanthropy is powerful. Below are examples of the $3.3 million invested this fiscal year in programs, equipment and infrastructure at the Regional Medical Center, our Children’s Hospital and programs across the community.
OUR LADY OF THE LAKE FOUNDATION
OUR PURPOSE
We catalyze philanthropic partnerships to further the Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady’s healing ministry through investments that advance excellence in health, access to comprehensive care and quality of life.
OUR VISION
We aspire to become a leading foundation in Louisiana based on integrity, philanthropic impact, values and expertise in best practices of fundraising.
Through vigorous research and access to the latest technology, clinical protocols and trials, our patients and their health outcomes are at the forefront of our work and mission.
• Hogs for the Cause Family Support Home
• Health Care Centers in Schools telehealth equipment
• Medical Music Therapy Program instruments and staffing
We provide comprehensive programs that aid in healing and strengthening patients and their families through challenging times.
• Child Life programs and activities including equipping playrooms on each floor with toys and tools to engage and distract patients
• Palliative Care heartbeat recorders for families
• Yamaha baby grand player piano at the Regional Medical Center
OUR LADY OF THE LAKE HEALTH: INNOVATIONS IN HEALTHCARE
We push boundaries to elevate research and technology to improve health outcomes. Sepsis is the leading cause of death in hospitals, attributing to 1 in 3 hospital deaths. Through a 10-year research partnership with LSU, the introduction of a rapid sepsis test has significantly improved early detection and treatment, enhancing patient outcomes for this critical condition and allowing healthcare providers to act swiftly in lifethreatening situations.
Scan to watch sepsis patient
story
The Robotic Surgery Institute offers cutting-edge, minimally invasive surgical options to treat a broad range of conditions including various cancers, hernias, gallbladder removal and obesity. These advanced techniques not only reduce recovery times but also enhance precision in surgical interventions, leading to improved patient experiences and outcomes.
Our Lady of the Lake Heart & Vascular Institute was recognized as one of the top hospitals for vascular surgeries by Healthgrades. This accolade acknowledges hospitals that achieve superior patient outcomes in critical procedures such as abdominal aortic aneurysm repair, carotid surgery and peripheral vascular bypass surgery, reinforcing the institute’s commitment to high-quality cardiovascular care.
Educating, recruiting and retaining outstanding physicians and clinical providers ensures comprehensive care across all disciplines and specialties.
• Four Child Life Specialist positions
• American Academy of Hospice and Palliative Medicine (AAHPM) Conference
• NICU Patient Safety Conference
Through state and community-wide outreach, we provide a continuum of care — enhancing safety and wellness while increasing access to invaluable resources.
• Geaux Get Healthy Clinic
• Suicide Prevention Program
• Sickle Cell Camp patient transportation and education materials
Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute achieved reaccreditation by the National Accreditation Program for Rectal Cancer (NAPRC), a distinction it first attained three years ago as the first in Louisiana. This recognition underscores the institute’s dedication to providing exceptional rectal cancer care. Additionally, a new screening tool for endometrial cancer has been developed through a collaborative partnership among Pennington Biomedical Research Center, Our Lady of the Lake and LSU Health Sciences Center in New Orleans, further advancing cancer detection and prevention efforts.
Beyond these innovations, the hospital has expanded its community outreach programs, providing free health screenings and educational workshops, particularly focused on cancer awareness and prevention. These initiatives reflect Our Lady of the Lake Health’s unwavering dedication to enhancing the health and well-being of the community, ensuring that cutting-edge medical care and resources are accessible to all.
290 Clinical Trials OUR ANNUAL REACH
1,430,00 Inpatient and Outpatient Visits
8,150+ Team Members
26 Academic and Residency Programs
600+ Physicians and Specialists
Terri White’s
“One good thing about music is that when it hits you, you feel no pain.” – Bob Marley
THE HEALING ACT OF MUSIC
The therapeutic use of music dates back to Biblical times and was formally introduced in healthcare during World War II where nurses found it helped soldiers heal. Music therapy has been a part of Our Lady of the Lake’s mental and behavioral health units for more than three decades. Through generous support of donors, the program is expanding across our hospitals.
Music therapy has a profound effect on healing. This clinical, licensed therapy benefits people of all ages with cancer, stroke, Parkinson’s Disease, speech disorders, mood and anxiety disorders, learning and developmental disabilities, acute and chronic pain, substance abuse and many other areas. Music therapy can also significantly improve an infant’s heart rate, respiratory rate and stress level, as well as increase oral feeding volume.
Philanthropy has helped expand access by funding equipment, new staff and an internship program via our academic partnership with LSU. We have welcomed the first cohort of music therapy majors to fulfill their clinical coursework, and we are exploring research opportunities to contribute to the body of knowledge in practice.
These efforts will lead to growth in the number of music therapists at Our Lady of the Lake and across our state. Instruments and equipment have also been purchased to accommodate growth in staff and the student interns who will provide care for our patients. As our numbers expand over time, we have ambitious plans to extend our reach in Ascension, North Baton Rouge, Livingston and beyond.
HEROES IN HEALING MEMBERS
Cary and Stacie Aguillard
Phillip and Laurie Allen
Moises and Rosemary Arriaga
Tim and Nan Barfield
Denise Bradford
Jamie and Bob Burgess
Steve and Anne Carville
Jennifer and Robert Clowers
Mary Creel
Tiffany Davis and Brad Rodrigue
Kevin Dean and Maria Evangelista-Dean
David and Maria DiVincenti
Mike and Aglonie DiVincenti
John and Marty Engquist
Kayla Falcon
O’Neil Falgoust, III
Jay and Adria Fraioli
Christin Fulton
Jay and Kelly Gardner
Robert Grissom
Eric and Lindsay Guerin
Mike and Andrea Gullett
Tara and Adam Haney
Faith Hansbrough
Howard and Billie Harvill
Teddi and Tommy Hessburg
Khanh Ho
Lori McBride and James Hogberg
John and Lisa Holmes
Mike Hudson
Bonnie Hunt and Robert Maloney
Shaun and Kevin Kemmerly
Janice and Ed Lamy
E.J. and Patty Kuiper
Christine and Dariel LeBoeuf
Julie LeFebvre
J.B. Levert Family Foundation
Jesey Manyo
Ann Marie Marmande and Mike Frenzel
Charles and Mary McCowan
Therese and Chandler Miles
Greg Murphy
Richard and Brenda Netzberger
Charles and Amberly Nunez
Katie and Hollis “Bud” O’Neal
Richard and Lori Pellerin
Skip and Colleen Philips
Christi and Ellis Pierce
Jillian Ploof
Mike and Lisa Reed
Scott and Holly Richard
Marla and Dan Scannicchio
LaTina and Marvin Schaffer
Danielle Sidney
Smith Family
Chuck and Amy Spicer
Lesley and Richard Tilley
Roland and Kay Toups
Stephen and Valerie Toups
Jerry Fischer and John Turner
Richard and Linda Vath
Mary Walters
LaDonna and Troy Williams
Ronnie and SoonJa Williams
Shawn and Wade Wolkart
“Many studies show that music therapy can aid or improve a vast range of conditions including dementia, stroke, premature birth and cancer, to name just a few. Besides the clinical support, music therapy is a beautiful way to extend our mission to patients and their families. I am excited about the opportunity to grow this program across the Baton Rouge region.”
– Catherine O’Neal, MD
Chief Academic Officer, FMOLHS
In 2023, gifts from members of the Heroes in Healing giving society supported the growth of the Medical Music Therapy program. At our fall 2023 member gathering at the LSU School of Music, we shared the profound effect Music Therapy has on healing. Members engaged in activities just as a patient would.
Heroes in Healing members represent donors who, through a commitment of $1,000 or more annually to the OLOL Fund, accelerate excellence in healthcare and deepen our reach into the community.
Through membership donors receive:
• A deeper connection with our ministry
• An invitation to an annual event with Our Lady of the Lake leaders
• Their name in the Foundation’s Annual Impact Report and the website
• And quarterly leadership and impact communications
The annual Team Member Giving campaign, together with Heroes in Healing members supported the growth of the program and the purchase of a Yamaha baby grand player piano for the Regional Medical Center. Patients, families and team members regularly stop to listen to the music to calm, refuel and reset.
Team members donors supported clinical research through the purchase of a special freezer that ensures research samples meet quality standards. Additionally, iPads were purchased to allow research participants to fill out surveys with ease.
At Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, we’re not just treating injuries — we’re preventing them. Our Trauma Prevention Program has grown into one of the most impactful safety initiatives in the region since its start in 2019 and now serves over 1,500 children annually. Philanthropy enables us to reach more families through resource awareness and education on car and ATV safety, fall prevention, and many other common injuries and traumas.
One example is providing car seats and education on proper security. This year alone, more than 650 car seats have been provided to families in need, ensuring children are safer on the road. “It’s incredible seeing the gratitude from parents,” says Jennifer Gothard, trauma program manager. “They truly appreciate what we’re doing for the kids in our community.”
In Louisiana an ATV might be the first vehicle you drive, but it can also be one of the most dangerous. Through our ATV Safety Program, team members go into the community to educate families and provide equipment like helmets.
Another focus is our Fall Prevention Program. Falls are the number one trauma treated at our Children’s Hospital, and we are committed to educating children to help them make safer decisions.
Beyond injury prevention, our Trauma Prevention Program reaches deep into the community with initiatives like asthma camps, firearm safety and our the “Stop the Bleed” program — where our goal is to certify every teacher in Louisiana on how to react to this unforeseen incident. With over 788 people already trained, we’re equipping the community with the tools they need to keep children safe.
FINDING A PATH FORWARD FOR OUR TEENS
Over the last decade suicide amongst teens has steadily increased. On average, 1 in 6 high school students have contemplated suicide and suffer from suicidal thoughts and behaviors, making it the third leading cause of death among adolescents. Since 2007, suicidal rates have increased by 50%.
Through funds raised by Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) partners and programs, a $35,000 grant was awarded to Kathleen Crapanzano, MD, and her team to launch a Youth Suicide Prevention Program at the Tau Center, Our Lady of the Lake’s adolescent mental and behavioral health unit. The program includes both risk and cognitive assessment, a care plan and short-term intervention based on the Collaborative Assessment of Suicidality (CAMS) model.
The CAMS model is an evidence-based approach that focuses on the drivers of suicide causing the patient to view it as their only option. Initially, the model was developed for adults with very little data regarding the effect it would have on teens and kids. The model focuses on identifying the starting point of the patient’s struggles from a more calculated angle. Research shows that this approach better resonates with the patient, leading to an increase in positive response rate due to the nuanced treatment. The first manuscript detailing the success rate of CAMS when applied to teens was published in June 2024, making the program at our Tau Center one of the first in the country using this methodology.
The program was initially implemented as an on-call treatment for high-risk patients brought to our Children’s Hospital. Since the program began in June 2024, over 70 adolescent patients have been seen with an average of at least one visit per week. Ryan Hill, PhD, associate professor, LSU department of psychology and director of the suicide prevention research team, expressed his excitement regarding the positive feedback from patients who’ve participated in the program and looks forward to continuing to bring intentional care to the community.
A VISION OF LASTING IMPACT
For Kevin and Claire Couhig, giving is both a responsibility and a privilege. Influenced by family traditions of philanthropy and a deep respect for their community, they have focused their efforts on supporting causes that truly make a difference, with a special place in their hearts for Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital. Over the years, they have explored many avenues for making an impact, ultimately choosing a Charitable Remainder Unitrust (CRUT) to continue giving back long-term. This innovative giving vehicle not only allows them to create a tailored philanthropic strategy to support our Children’s Hospital, but it also ensures a lasting legacy that reflects their shared values and commitment to helping others.
The Couhigs view their CRUT as a unique opportunity to create both immediate and lasting impact for the causes they support. Their choice of a Unitrust is one of many ways to make a difference, and they encourage others considering planned giving to seek professional guidance. Their generous commitment is a testament to the values they hope to pass down to future generations, instilling in their family a legacy of service and transformative change.
The Foundation offers a range of planned giving options designed to empower donors to create a meaningful and lasting difference in our mission. To explore how these opportunities can align with your personal financial goals and philanthropic vision, we invite you to reach out to Eric Guerin at eric.guerin@fmolhs.org.
WHY I GIVE: BOBBY AND MARSHA YARBOROUGH
As CEO of Manda Fine Meats, Bobby Yarborough leads by example, demonstrating how personal philanthropy can create a tangible difference in the community while inspiring future generations to give back. Bobby and Marsha believe in the importance of ensuring access to cutting-edge medical care for the next generation, making their significant support of Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital’s capital campaign a natural extension. They’ve seen firsthand how innovative care transforms lives, reinforcing their passion for giving. For the Yarboroughs, giving reflects the virtues they hold dear, which have been shaped by both their family and their faith. Bobby expresses that their personal values align with those of our Franciscan Missionaries of Our Lady Sisters — a commitment to compassionate care and service. Through their gift, the Yarboroughs further exemplified this commitment by naming the stained-glass window of St. Gabriel in the St. Anthony of Padua Chapel at our Children’s Hospital.
Beyond their involvement with the hospital, Bobby and Marsha have devoted time and resources to various causes throughout the region. Their legacy is one of generosity, built on a shared commitment to fostering a brighter future for Louisiana.
“We appreciate what we have and what we can give back,” Bobby reflects. Their dedication serves as a powerful reminder that by investing in our communities, we can inspire others to do the same, nurturing a spirit of compassion and support that echoes for generations to come.
St. Gabriel the Archangel
This window portrays Gabriel, whose name means “man of God,” as the great communicator, delivering profound messages to humanity. The artist envisions Gabriel helping us grasp the impossible and embrace the miraculous. He announced the births of John the Baptist and Jesus and guarded the way to the tree of life in Eden. He is often shown with a scroll from heaven and a sun disc halo.
A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
Our Lady of the Lake Foundation’s annual The Big Bash was held on May 2. This year’s event, In the Secret Garden, had a record-breaking $1.39 million donated in support of our Children’s Hospital.
Pepper Rutland, CEO and President of MMR, our presenting sponsor, stated, “Together, we are able to contribute to transformative initiatives that enhance Louisiana’s healthcare. Together, we are making a lasting impact.”
Guests at the sold-out event were welcomed into an enchanting atmosphere — a private escape into a whimsical garden. The stunning decor, thoughtfully crafted by the dedicated Big Bash committee, elevated the experience. From the champagne hand wall to the oversized plant man on stilts — every element transformed the venue into an unforgettable, captivating experience. Committee leader Ashley Fontenot emphasized, “Every year, our creativity hits a new level, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for this amazing event.”
Over $240,000 was contributed during the paddle raise. Funds will support a range of investments including complex equipment for our trauma room, iPads to be used as a resource for physicians - allowing interactive treatment plan discussions, and “Buzzy Bugs” — arm devices to calm and distract children during procedures, making their hospital experience less stressful.
The live auction offered unique and exclusive packages to Vail, Costa Rica, California, Las Vegas and a Taylor Swift concert experience. To wrap the evening Steve Augeri, former lead vocalist of Journey, held a private concert thanks to our Entertainment Sponsor, Doyle Electric.
“We choose to support Children’s Hospital both corporately and personally because we believe in investing in the health and future of our community. It’s a commitment to ensuring that every child has access to the best possible care,” – Beau Leitner, President at Doyle Electric.
Co-hosts Brian Kelly, LSU Football Coach, and his wife, Paqui, captured the essence of the evening, “The energy in the room is unreal — it’s special when the same energy you feel in Death Valley can be felt at events like this that are making a life-saving difference for our kids.”
The Big Bash exemplifies how philanthropy can transform lives. As we look to the future, the generosity of our donors will continue to accelerate the lifesaving impact our Children’s Hospital has on families throughout the region.
CHILDREN’S HEALTH CHAMPIONS
Since 1990, Phi Mu Fraternity at LSU has been a champion for children’s health in the Greater Baton Rouge area, actively raising funds in support of our Children’s Hospital. As a partner of Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), their philanthropic initiatives have contributed to projects including the construction of our Children’s Hospital, where our MRI is named in the chapter’s honor. Additionally, their involvement with CMN helped establish the Hogs for the Cause Family Support Home on our children’s hospital campus that provides respite for families at no cost while their child is in our care.
Their signature events, Bonnamu and Man of the Year, raised over $175,000, and in fall 2023, they were honored as the leading fundraising chapter in the nation. Beyond their financial contributions, Phi Mu actively engages with our Children’s Hospital community by participating in events such as the annual Halloween Bash and overseeing playrooms that offer children a much-needed break from their treatment routines.
Over our 34-year partnership, Phi Mu has exemplified a commitment to service and community, raising over $580,000 in support of our Children’s Hospital.
THE HOUSE THAT PIGS BUILT
Standing just outside our Children’s Hospital is the Hogs for the Cause Family Support Home. Lovingly called “Hogs House,” the facility marks a significant step in fulfilling our mission of providing compassionate, comprehensive care to patients and their families. With a commitment of $2.25 million from Hogs for the Cause, a New Orleans based nonprofit, a place of respite has been built. For families who travel long distances in need of specialized care, the house offers a positive and calming environment close to their child at no cost.
BENNY’S HAUNTED CARWASH: A LITTLE FRIGHT
Benny’s Car Wash is a local, family-owned operation dedicated to supporting our community. Since 2021, Benny’s has raised over $165,000 in support of our Children’s Hospital by transforming their Siegen Lane location into a spine-tingling haunted car wash. For one weekend every October, no detail is overlooked. From the elaborate decorations to the spirited costumes, Benny’s employees provide a little Halloween fright, making their place scary in an effort to raise funds to support programs that make our Children’s Hospital a little less scary!
SCAN TO SEE INSIDE THE HOGS HOUSE
Hogs for the Cause
$2.25MM commitment made February 10, 2022
(Architectural drawings and additional fundraising begins for the $4.5MM home)
Groundbreaking Celebration
February 14, 2023
(Construction begins)
Ribbon Cutting Celebration
February 22, 2024
(Hogs House is open to families)
First family stays at the Hogs House
February 23, 2024
(As of October 5, 2024, more than 163 families have stayed at our Hogs House, where the average length of stay is 4.37 days.)
Since 2017, Shintec has donated multiple truckloads of toys at Christmas. Last year, over 750 families in our care were provided gifts, keeping holiday magic alive.
Our Lady of the Lake Cancer Institute hosted its second annual Cancer Survivor Day to honor patients, survivors, caretakers, family and friends.
The Newton & Betsy Thomas Family Center for Newborn & Infant Intensive Care hosted a reunion where, for the first time, nurses and medical staff were reunited with the children and families they cared for during their time in our surgical NICU.
Through their annual July “Giving Bear “campaign, Messengers Gifts has donated over 500 bears a year. Messengers matches each bear purchased by a customer with a donated bear. These bears are given to patients by our transport team.
Subaru of Baton Rouge continued their tradition of providing blankets and patient care kits to our Cancer Institute patients, giving love and care.
Former LSU quarterback and 2023 Heisman winner Jayden Daniels partnered with Miracle Manchester to visit our Children’s Hospital and provide iPads to patients with blood disorders, giving them a distraction during treatment.
Since 2008, the generosity of riders and donors to the Wheels to Succeed program have provided 222 adaptive bikes, allowing children with developmental delays to experience the fundamental joy of riding a bike.
Driving the Future Car Raffle raised an amazing $1.2 million in support of our Children’s Hospital.
