2024 Gratitude Report
Your gifts made a difference
You are creating a better tomorrow for Oregon
Every person deserves access to exceptional health care.
Your generosity ensured thousands of people – of all ages, living in communities across Oregon – could receive excellent and compassionate diagnosis and treatment at Providence.
You helped physicians and researchers propel ideas into action, opened doors to clinical trials and increased health equity. You modernized technologies and built new facilities to meet the needs of today.
This is life-changing work. And we couldn’t do it without you.
Hospitals nationally are caring for larger numbers of older and sicker patients, and Providence is no exception. To solve this challenge, we are innovating care across our programs, but we cannot do this work alone. Philanthropy is more important than ever before, serving to fill the gaps.
We are delighted to share stories of how your gifts helped people across our state and how they support our Mission of caring for all, especially the most vulnerable. Our patients are truly grateful, and so are we.
With deep appreciation,
Jennifer Burrows, RN, MBA Chief Executive
Providence Oregon
Laurie Kelley SVP, Chief Philanthropy Officer
Providence Foundations of Oregon
“Your gifts have been vital at a time when health care needs philanthropy more than ever. Thank you for helping patients access exceptional care across the state.”
— Jennifer Burrows, RN, MBA, chief executive, Providence Oregon (Shown far left)
Thank you!
You care about the health of your community – and your philanthropy had a tremendous impact across the state, bringing healing, health and hope to so many neighbors and community members. These are just a few of their stories. May you draw inspiration from the individuals and families you lifted up through your support.
“Our humanity comes to its fullest bloom in giving. We become beautiful people when we give whatever we can give: a smile, a handshake, a kiss, an embrace, a word of love, a present, a part of our life … all of our life.”
— Henri Nouwen, 20th century Catholic priest, professor and theologian
Your 2024 gifts supported:
CLINICAL EXCELLENCE
Speeding research. Discovering new treatment options. Innovation and clinical trials are advancing care to help patients live longer, healthier lives.
TECHNOLOGY & TOOLS
Every moment matters. Providing access to the latest technology, advanced tools and innovative methods of treatment allows clinicians to enhance care and save lives.
FACILITIES & SPECIALIZED CARE
The demand for acute and specialized care is increasing. Building new and expanding facilities ensures greater access to exceptional care, when and where it’s needed most.
HEALTH EQUITY
Health is a human right. Removing barriers and eliminating health disparities increases equitable access to care, giving everyone the chance to live their healthiest life.
WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT
Exceptional care begins with exceptional caregivers. Investing in our workforce deepens clinical expertise and leads to greater representation, well-being and retention.
PATIENT SUPPORT & WELLNESS
Every person experiences a different health journey. Making patient-centered programs and wellness services available to everyone provides extra support when it’s needed most.
Championing clinical excellence in cancer care
Randy Ridgley, a patient at Providence Cancer Institute, participated in a phase 1 clinical trial. He was the first person in the world to receive the experimental combination of two medications, and current tests cannot find any remaining cancer. Pictured with his wife, Pat, and puppy, Lucy.
Phase 1 clinical trials drive discovery and development
Your gifts supported phase 1 cancer clinical trials, offering progress, hope and the potential for healing to patients.
Randy Ridgley was devastated to learn he had a highly aggressive form of lung cancer. At Providence Cancer Institute, he had the opportunity to enroll in a national clinical trial after standard treatments stopped working. The trial is evaluating the effectiveness of combining two experimental medicines and, in September, Randy was the first person in the world to receive this treatment.
He has had a complete response – current tests cannot find any remaining cancer. Your gifts supported the critical phase 1 clinical trial work that gave patients like Randy another lease on life. “Home run” examples of complete or significant recovery are rare, including in phase 1 trials, but each study that opens and every brave patient who takes part mark a significant step forward.
“Cancer will never have a cure without clinical trials. I want to help develop safe, practical treatments. I can assist others because even if a trial fails, something is learned.”
-- Randy Ridgley,
phase 1 clinical trial participant
You are part of the team advancing cancer research through your gifts
Donors played a vital role, funding nearly 70% of our research in 2024. Providence patients benefited greatly as scientific discoveries were made. Patients who didn’t respond to standard treatments could participate in phase 1 clinical trials offered almost nowhere else. In fact, 20% of Providence Cancer Institute patients are enrolled in state-of-the-art clinical trials – compared to a national average of 7% – giving them access to innovative therapies. The results of this research are often translated directly into patient care.
Your support allowed physician-researchers like Rachel Sanborn, M.D., medical director of both the Thoracic Oncology Program and Phase 1 Clinical Trials Program, to investigate new ideas and novel therapies. As a result, she leads one of the largest portfolios of early-phase cancer clinical trials on the West Coast.
Scientific research is moving at a very fast pace. Because of you, Providence Cancer Institute had the resources to retain leadership in the development and operation of phase 1 studies, including specially trained technicians, managers who oversaw safety and staff with specialized experience in complicated and innovative treatment delivery. Patients like Randy are profoundly grateful.
Championing clinical excellence in heart care
Howard “H” White’s leadership investment in the center that bears his name is powering innovation in cardiac amyloidosis detection and care.
Donors said, “Game on!” at new Providence heart center
Howard “H” White has cardiac amyloidosis – and he drove innovation forward to support others.
Howard “H” White developed congestive heart failure in 2017 and was diagnosed by cardiologists at Providence Heart Institute with cardiac amyloidosis –a disease in which proteins deposit in the heart, causing the muscle to thicken and stiffen. Now, when caught early, it can be treated. But at the time, symptoms for “H” were worsening, and he required a heart transplant in 2020.
Spurring change through philanthropy
“H” is famous for his sports acumen, leadership at NIKE, Inc., and role as an advisor to NBA legend Michael Jordan. He’s also helping change lives. The new center that bears his name is primarily funded through philanthropy. “H”‘s leadership gift, Michael Jordan's generous $1 million donation, gifts from sports and business leaders, and your investments are propelling advancements in care. “I believe this center will save lives and help people avoid a heart transplant. And I’m humbled and inspired by the friends who are joining in to help,” said “H.”
“We have no idea who we’re helping when we give. It’s the idea of healing, of believing there’s something in the world that’s bigger than all of us.”
-- Howard “H” White
Improving equity in cardiac care through AI
Because amyloidosis symptoms are like those of common conditions, such as high blood pressure, it is frequently misdiagnosed, diagnosed late or missed entirely. This is especially true among African Americans, who are genetically predisposed to the disease. The center aims to change that. Providence cardiologists Jenna Kay, M.D., medical director of the Howard “H” White Center, and Jacob Abraham, M.D., section head of advanced heart failure, are collaborating with other health systems to use artificial intelligence to identify patients at risk for amyloidosis who warrant further testing.
“Because of Providence’s far-reaching clinical footprint, we can apply innovative algorithms across a large amount of data. The lifesaving potential of this work is very real,” said Dr. Abraham. Dr. Kay added, “I’m inspired by our patients, the opportunity to reach more people and the generosity of donors.”
Providing state-of-the-art tools and technology
PROVIDENCE MEDFORD MEDICAL CENTER
Cancer survivor inspired to help others
Breast cancer care in Medford is greatly improved, thanks to contributions by donors like you. One local woman showed her appreciation.
After Georgie Cook underwent treatment for breast cancer, she knew what she had to do: give back. She launched Georgie’s Cancer Walk in her hometown of Eagle Point, Oregon, to raise funds for Providence Medford Medical Center and other cancer services.
“The doctors and nurses at Providence were wonderful,” said Georgie, who is cancer-free five years later. “It’s rewarding to help, and I appreciate what other donors have done to support these great services.”
She chose excellent care close to home
When Georgie initially found a lump, she turned to the Leila J. Eisenstein Breast Center at Providence in Medford, which is supported by your donations and known for its excellence in cancer care. Diagnosed with stage III breast cancer, Georgie underwent two lumpectomies performed by Tracy Haley, M.D., a surgical oncologist. “What an amazing doctor,” Georgie said of Dr. Haley. “She was there to get this taken care of.”
Your support advanced patient health and saved lives
Your philanthropy enabled Providence Medford to purchase a Trident HD system, an imaging technology that provides sharp, detailed images of breast surgeries in real time, allowing greater clinical precision and saving time under anesthesia. As Dr. Haley explained, “With the Trident, an image is generated at the bedside. I can determine whether we have the right area or if I need to remove additional tissue and perhaps avoid additional operations.”
“Every day our patients express their gratitude for this leadingedge technology that detects breast cancer earlier and saves lives," said Ryan Hutchinson, director of imaging for Providence Medford, “and for the compassionate treatment they received.”
Top: “Providence has helped so many women, including me,” said Georgie Cook.
Bottom: Tracy Haley, M.D., explained how the Trident HD system helps with cancer surgeries.
PROVIDENCE MILWAUKIE HOSPITAL
Mobile ultrasound eased the way for patients
Thanks to your donations, caregivers at Providence provided patients with real-time diagnostic images and information.
After three miscarriages, Stephanie Guitron wanted to monitor her fourth pregnancy closely. Your support enabled Stephanie’s caregiver to use a new ultrasound tool to review imaging and check that all was well – right in his office during her appointment. Sure enough, Stephanie delivered a perfectly healthy baby girl. “It was so nice to know that my baby was doing OK,” Stephanie said. “It really gave me peace of mind.”
The ultrasound tool you funded links to a secure mobile device and allows caregivers to perform tests without a separate hospital visit, explained Zhong “Bin” Chen, M.D., Stephanie’s doctor at Providence Milwaukie Hospital. “Because the images are available right away, I can share them with the patient,” Dr. Chen said.
“A mobile ultrasound allows us to use the most advanced technology for our most vulnerable populations.”
-- Zhong “Bin” Chen, M.D., physician resident in the family medicine residency program at Providence Milwaukie
Tool mobility breaks down barriers to care
Ultrasound procedures monitor more than babies. They can be crucial in diagnosing heart conditions, hypertension, fluid in the lungs and other conditions. Until now, they were only available by making an appointment with a specialty office. However, the new devices are used in regular office visits or in any clinical location or setting, even in the field.
“The mobile ultrasound improves access to care,” said Dr. Chen, explaining that in the past patients might have avoided getting the test because of barriers created by language, transportation, work or family issues. He continued, “Many patients are more comfortable having an ultrasound as part of general care.”
Stephanie Guitron cuddled her beautiful new, healthy baby.
Building and expanding facilities
A brighter health care future
Thanks to your generosity, the $144 million fundraising goal for the Tomorrow Starts Today Campaign for emergency and cardiac care is within reach.
Top: Observation stations next to patient rooms, as well as viewing windows, allow nursing teams to provide patients with continuous care.
Bottom: New nursing stations centralize resources and allow caregivers to respond more quickly to patient care needs.
Tomorrow Starts Today, the most ambitious fundraising campaign in Providence Oregon’s history, was launched in May 2024 to re-imagine emergency and cardiac care. Patient needs across the nation are outpacing resources, and Providence is no exception to these trends. Our solution needed your help. Thanks to you, our fundraising will allow us to increase hospital capacity and improve the speed of care.
“All I know of tomorrow is Providence will rise before the sun.”
-- Jean-Baptiste Henri Lacordaire, 19th century Catholic priest, theologian and political activist
ED construction nears completion at Providence St. Vincent
With $40 million in commitments raised toward our $45 million goal, patients are already seeing the benefits in the emergency department at Providence St. Vincent Medical Center. A bright and welcoming lobby greets people as they arrive. An arrival zone allows caregivers to provide immediate triage to patients. An expanded diagnostic area provides faster results. Flexible treatment rooms can quickly adjust to the age or unique needs of any patient, including behavioral health support. And, a new workstation for physicians places them within steps of patients. When construction is completed this spring, patients will have access to 84 treatment spaces instead of 58 – and faster care.
Heart institute transforms critical cardiac care
Your generosity has helped raise $52 million toward our $62 million goal, allowing construction at Providence Heart Institute to begin this spring. The institute, which treats 60,000 patients annually, is the largest provider of cardiac care in Oregon and is nationally recognized for its excellence.
Hospital administrative offices have already moved to make way for the new cardiac care hub. During the first phase of the project, a new interventional recovery unit will be constructed, helping patients prepare for and recuperate from minimally invasive cardiac procedures. In the second phase, we will build a new cardiac intensive care unit, as well as new electrophysiology and catheterization labs near our cardiac operating rooms. These changes will bring all critical heart services together on the same floor of Providence St. Vincent, allowing caregivers to respond more efficiently to patients needing the most intensive care.
Providence Portland’s emergency expansion in full swing
Thanks to your support, Providence Portland Medical Center has already reached its fundraising goal, securing $36.5 million to re-imagine emergency care. We’re grateful to the more than 600 people who donated, including 150 individuals who made their first-ever gift to Providence Portland. Your generosity is adding 27 new treatment areas, which will speed diagnoses and care. Already complete are two new nursing stations and 20 flexible care rooms, as well as an expanded stabilization and recovery area. This spring, work begins on a more private triage area, a results-pending room, an enhanced patient monitoring system and improved access control. Every change is designed to create a better patient experience.
“Our Mission calls us to ensure our ability to serve our community in the future.”
-- Jennifer Burrows, RN, MBA, chief executive, Providence Oregon
A brighter today and tomorrow for all Oregonians
Your gifts are building the facilities our city needs. With your help, we will be able to support 50,000 more patient visits annually – the equivalent of adding another emergency department to Portland. In addition, a modernized and expanded heart institute will continue to provide best-in-class care for even more people. Together, we are responding to today’s urgent needs and expanding our ability to meet the growing needs of tomorrow.
Donors, caregivers and friends gathered to celebrate the opening of the new patient entry lobby at Providence St. Vincent, which has comfortable seating and natural light.
Building and expanding facilities
PROVIDENCE CHILDREN'S DEVELOPMENT INSTITUTE
You listened so kids can hear
Clackamas County infants and children with hearing loss gained access to early assessments and pediatric audiology services close to home.
Hearing loss is the most common congenital disability. Without prompt treatment, it can lead to delays in language and speech development, learning challenges, feelings of isolation and underdeveloped social skills.
But you listened. Your gifts brought help to families who needed closer options by building a new pediatric audiology suite at Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center.
This is a vital service. Fifty percent of babies born at Providence Willamette Falls who fail their initial hearing screenings don’t return for their secondary test with a pediatric audiologist. Obstacles and hardships include lack of transportation, cost and distance to the diagnostic center.
“Our Providence audiologist was so supportive and caring! She helped us understand our son's hearing loss and the accommodations he may need. She made every visit fun for our son.”
-- Emily Wickert, Daniel’s mother
You helped remove these barriers. The new Providence Children’s Development Institute audiology suite will perform secondary diagnostics for infants, preschoolers and schoolaged children – more than 650 in the first year alone. “Many families have shared their excitement about receiving the same quality pediatric services close by,” said Patti Pieper, pediatric supervisor, Providence rehabilitation services.
Your gifts will help Clackamas County children with hearing issues develop learning, communication and social skills that will improve their physical and mental health while promoting educational and interpersonal growth – right in their own backyard.
Daniel Wickert is one of the 1,500 children who receive Providence audiology services each year. Hundreds will now be able to do so closer to home.
Planned giving: Ensuring your values live on
PROVIDENCE WILLAMETTE FALLS MEDICAL CENTER
Dolores Foglio: 45 years of caregiving and a will to keep on going
Now retired, this former caregiver continues to put patients first through her estate plans.
Dolores Foglio is a Milwaukie native with deep roots in the community, having lived in only three homes throughout her life, never more than a few miles away from a Providence hospital. And, Dolores was born at a Providence hospital.
Her connection to Providence runs even deeper. She spent her career as a nurse and then a nurse practitioner at several Providence facilities for a combined total of 45 years. Said Dolores, “I stayed because the Mission is consistent with how I feel a patient should be treated.”
“The work at Providence was in line with my beliefs. We never turned anyone away and didn’t ask about money.”
-- Dolores Foglio, former Providence caregiver and current board member, Providence Willamette Falls Medical Foundation
Bequest benefits two communities
Dolores’ service didn’t end with retirement; she is a member of the Board of Trustees for Providence Willamette Falls Medical Foundation. Her generous spirit will continue to serve her community long into the future because she initiated a bequest from her will to support both Providence Milwaukie and Providence Willamette Falls Medical foundations.
“The hospital in Milwaukie saved my dad’s life after an accident. I supported my mom every day at St. Vincent when she was fighting leukemia. I have been a cardiac patient at Providence myself,” explained Dolores. “Those experiences alone would inspire a gift to make sure the excellent work here continues. Add my employment, and it was a no-brainer!”
Dolores Foglio has spent a lifetime caring for patients at Providence. Today she serves as a Providence board member and has a charitable estate plan in place.
Reducing barriers and connecting communities to care
PROVIDENCE ST. VINCENT MEDICAL CENTER
Patients with dementia received specialized care, affirming their dignity
Your gifts launched a pilot program that improved quality of life and comfort for patients with dementia while increasing safety for caregivers.
Caring for a patient with dementia can be challenging. Your gifts to Providence St. Vincent Medical Foundation launched a pilot program that equipped caregivers with innovative approaches to caring for patients with the disease. The initiative – called See Me, Still Me – brought a better quality of life to vulnerable patients, eased the way for their families, reduced the length of hospital stays and increased staff safety.
You improved outcomes and brought comfort to people with dementia by addressing their unique needs with dignity.
You helped train caregivers to consider how the disease expresses itself within individual patients and how they can support the needs of each patient. Caregivers learned the benefit of using the patient’s preferred name, tips on finding conversation topics, and to identify anxiety and promote calm. Dementia-friendly care was also taught, including limiting the gathering of vital signs when possible because this activity can be upsetting to patients.
“Caregivers see past the diagnosis (See Me) and address behaviors triggered by impairment (Still Me).”
-- Jaymie Bryan, RN, nurse manager
Your gifts also purchased activity kits containing soft animals, baby dolls, headphones, cards and other activities designed to match each patient’s special needs. These support items brought patients peace and connection.
Families grateful for compassionate care
“The family of a recent patient was blown away by the compassion displayed for their mother, a former school educator,” said Stephen Kelson, MDiv, BCC, supervisor, pastoral services. “Though she passed away, they had wonderful things to say about the caregivers managing dementia at St. Vincent.”
PROVIDENCE BRAIN AND SPINE INSTITUTE
In-office mental health support lifted patients facing life-changing diagnoses
With your help, patients with epilepsy and seizure disorders received mental health care integrated with neurological care.
Can you imagine learning that you can no longer work? Or drive? Patients like Rohan*, who had a traumatic brain injury resulting in persistent medical issues, and patients with epilepsy or seizures often receive this life-altering news. “I ended a 30-year tech career because I could no longer comprehend my work. Without the services of my therapist, I would not have been able to manage the resulting depression,“ he said. But because of you, Rohan had access to mental health treatment and care coordination services right in his Providence neurologist’s office.
“Having a direct connection between my neurologist and therapist was very beneficial, especially when I was unable to fully articulate my evolving medical challenges.”
-- Rohan, a patient who accessed integrated behavioral health services
Rohan is not alone: More than 40,000 Oregonians have a seizure disorder. In addition to patients who face drastic changes in their lives, others live below the poverty line and have psychiatric diagnoses that need treatment. But in Oregon, there is limited access to behavioral health care for patients with lower or fixed incomes.
You took care and took action: Your gifts to Providence Brain and Spine Institute integrated mental health services into neurologic care for patients with seizure disorders. Trusted caregivers supported them. Psychological care was destigmatized, and providers shared information with each other to inform care. Behavioral health navigators connected patients to services, leading to better outcomes.
You helped Rohan – and other patients – approach the future with more support and more hope.
*Patient name has been changed to protect privacy.
Thanks to you, patients with seizure disorders received valuable behavioral health intervention in the same clinic where their medical condition was treated.
(Patient not pictured.)
Developing an exceptional workforce and advancing careers
PROVIDENCE PORTLAND MEDICAL CENTER
Residents remain after they train
Your gifts offered exceptional faculty, hands-on training and resources to newly minted physicians, preparing them well for their careers.
Antonio Cordova, M.D., is a physician at Providence Milwaukie Hospital and a Providence Portland internal medicine residency program graduate.
Your generosity helped fund faculty salaries and other aspects of the internal medicine residency program at Providence Portland Medical Center. “The medical staff is passionate about teaching and caring for residents: There’s a spirit of inquiry, which augments a commitment to excellence,” said Scott Marsal, M.D., MSc, FACP, Garnjobst Chair in Medical Education. Donors purchased critical medical instruments for a special program that trains residents to rapidly assess patients in any clinical location or setting, removing barriers to health care often faced by vulnerable patients. Your gifts also supported a pioneering wellness program that helps residents build habits of self-care to avoid burnout. “Residents have the desire to work for a place that cares about their well-being,” said Dr. Marsal.
“Supporting many different patients, including people who were unhoused or from historically marginalized groups, prepared me to respond to the needs faced by patients I care for today.”
-- Antonio Cordova, M.D., residency program graduate and physician at Providence Milwaukie Hospital
In recent years, Providence hospitals have welcomed 66% of residency program participants into service after graduation. “I knew I could get the support I need. I also knew people from my program who liked their job, and I wanted to be able to work with them again,“ said Antonio Cordova, M.D., physician at Providence Milwaukie Hospital and residency program graduate. Given the severe shortage of U.S. physicians, Providence patients reap the benefits: They receive exceptional care for every health journey, provided by compassionate, top-notch doctors steeped in the value of service.
PROVIDENCE HOOD RIVER MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
Scholarships created career growth
Because of your generosity, caregivers at Providence continued their education and furthered their skills while enhancing care for all.
As a single mom attending nursing school full time and working as a surgical technician, Sarah Dinescu must watch her money carefully just to cover the basics, such as food for her son. “I had no idea a 9-year-old could eat like a horse,” she joked. This made her incredibly grateful for the Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital Foundation scholarship she received. “It’s a huge blessing,” said Sarah, who plans to continue her career at Providence for years to come. “This takes one burden away.”
“Knowing how tight money can be makes me very thankful to donors. It’s been a huge blessing.”
-- Sarah Dinescu, caregiver scholarship recipient
For Sarah, the scholarship came at the right time. At 40 years old, she enrolled at Columbia Gorge Community College to pursue a nursing degree to advance her career. When Sarah didn’t receive financial assistance from other resources, a manager at Providence Hood River suggested she apply for the Providence scholarship. Sarah was thrilled when she was selected. “It was fantastic,” she said. “It’s a big boost for my financial health.”
Scholarships have lasting impact
Sarah exemplifies how your support makes a difference in the lives of Providence caregivers and in the health of the hospital and the community. “Caregiver scholarships help us retain top talent and provide the very best care to each person who comes through our doors,” said Jeanie Vieira, RN, chief executive, Providence Hood River. “The annual scholarships remove barriers to education and help caregivers advance their skills. For these reasons and more, we are extremely grateful to our donors.”
Sarah Dinescu, surgical technologist at Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital, was thrilled to receive a scholarship to attend nursing school.
Making compassionate support services accessible to all
PROVIDENCE NEWBERG MEDICAL CENTER
Navigators walked with cancer patients
Your gifts expanded an oncology nurse navigator program, which provides a guiding hand and support to patients during their cancer journey.
It’s hard to convey the overwhelming nature of a cancer diagnosis, as survivor Julie Donovan knows. She was grateful she had someone walking alongside her. “It was all about feeling safe, answering my questions and making the steps easy,” Julie said of Elissa Johnson, RN, OCN, an oncology nurse navigator serving at Providence Newberg Medical Center, “even though it was scary, and I didn't know what the outcome was going to be.”
Your gifts made this service possible for more patients. Providence Newberg now has the funding to support an oncology nurse navigator three days a week for the next five years, in addition to the existing full-time navigator.
“Navigators
are like compassionate travel guides and interpreters on a trip to a foreign land that patients didn’t prepare for or intend to take.”
-- Elissa
Johnson, RN, OCN, oncology nurse navigator
Cancer care has grown more effective – and more complicated. Navigators are a patient’s point person through their cancer journey. Melissa Sayyah, operations manager for Providence Cancer Institute in Newberg, notes the first step the clinic takes after receiving a referral is for the navigator to make what’s known as the “We’ve got you!” call. “To have somebody reach out, tell you the oncologist is reviewing your records and outline next steps … it’s incredibly beneficial for patients,“ she said.
Navigators explain the diagnosis, provide emotional support and assess barriers to care. They also coordinate testing and provide education about treatments such as chemotherapy. The position improves outcomes and relieves patient anxieties. Julie added, “I felt at home, even though I was at the clinic getting treatment, going through the journey. It felt like family.“
Cancer Institute in Newberg oncology nurse navigator.
Pictured left to right: Melissa Sayyah, operations manager for Providence Cancer Institute in Newberg; Julie Donovan, cancer survivor; and Elissa Johnson, RN, Providence
PROVIDENCE SEASIDE HOSPITAL
Gifts created an easier route to care
Thanks to you, Community Connections eased the way for north coast patients to travel to doctor visits, cancer treatments and more.
Stephanie Kefauver, who is living with a disability, has frequent health care appointments. She doesn’t drive and doesn’t have access to a car – and she is not alone. Seaside has a largerthan-average number of residents who are 65 or older, many of whom have health issues but no access to transportation. Not being able to get to a provider can delay important care.
Your generosity drove access to care in 2024. Your gifts allowed Providence Seaside Hospital to expand Community Connections, a program that transports people of all ages in Clatsop County to and from medical appointments in both the county and in Portland. Now the program has two new cars and three drivers, increasing the number of rides given by 50%.
More than a ride: A chance for conversation
“If it weren't for Community Connections, I'm not sure where I would be. I see the drivers frequently, and they are like family,” said Stephanie. ”We have intelligent conversations. And, they're caring. They don’t just drop me off. They make sure I'm OK.”
Steve Squier, a military veteran who was hired as a driver in July, feels the connection, too. “I meet a lot of interesting people,” said Steve. “As drivers, we find out how people are doing, ask about their day. They often tell us about issues they're having, which can allow us to connect them with folks who might be able to help.“
Improved outcomes for north coast residents
Community Connections is flexible, free and available to patients who meet certain financial qualifications even if the patient is not going to Providence or is not on Medicaid. Because of you, patients like Stephanie can get the care they need.
”I feel like I’m giving back to the community by helping people,” said Steve. “People are so grateful for what we do.”
Like family: Steve Squier, a driver for Community Connections, is pictured with community member Stephanie Kefauver.
People of Providence
A visionary leader retires
Walter J. Urba, M.D., Ph.D., championed the development of immunotherapy as a cancer therapy alongside traditional chemotherapy, surgery and radiation.
Walter J. Urba, M.D., Ph.D., led the institute, recruited physicians and researchers, and created a world-renowned center for cancer research and care.
A transformational leader, Walter J. Urba, M.D., Ph.D., retired from Providence Cancer Institute in December after 31 years. During his tenure, the evolution of the field and the growth of the institute were truly remarkable.
When Dr. Urba joined Providence in 1993, cancer immunotherapy was in its infancy. With the support of visionary leaders and donors, he established a research program and recruited scientists and physicians who shared his belief that the immune system had the potential to destroy cancer.
“In my parents, mentors, Providence and donors, I found support to pursue my belief in the potential of the immune system to eradicate cancer. In colleagues and patients, I found inspiration to keep working toward better outcomes.”
-- Walter J. Urba, M.D., Ph.D.
Providence Cancer Institute contributed to the first FDA approvals for checkpoint immunotherapy and cellular therapy for solid cancers. It is recognized around the world for leadership in precision immuno-oncology. Dr. Urba’s vision has been realized: Immunotherapy is now a mainstream cancer therapy.
His leadership at Providence Cancer Institute spurred significant scientific, medical and technological advancements in cancer research and treatment. As a result, thousands of grateful patients benefit from new therapies and trials, have new hope and enjoy additional time with families and loved ones.
Bryan Bell, M.D., D.D.S., FACS, FRCS(Ed), Dr. Urba’s successor, said, “Walter led us on a tremendous journey over the last 30 years, and we're committed to continuing our research and delivering the next generation of therapies for the benefit of all.”
Remembering a community advocate
Mark Kralj measured his success by the time he spent volunteering. He served on more than 20 boards and committees, including at Providence.
Mark Kralj had a robust career at Ferguson Wellman Capital Management dedicated to helping clients and spending time with colleagues. His commitment to others didn't end there. A passionate advocate for families, he spent countless hours giving his time, especially to groups that invested in the care of young people of all abilities. He passed away suddenly in 2024, leaving a legacy of compassion, kindness and generosity.
Mark often spoke of how he considered service to others his calling. “I was blessed, and not everyone has that. But I don’t feel like I’m ‘giving back,’” he said. “Instead, I’m giving of myself. We all have a responsibility to help our community.”
Mark’s generosity will be remembered for generations
Mark’s relationship with Providence began more than 30 years ago when he served on Providence St. Vincent Medical Foundation’s Council of Trustees. In 2009, he found his true passion: advocating for medically fragile children and those with special health care needs. As a member of the Providence Child Center Foundation Board, he reflected, “Kids are not our future – we ’re their future.” He was a tireless champion and volunteer, ensuring the most vulnerable received the attention, dignity and care they deserved. In 2022, Mark joined Providence Portland Medical Foundation’s Board of Directors, actively supporting the emergency department expansion.
Those who knew him remember Mark as one of the kindest, most selfless and hardworking individuals they ever met. His passion for serving patients was unmatched. A longtime Providence donor, he left an estate gift that established the Mark Kralj Fund, which will support Providence Swindells Resource Center. Mark’s generous spirit lives on through his family, colleagues and friends, both here at Providence and across Oregon.
The late Mark Kralj always brought joy to others. He’s pictured at the June 2024 Blessing of the Hands for Providence Portland’s emergency department construction kick-off.
Providence Foundations of Oregon
You generously gave
in 2024 by fund
Thank you for supporting exceptional health care!
Your gifts championed clinical excellence, supplied the latest in tools and technology and built new facilities and care spaces. You removed barriers to care, funded caregiver scholarships and provided patient wellness programs and support services –all delivered with compassion. You eased the way for every health journey, transforming lives at every stage and every age.
Total dollars contributed in 2024 by fund
Providence
Providence
Total dollars contributed in 2024 by fund
Providence Seaside Hospital Foundation
Providence Willamette Falls Medical Foundation
