What we’ve achieved to date would not be possible without our most dedicated supporters, and this spring, we gathered them at our annual The Difference You Make celebration to say thank you.
This special event honored individuals who have given to Sun Health Foundation for 20, 30, even more than 40 years — people who have shaped an institution and are, as Sun Health’s Community Engagement Officer Nora Hannah remarked, “writing the next chapter of the Sun Health story.”
Guests were welcomed with champagne and a chance to peruse artifacts from a Sun Health Foundation time capsule sealed in the 1980s, including photographs of thousands of volunteers who built what are now Banner Boswell and Banner Del E. Webb medical centers from the ground up. The images were a vivid reminder that Sun Health was never a single institution’s vision. It has always been a community’s.
Erica Dorward, Chief Operating Officer of both medical centers, spoke on behalf of hundreds of medical professionals whose daily work is made possible by philanthropic support.
Dr. Chukwuemeka Enikanu Oji brought that impact into sharp focus. He shared the story of a woman in her forties diagnosed with colon cancer — uninsured, vulnerable, and in need. She received exceptional care at Banner Del E. Webb, recovered fully, and years later crossed paths with Dr. Oji again, this time with her child in tow, full of gratitude for the life she almost lost. It is a story made possible by a community whose generosity protects access to compassionate, high-quality care.
Sun Health President and CEO Joe La Rue closed out the evening by announcing the recipients of the “Spirit of Sun Health” awards – those who had just reached their 20th year of giving – and also recognized those who have been giving for well over 20 years. As he put it, “You are making vibrant living possible for thousands of people today, and for generations to come. Thank you for the difference you make.”
