Surprise, Ariz. (March 7, 2023) – On Saturday, March 4, Sun Health Foundation’s “A Night Under the Stars” was truly a night to remember for the more than 240 guests in attendance. The evening was a celebration of healthcare milestones and generations of generosity, and a surprising announcement. The four-year, $48 million Generosity for Generations Campaign not only has met the goal but also exceeded it – at an astounding $52 million that provides exciting new advancements in healthcare and wellness.
Celebrating Sun Health’s legacy of caring and innovation, the event took place on the very spot where superior healthcare for the West Valley began almost 55 years ago, on the campus of Banner Boswell Medical Center – outdoors under the stars.
The light-filled, festive, star-studded evening included sharing stories of impact, colorful entertainment, and dancing. Community and healthcare leaders took the stage to express gratitude and honor generations of generosity.
“This truly was a spectacular evening of celebration and storytelling that illuminates the impact of the community’s generosity for life-saving advancements in healthcare,” says Joan Smith, Chair, Sun Health Foundation Board of Trustees, who provided the evening’s welcome.
The announcement was followed by Birt Kellam, Chair of the Generosity for Generations Campaign, who underscored the impact of community contributions that have funded not one but six major areas of healthcare and wellness.
They include:
- A reimagined emergency department at Banner Boswell,
- More accurate diagnoses for lung cancer at Banner MD Anderson Cancer at Banner Boswell,
- State-of-the-art breast cancer imaging and treatment at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center,
- Expanded care for women at the Louisa Kellam Center for Women’s Health at Banner Del E. Webb,
- A new level of comfort for orthopedics diagnoses at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center,
- Continued expansion of a West Valley signature: Sun Health Wellness
“Over the past 55 years, contributions have totaled an astounding $500 million. That’s half a billion dollars – a testament to the legacy of caring and innovation in this community,” Mr. Kellam added.
Emcee Todd Hornback, Immediate past Chair of Sun Health Foundation Board of Trustees, highlighted the impact of generosity on orthopedic care, women’s healthcare, and breast health at Banner Del E. Webb Medical Center, and on Sun Health Wellness life-enhancing programs and services.
Dr. Rajeev Kathuria, Chief of Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery at Banner Boswell Medical Center, spoke about the impact of generosity on creating a uniquely special medical oasis with care that is truly superior.
Dr. Kathuria said, “Today, Banner Boswell is award winning in the innovative cardiac care provided. This is the result of the generosity of the community that has made available the advanced technology and facilities medical teams need to deliver outstanding care.”
Brian Standage, former Chief Operating Officer at Banner Bowell and now CEO Banner Health Urgent Care & Retail Services – Ambulatory; spoke about the impact of generosity on making possible Banner Boswell’s new Emergency Department that’s transforming care and service.
Joe La Rue, CEO of Sun Health, and Gina W. Ore, Chief Philanthropy Officer of Sun Health Foundation, honored donors and others in the village of people it takes to achieve such milestones.
“Charitable giving takes trust of the highest order,” says Ms. Ore. “Thank you to our community for entrusting us with your philanthropic support. Your future. Your belief in tomorrow. The future of healthcare is indeed here today because of the stars in our community that shine brighter than any in the night sky.”
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Thank you to our sponsors:
Banner Health, Belmontez Construction, CDW, Morrison Living, OSM, Orcutt Winslow, and Zion & Zion
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