2021 Charitable Impact Report • 11
Fund assists Tucson breast cancer patients A breast cancer diagnosis brings a range of emotions—fear of treatment and surgery and worry about one’s future chief among them. For many, the cost of treatment and ongoing medical care adds yet another level of stress. Thanks to charitable gifts from the Rockefeller Foundation and a group of Tucson cyclists, qualifying patients at the University of Arizona Cancer Center now have a source of financial assistance. A new Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund was created at the UA Cancer Center, supporting patients with financial need with costs such as diagnostic imaging, transportation to and from appointments, and supportive therapies and needs including counseling, oncology massage, acupuncture, wigs, and prosthetic supplies. Tucson Riders 4 the Cure is a group of local residents who have been riding in the El Tour de Tucson annual cycling event to raise funds for breast cancer for the past 11 years. In 2021, Nurse Practitioner Robin Giles organized the group of 20 riders to support the Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund at the UA Cancer
Dementia specialist treats husband and wife with compassion and skill Living in another state and with both parents struggling to find the right care for their Alzheimer’s and dementia related symptoms, a couple’s adult daughter was grateful that their path led to Allan Anderson, MD, a dementia care expert and Director of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute Tucson. To show her gratitude, she made a charitable gift of $10,000 through the Banner Health Hero program to honor Dr. Anderson. Describing Dr. Anderson as “attentive and warm” with her parents, she was pleased that he could treat both of them while also making a personal connection. “My approach is based on empowerment. People can reach their greatest potential
Center. “Many of our riders are breast cancer survivors or have spouses or family members who are,” says Giles, whose husband is a 21-year survivor of male breast cancer. “We were thrilled to partner with the Banner Health Foundation,” Giles adds. Together, through sponsorships and individual fundraising, the group raised more than $30,000 for the Breast Cancer Patient Assistance Fund to assist patients with the cost of diagnostic imaging.
Breast cancer survivor Robin Wineinger and her husband, Kurt, are both longtime members of the Tucson Riders 4 the Cure.
if they are empowered. I value the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute approach to care, which includes the patient, their family and the greater community,” says Dr. Anderson. Through the Banner Health Foundation, patients, family members and friends can pay tribute to the doctors, nurses and other health care professionals who made an impact during their loved ones’ experience at Banner facilities. To honor a care giver, visit www.bannerhealth.com/hero.
Q&A with Jeremy Sharpe,
Banner Health Foundation Board Member > Jeremy is leading the campaign to build a Play Zone for children hospitalized at Diamond Children’s Medical Center Q. Of all of the nonprofits you might serve, what drew you to the Banner Health Foundation board of directors? A. Having experienced the importance of quality health care and patient experience, I’m excited to have a greater impact in Southern Arizona and the Banner network. I appreciate the passion the Foundation staff and board have for the work we do. That passion leads to extraordinary results. Q. What interests you about creating a Play Zone for hospitalized kids at Diamond Children’s Medical Center? A. The Play Zone will give children a chance to escape the weight of navigating the medical world. It offers them time to be carefree for a moment—to play, to learn, and to express themselves. We are so thrilled to support this effort as a family to bring the Play Zone to life. Q. You now oversee operations for your family’s multigenerational real estate and development company and the master planned community, Rancho Sahuarita. How have your parents influenced you throughout your life and career? A. My parents have always shared the importance of kindness and respecting others. My mom would always say, “open your heart.” My late father lived by Dale Carnegie principles and shared his books with me at a young age. My dad stressed respecting, listening, and getting to know others. As he battled cancer, his motto became “Today is a Good Day,” a reminder to appreciate and cherish each moment. Each morning, I start my day uttering those simple words.
