Barrow magazine, Volume 28, Issue 1, 2016

A magazine for the friends of Barrow Neurological Foundation, supporting Barrow Neurological Institute

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Vol. 28, Iss. 1, 2016

barrow

Aggressively seeking cures

Ivy gift fast-tracks brain cancer research at Barrow

Alzheimer’s Disease:

How Barrow is looking to prevent, treat and cure this national epidemic

barrow

It was through the generosity of Charles Barrow that Barrow Neurological Institute opened in 1962.

And it is through ongoing support from donors that it has continued to grow into a world-renowned neurological institution.

Barrow Neurological Foundation raises awareness and funding for patient care, medical education, community outreach and research offered at Barrow, an internationally-recognized leader in neurology, neurosurgery and neuroscience research.

Barrow, part of Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, treats patients with a wide range of conditions, including brain and spinal tumors, concussion and brain and spinal traumas, neuromuscular diseases, stroke, cleft and craniofacial disorders, and cerebrovascular disorders.

It is home to several centers of excellence, including the Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center, Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center and Gregory W. Fulton ALS and Neuromuscular Disease Center.

A magazine for the friends of Barrow Neurological Foundation, supporting Barrow Neurological Institute

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Vol. 28, Issue 1, 2016

Barrow Neurological Foundation

Contents

Every Gift Matters: Inspiring stories of support

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When Memory Fails: How Barrow is preparing for the growing Alzheimer’s disease epidemic

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Women’s Board achieves new fundraising milestone

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Ivy Foundation fast-tracks brain cancer research at Barrow

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43rd Annual Lou Grubb Friends Fore Golf & Gala

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Celebrity Fight Night stars shine brightest in the Southwest

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The Rob and Melani Walton Outpatient Neuro-Rehabilitation Gym

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Joe Niekro Foundation™ gives grant and award to Joseph Zabramski, MD

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The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation deepens commitment to Barrow

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Why I Give Natalie Fricke’s family reflects gratitude for lifesaving care through legacy giving

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Employees band together to give extra boost to Barrow

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Dr. Spetzler showcased by media near and far

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We welcome your comments, suggestions and requests to be added to or deleted from our mailing list. Call 602.406.1024, email Christina.Vanoverbeke@dignityhealth.org or mail to Barrow, Office of Philanthropy, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, 350 W. Thomas Rd., Phoenix, AZ 85013.

Please include your name, address, email address and phone number in all correspondence. Visit us online at SupportBarrow.org.

On our cover: Catherine Ivy funds aggressive scientific research at Barrow seeking to discover new treatments to defeat brain tumors while extending the lives of patients diagnosed with them.

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Editor-in-Chief: Christina Vanoverbeke Christina.Vanoverbeke@dignityhealth. org Editors: Drew Whitney and Alison Huebner Art director/designer: Justin Detwiler Contributing writers: Carmelle Malkovich Printer: Panoramic Press

Photography: Brad Armstrong, Gary Armstrong, Michael Eimer, Drew Whitney, Alison Huebner, Jim Boomer, Jeff Noble Robert F. Spetzler, MD President and CEO Barrow Neurological Institute®

Every Gift Matters Inspiring stories of support

Barrow concussion education expands across Arizona and to San Francisco

Bret Michaels pays visit to Barrow patients Barrow Neurological Institute friend and supporter Bret Michaels graciously visited patients in early May to help lift their spirits with words of encouragement.

The singer-songwriter, who was launched into rock ‘n’ roll stardom as the lead vocalist for the band Poison, recently visited Quinn Ross, 18, a huge Bret Michaels fan, who was treated at Barrow for a spinal cord injury.

A former patient himself, Bret received lifesaving care at Barrow in 2010 after suffering a type of stroke known as a subarachnoid hemorrhage, which causes bleeding around the base of the brain. Bret visited Quinn and his family in the Bret Michaels Hospitality Room on the St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center campus, made possible through the generous support of the musician to Barrow Neurological Foundation.

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Barrow Brainbook, a pioneering concussion education program created at Barrow through support of donors, was adopted by four San Francisco Bay Area high schools in the run-up to Super Bowl 50 in Santa Clara, Calif. The initiative comes amid rising concerns over concussions at all levels of football and confirms Arizona’s position as the national leader in concussion education.

“We’re thrilled to expand this program to the Bay Area,” said Javier Cárdenas, MD, director of the Barrow Concussion and Brain Injury Center. “Concussions are always serious and 90 percent of them are difficult to spot because they don’t result in a loss of consciousness.”

Barrow Brainbook is the first mandatory education module for high school athletes in the country.

The online interactive tool takes students through a series of educational activities and videos about concussions. At the end of the education module, they are required to pass a formal exam before being cleared to play sports.

For the safety of student athletes, Dr. Cárdenas hopes the program goes nationwide. “It’s important for student athletes, coaches, trainers and parents to be fluent in the symptoms of a concussion so that they can seek the important medical attention needed,” he said.

ASA board members donate $10,000 to Barrow to provide medical care and social services to victims of domestic violence diagnosed with brain injuries.

Left to right: Ashley Bridwell, MSW, Barrow; Susan Vucichevich, ASA board member and event coordinator; Ned Saban, ASA board member, chair and founder; Javier Cárdenas, MD, Barrow; Mitchell Malkovich, ASA president.

American Slavic Association supports care for domestic violence victims The Phoenix chapter of the American Slavic Association (ASA) recently made a gift of $10,000 to Barrow Neurological Foundation in support of a pioneering treatment program for homeless women who have sustained a traumatic brain injury (TBI) as a result of domestic violence. The Barrow Concussion and Brain Injury Center created the novel program after identifying a link between homelessness, domestic violence and TBI. The ASA is a social organization devoted to helping others and pro-

moting awareness and education of social issues affecting the community.

The local chapter voted unanimously to make a gift to Barrow after hearing about the services the center provides to disenfranchised women.

“We are thrilled to donate to this program,” said Susan Vucichevich, board member and event coordinator of the ASA. “We are excited to be a part of this program in a small way and know that women will benefit from the help they receive.”

Since it was formed in 2013, the Bar-

row program has evaluated and treated more than 300 women suffering from TBI. Potential patients are referred by homeless shelters in the Phoenix area after completing an evaluation used to detect possible brain injury.

At Barrow, Javier Cárdenas, MD, and a professional team provide the women with comprehensive medical care that includes diagnostic services, physical therapy, neuropsychology, social work, speech therapy, surgery and injury prevention education.

For Love of Molly gift benefits AVM research In 2006, Molly Frost was rushed to a hospital near her home in Virginia after experiencing an excruciating, persistent headache. Within a few hours, she was diagnosed with an arteriovenous malformation (AVM), an abnormal tangle of veins and arteries in her brain that could rupture at any time and potentially take her life. Unfortunately, the diagnosis was far from a cure.

Over the next eight years, Molly suffered three brain bleeds and underwent several forms of treatment. Doctors avoided surgery, because of the AVM’s location in her brain, and the risks involved in removing it. But for Molly and her family, living with an AVM “There is no way I can possibly thank Dr. Spetzler enough for giving my was terrifying.

Finally, in July 2014, Molly was referred to daughter back to me. It is a gift that simply cannot be quantified.” ~ Ann Barrow Neurological Institute, where Robert Belk (center), with daughters Molly Frost (right), AVM survivor, and Clair Spetlzer, MD, removed the AVM without any McDow (left). major complications. Three days after surgery, she walked out of Barrow, thankful for the opportunity to begin her life anew.

The For Love of Molly foundation was established by friends and family, inspired by Molly’s courage and her determination to help others diagnosed with brain malformations. The foundation has raised more than $200,000 for research, including a donation to Barrow to support a clinical trial targeting new surgical treatments for AVMs.

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Arizonans ditch wheelchairs for high-speed racing

Craniofacial patient fundraises for Barrow through standup comedy Knowing laughter is the best medicine, Rich Prange treats people to a good dose of humor on a daily basis. He’s also using it to raise money for others confronted with challenges similar to his own.

Rich was born with Jackson Weiss Syndrome, a rare condition that causes head and face abnormalities. Throughout his childhood, he underwent nearly 20 reconstructive surgeries, which have affected his hearing and vision. Yet, he doesn’t let disabilities hold him back: Rich is an accomplished, award-winning 12 News photojournalist who has a vivid alter ego as an improvisational comedian.

Joking about his condition and experiences publicly, Rich aims to give kids dealing with craniofacial issues—and their parents—hope for a better future.

“Socially, growing up was never easy,” he said. “I was often prejudged as intellectually slow or disabled.”

While preparing for what would hopefully be the last of his reconstructive procedures, Rich used his act at the Comedy Spot in Scottsdale to support the Barrow Cleft and Craniofacial Center. In addition to raising money for the cause, he hopes to lift spirits.

“You have to find light in the darkness,” he said.

Barrow Neurological Institute and the famed Bob Bondurant School of High Performance Driving joined together to give dozens of individuals—many with disabilities—the thrill of a lifetime during the annual Driving to Excel event.

Participants had the opportunity to ride alongside professional Bondurant drivers as they took laps around Chandler’s Firebird International Raceway at

speeds reaching 110 mph. Proceeds from the event benefit Barrow Connection, a donor-supported program that provides fun and unique adaptive creative programs for people with physical and/ or neurological disabilities. Featured appearances included two professional racecar drivers, George Hammel and Eddie Alexander.

Barrow Connection opens doors

to opportunities for people living with a wide variety of disabilities, providing peer mentors, support groups and numerous recreational-sports programs.

Hospital inpatients, outpatients and those living in the community are invited to participate in annual events, including Day on the Lake and Driving to Excel, and other adaptive sporting events organized by affiliated organizations.

Valley businessman trekking Arizona Trail to raise money for brain cancer Two years ago, Chip Tolleson’s longtime friend Pete Kuehner was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Not knowing what the fate of his friend would be, Chip wanted to raise money to support research at Barrow Neurological Institute to benefit Pete’s care. And he wanted to do it through an activity he and Pete have enjoyed together—hiking. So he decided to hike the Arizona Trail.

Although Chip couldn’t afford leaving his full-time career of running

Sarah Shehadi (second from right) and Riley Callen (center) organized the Be Brave Hike-A-Thon in Vermont to raise awareness and money for benign brain tumor research.

Two Vermont women invite people of all ages to Be Brave Ten years of age separate Riley Callen, 13, and Sarah Shehadi, 23, but multiple coincidences have pulled them together—including diagnoses of non-cancerous, life-changing brain tumors.

The two young woman were both originally from Chatham, N.J., but moved with their families to southern Vermont. They first met when Sarah babysat for the Callen family. Sarah was diagnosed with a rare benign brainstem tumor in 2009. Riley received diagnosis of a rare vascular brainstem tumor,

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Barrow Magazine 2016, Issue 1

known as a cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM), two years later.

Both woman have undergone craniotomy surgeries and suffered permanent neurological damage. Despite their challenges, they are determined to live normal, happy and active lives. Last summer they founded the Be Brave nonprofit foundation to raise money for benign brain tumor awareness and research.

And in the fall, they organized their first Hike-A-Thon, which earned $80,000 for the cause. The amount was split evenly

and donated to Boston Children’s Hospital, where Sarah had her surgeries, and Barrow Neurological Institute, where Robert Spetzler, MD, removed Riley’s tumor in November 2014.

Be Brave monies designated to Barrow are supporting a clinical trial led by Joseph Zabramski, MD, to test the efficacy and safety of using an oral medication as an alternative approach to treating CCMs.

outdoor-advertising companies to hike nonstop, he knew he could tackle the 800 miles (stretching from Mexico to Utah) in shorter segments—with the goal of completing the entire length by the end of 2016.

Chip knocked off more than 400 miles in 2015 and continues to hike 8to 34-mile sections every weekend and holiday that his schedule permits. His efforts have raised hundreds to support Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center, where scientists are seeking innovative ways to treat brain cancer through laboratory research and clinical trials.

To support Chip’s Arizona Trail Project and lifesaving brain tumor research at Barrow, visitSupportBarrow.org/news/ArizonaTrailProject.

His progress is also followed on the Foundations of St. Joseph’s Facebook page.

Chip Tolleson takes shelter in his tent during one of the many nights he is spending on his Arizona Trail Project, a hiking adventure he undertook to raise money for brain cancer research to benefit the care his friend receives at Barrow.

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Day on the Lake turns 20!

Hundreds of volunteers and dozens of people with physical and neurological disabilities are celebrating the 20th anniversary of Barrow Neurological Institute’s “Day on the Lake” throughout the summer of ’16. The event, hosted at Bartlett Lake Marina, is organized by the Barrow Connection outreach program to help post-injury survivors participate in adapted watersport activities such as waterskiing, wakeboarding, tubing, jet

skiing, kayaking, boating and fishing. “It was a natural fit for me because I know what a lot of the participants go through on a daily basis,” said Bryan Church, marina owner and fellow wheelchair-user who has been supporting the event from year one. “Seeing the smiles makes it more than worthwhile.” Dates for 2016 include May 19–21, June 10 and 17, and September 9–10. For information or to register, call 602.406.6280.

In addition to funding the Wonder education program, the Inzalaco family generously supported the 2016 Annual Bear Picnic, drawing more than 200 partygoers for cupcakes, gummy bears, face painting and outdoor games at a Phoenix park on a beautiful spring day. The event was originally founded several years ago by Nicole Gould to celebrate her daughter’s birthday.

Outreach program educates youth about craniofacial disorders The Barrow Cleft and Craniofacial Center and Inzalaco Family Outreach Program is teaching local public school students about craniofacial disorders with the help of longtime patient Sarah Woolworth and R.C. Palacio’s bestselling novel, “Wonder.”

Born with Treacher Collins syndrome, which affects the development of facial bones and tissues, Sarah, 20, was often subjected to classmates’ stares and criticisms while growing up. But, as

she tells students participating in a new Barrow education program, she learned to rise above the judgement of others, embracing her differences.

Sarah recently shared her experiences with fifth graders at Madison Elementary School in Phoenix. Before Sarah’s visit, students had read Palacio’s book, depicting the life of a boy with a craniofacial syndrome entering public school for the first time in fifth grade.

The Inzalaco Family Outreach Edu-

cation Program is made possible through support from the Inzalacos, who also generously funded an extensive renovation of the Barrow Cleft and Craniofacial Center.

“Through this and other outreach programs, we hope students meeting people with a craniofacial difference will treat them just like anybody else,” said Lori Takeuchi, program coordinator at Barrow.

Barrow Beyond targets expanding stroke program for 2016 Members of the philanthropic group Barrow Beyond gathered for an Evening of Education and Collaboration, mingling with friends while learning

about research, education and advancing patient care at Barrow Neurological Institute. In keeping with tradition, attendees of the spring celebration were

Barrow Beyond members (left to right) Mara Kotansky, Debbie Shafron, Lisa Geyser, Shannon Mishkin and Sharon Pollack present a check to Barrow President and CEO Robert Spetzler, MD, to support expansion of the institute’s stroke program.

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asked to select a funding focus for the coming year at Barrow, choosing from the Stroke Program Expansion and Emergency Transport Unit, the Neurosurgical Residency Program and Medical Education, or ALS Research and Treatment. After the ballots were tabulated, $50,000 was raised to support expansion of the stroke program. Members have raised and donated $210,000 to Barrow since the group was founded four years ago. Last year, Barrow Beyond designated $50,000 to support Alzheimer’s research led by Elliott Mufson, PhD, at Barrow.

Barrow launches unique study on aging and autism Researchers at Barrow are conducting a unique study believed to be among the first ever regarding the impact of autism on the elderly. The research is being led by Leslie Baxter, PhD, a nationally recognized expert in the use of functional MRIs—brain imaging that monitors brain activity via blood flow.

The study is partially funded by a grant from the U.S. Department of Defense in recognition of the critical need to address cognitive challenges faced by those with autism. The longterm goal is to determine what medications and social services might benefit older patients with autism, as well as to help decision makers understand the needs of the aging autistic community.

Barrow trauma program receives national honors The Neurotrauma Program at Barrow Neurological Institute has been awarded The Joint Commission Disease-Specific Care Certification for Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Injury, making it the only acute care facility in the United States to earn both certifications.

The certification process took more than three years and involved two 24-hour site visits by The Joint Commission, an independent, nonprofit organization that accredits and certifies healthcare organizations and programs in the country.

“St. Joseph’s Hospital and Barrow Neurological Institute have thoroughly demonstrated a high level of care for patients with traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries,” said Wendi J. Roberts, RN, executive director of certification programs for the commission. “We commend them for providing a higher standard of service for patients in the community.”

“If patients are unfortunate enough to sustain one of these injuries,” said Neurotrauma Program Coordinator Gary Smith, “they know the treatment they are going to get here is cutting edge.”

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Geeky Giving—good for sci-fi readers and Barrow Marrying giving back and geekiness, a new charity called Geeky Giving is enticing readers of science fiction and fantasy to take a bite of juicy new, exclusive short works of fiction—all for the benefit of Barrow Neurological Institute.

For as little as a $5 donation, subscribers receive four digital stories or novellas by contributing writers, including A.C. Wise, Amanda Bonilla, Edward Ashton, Michael J. Martinez, Shaun David Hutchinson and dozens more. Bonus points to enter and win other prize packages—featuring autographed books, boxed sets and passes to conventions—are earned for each donation or by simply helping to spread the good word about Barrow and Geeky Giving.

All monies raised are donated to support research at the institute to aid in the discovery of new, more effective forms of treating neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, ALS, traumatic brain injuries, Alzheimer’s disease and brain tumors.

Chelsea Mueller, co-chair of Geeky Giving, knows all too well the importance of supporting this cause after losing her own father to brain cancer in 2012. “Fiction has the power to spark new ideas and let us escape,” she said. “Science fiction and fantasy stories allow Geeky Giving’s readers to learn more about the advances in neuroscience, read excellent fiction, and help save lives with a single donation.”

More information about stories, sweepstakes and how to get involved is available at GeekyGiving.org

Valley teens raise funds for brain tumor research Barrow Neurological Institute surgeons educated a special audience on President’s Day—dozens of Arizona teenagers representing Students Supporting Brain Tumor Research (SSBTR). The high schoolers attended this education event as they began their final countdown for this year’s record-setting charity event, the annual SSBTR Walk-a-Thon, hosted at Saguaro High School, February 27.

SSBTR was founded in 2002 by teacher Steve Glassman and a handful of high school volunteers shortly after three students in the district passed away from brain tumors.

The group’s first walk raised $7,500 with the help of students from four schools. Since then, it has grown into a highly successful nonprofit, supported by dozens of schools throughout the state that have helped raise more than $2 million to support research at Barrow and other related organizations.

“We invite the group to Barrow every year as a reward for all their hard work,” said Barrow brain-tumor researcher Adrienne Scheck, PhD. “This way they get a better understanding of what the money supports and how it can save lives.”

The 15th Annual SSBTR Walk-a-Thon drew thousands of participants, representing schools from across the state. Immediately following the event, walkers enjoyed free food, live music, bouncy houses and massages, provided by sponsoring organizations. Money was raised through registration fees, sponsorships and 200 silent auction items.

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Wellness coach inspires others, raises money for spine research and treatment

Stride 4 Spines returned to Scottsdale for the second year, January 23, challenging athletes of all abilities to compete in a 10K/5K and Kids’ Dash. The event is organized by Cristin Van Driel, a running coach and wellness consultant who knows personally what it means to take life’s challenges in stride.

Sixteen years ago, as a competitive athlete, Cristin was sidelined from every sport she loved when a young driver lost control of his car and crashed into her on a training bike ride. The horrific accident left Cristin with multiple spine fractures,

cracked ribs and a traumatic brain injury. During recovery, her doctors in Wisconsin prepared her for the worst, telling her she may spend the rest of her life as a paraplegic.

But instead of giving up, Cristin fought desperately to regain strength to walk and run again, which she succeeded in doing—one stride at a time.

The journey has been long, with major setbacks, including advice from doctors in the Midwest that she should give up running forever because it was too much for her spine to bear. In a search to find a doctor who could turn that prognosis around, Cristin landed in the office of

Randall Porter, MD, neurosurgeon at Barrow Neurological Institute, in 2010.

After several surgeries and intensive rehabilitation, Cristin resumed running and biking, competing in marathons and triathlons. Stride 4 Spines was established to inspire others to exercise and raise money for neurological research and treatment at Barrow. “For me, it is a way to give back to Barrow, and say thanks to Dr. Porter for giving me back the life I want to live,” she said.

Southwest Airlines grants complementary tickets for Barrow patients Barrow Neurological Foundation has been awarded a Southwest Airlines Medical Transportation Grant for 2016. Nonprofit hospitals selected to receive the annual grant can provide return transportation on Southwest Airlines for financially strained patients and family members needing specialized medical care.

Southwest has awarded $19.6 million in free transportation to organizations in 26 states since 2007. Barrow

Neurological Foundation is one of 73 nonprofits to benefit from the $3.2 million awarded in free transportation this year. Grant recipients must offer services for military members, disaster response, environmental preservation or families facing serious illnesses.

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When Memory Fails:

How Barrow is preparing for the growing Alzheimer’s disease epidemic

A day in the life: Marwan Sabbagh, MD, conducts a movement analysis with patient Claude Hubler (top), and consults with Nicole Bahu and her mother, Julie Giumetti (left).

n Marwan Sabbagh, MD, knows he’s up against some staggering statistics when it comes to Alzheimer’s disease: Millions of Americans affected. One in eight baby boomers diagnosed by 2050. A top-10 cause of death.

But Dr. Sabbagh says he came to Barrow Neurological Institute, as its new director of the Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Disorders Program, to meet the challenge and to pour new energy into preventing and slowing this devastating disease.

“I’m thrilled to join Barrow, which is a world-class destination for renowned neurological treatment,” he says. “Alzheimer’s disease is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States, and my goal is to develop new treatments to prevent or slow the progression of the disease.”

Alzheimer’s disease affects 5.4 million Americans, and more than 100,000 people die from the disease each year. It is the only disease that currently cannot be prevented, cured or even slowed. Alzheimer’s disease is a looming medical and financial crisis for individuals, families and for society as a whole.

Under Dr. Sabbagh’s leadership, Dr. Sabbagh’s expertise includes the the doctors and scientists at Barrow are diagnosis, treatment and research of not working to better understand Alzhei- only Alzheimer’s, but other memory dismer’s, to diagnose the disease earlier, order conditions including dementia. He develop new treatments to slow its pro- is also very active in the research behind gression, and continue achieving mile- the link between Alzheimer’s disease and stones that will, someday, lead to a cure. Down syndrome.

At Barrow, research and treatment A University of Arizona medical for Alzheimer’s and other cognitive school graduate, Dr. Sabbagh completdisorders are ed his residency in intertwined into neurology at Baylor one program to College of Medicine Alzheimer’s disease: provide the best and a fellowship in possible care for Millions of Americans geriatric neurology patients. Barand dementia at row scientists are affected. One in eight University of Caliexploring Alzfornia – San Diego heimer’s disease baby boomers diagnosed School of Medicine. biomarkers, perBefore joining Barforming groundrow, he held a posby 2050. A top-10 breaking research iton at Banner Sun on immunotherHealth Research cause of death. apy studies, and Institute. Dr. Sabbuilding a clinical bagh is board certitrials program to better understand the fied by the American Board of Psychiatry ways Alzheimer’s and cognitive disor- and Neurology and is a member of the ders damage the brain.

Academy of Neurology and Arizona “Alzheimer’s is a growing epidemic Geriatric Society. and with the addition of Dr. Sabbagh, “I’m proud to be part of the Barrow Barrow is well situated to provide out- team and helping in the fight against standing clinical care and to be on the Alzheimer’s disease,” says Dr. Sabbagh. cutting edge of research into new ther- “Huge advances and groundbreaking apies,” says Jeremy Shefner, MD, Senior treatments are being developed that Vice President and Chair of Neurology could offer real, meaningful progress in at Barrow. slowing this debilitating disease.” n

Medical and Research Expertise Marwan Sabbagh, MD, is a neurologist and the director of the Alzheimer’s Disease and Memory Disorders Division at Barrow Neurological Institute and holds the Karsten Solheim Chair for Dementia. Considered one of the leading experts in Alzheimer’s and dementia, Dr. Sabbagh has dedicated his career to finding a cure for age-related neurodegenerative diseases.

Elliott Mufson, PhD, is an institutional professor in the Division of Neurobiology and holds the Greening Chair for Neuroscience Research. Dr. Mufson knows what it is like to lose a loved one to Alzheimer’s disease. When Dr. Mufson’s father passed away due to Alzheimer’s, he committed himself to identifying the causes of this disease. His research has already led to a clinical trial aimed at rejuvenating brain cells that are lost early in the progression of Alzheimer’s.

Jiong Shi, MD, PhD, is a neurologist in the Department of Neurology at Barrow Neurological Institute. His mission is to focus on advanced clinical care and the pursuit of excellence through scholarly activities. This allows him to provide patients with innovative patient services and exceptional experiences.

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Why I Give “Every year I pick something to focus fundraising around, something that is important to me and that serves the needs of Barrow Neurological Institute and our community. This year I asked my friends and family to join me in making a gift to support the BarrowAlzheimer’s and Cognitive Disorders Program.

I gave to this program to honor someone that I love dearly, my Aunt Josie.

She suffered from this debilitating disease before recently passing. I wanted my friends and family to celebrate her life by supporting the amazing work that is going on in the Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Disorders Program.”

Karen C. McConnell Phoenix, AZ Board of Trustees of Barrow Neurological Foundation—Treasurer Ballard Spahr LLP, partner

Clinical Trials Under the direction of Marwan Sabbagh, MD, the Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Disorders Program at Barrow is currently conducting eight clinical trials, including: Alzheimer’s Disease Prevention Clinical Trial The Anti-Amyloid Treatment in Asymptomatic Alzheimer’s study (the “A4 study”) is to test whether a new investigational treatment, called an anti-amyloid antibody, can slow memory loss caused by Alzheimer’s.

Amyloid is a protein normally produced in the brain that can build up in older people, forming amyloid plaque deposits. Scientists believe this buildup of deposits may play a key role in the eventual development of Alzheimer’s disease-related memory loss. The A4 study invites individuals aged 65-85 with normal thinking and memory function, who may be at risk for memory loss due to Alzheimer’s disease but have no outward signs of the disease, to participate in the clinical trial.

Mild Cognitive Impairment Clinical Trials Mild cognitive impairment refers to the pre-dementia state of Alzheimer’s where people experience mild memory loss but no associated functional impairment. Three drugs are being tested to determine if they delay the progression of Alzheimer’s. Two of the drugs are oral medications, called beta amyloid cleaving enzyme inhibitors, which stop the production of amyloid in the brain. The third drug being tested is an IV infusion that is intended to clear the brain of amyloid plaques.

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Women’s Board achieves new fundraising milestone Total donations to 2016 Barrow Grand Ball surpass past records n Clinking champagne glasses and congratulatory praise echoed throughout the Arizona Biltmore ballroom on the evening of January 16, as the Women’s Board of Barrow Neurological Foundation shared the news that the 2016 Barrow Grand Ball successfully raised a record-breaking $4 million—thanks to the support of many donor attendees.

This total included a generous gift of $1.1 million to endow the Beverly Dryer Stewart, Earl A. Petznick, Jr., Olen Jeffrey Petznick Chair of Multiple Sclerosis at Barrow Neurological Institute from the Petznick’s and Ms. Stewart. (More on page 33.)

Driving the success of the 2016 Barrow Grand Ball were Women’s Board Chair Angela Melczer and Grand Ball Co-chairs Sandy Hecomovich and Amy Thurston. Their efforts were applauded by 375 guests, including some of the Valley’s most well-known leaders and philanthropists: Governor Doug Ducey and his wife, Angela; former Sen. Jon Kyl and his wife, Caryll; Robert Spet-

zler, MD, and his wife, Nancy; Stevie and Karl Eller; Nancy Hanley; Karen and Bob Hobbs; Linda and Bill Hunt; Dionne and Francis Najafi; Carole and Arte Moreno; Pat and Earl Petznick; Beverly Stewart; and Melani and Rob Walton.

Donations from the annual ball have supported medical research at Barrow for the treatment of brain tumors, aneurysms, migraines, concussions, stroke, degenerative disc disease, traumatic brain injury, cerebral vascular disease, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s, ALS, Alzheimer’s and many other debilitating disorders. The Barrow Grand Ball has also supported research for new and emerging centers of excellence at the institute, such as the Barrow Center for Neuromodulation and Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center.

As part of the annual fundraising effort, the Women’s Board chooses to highlight a special research project for collective support. This year the board selected the work of Rachael Sirianni, PhD, a lead researcher at Barrow Brain

Tumor Research Center. The goal of Dr. Sirianni’s lab is to identify new methods for safely transporting therapeutic drugs through the naturally impenetrable blood-brain barrier to target deadly brain tumors while sparing healthy tissue. Support of Dr. Sirianni’s DrugDelivery Research drives newly discovered tumor-target therapies into clinical trial—accelerating the discovery of more effective treatments and a much-needed cure.

“We are extremely fortunate to have this indefatigable group of women raising funds to support our mission,” says Dr. Spetzler, President and CEO of Barrow Neurological Institute. “I have the utmost respect for their dedication and am eternally grateful for the generosity they share for the benefit of the patients we serve.”

To learn more about the Women’s Board and contribute to the group’s fundraising efforts—supporting research at Barrow—visit SupportBarrow.org/BarrowWomensBoard. n

Hosted at the Arizona Biltmore, the 2016 Barrow Grand Ball attracted hundreds of generous donors, including (left to right) sisters Pat Petznick and Beverly Stewart; Robert Spetzler, MD, and Grand Ball Co-Chairs Sandy Hecomovich and Amy Thurston.

First row below (left to right): Joseph Melczer, Women’s Board Chair Angela Melczer, Barrow researcher Rachael Sirianni, PhD, and Greg Sirianni; Rob and Melani Walton; Robert Spetzler, MD, Stevie and Karl Eller. Second row: Dionne and Francis Najafi; Jeffrey and Tahnia McKeever; Carole and Arte Moreno. Bottom row: Ray Thurston, Ball Co-Chair Amy Thurston and Philip Francis; Volker Sonntag, MD, and Lynne Sonntag; Jane and Geoffrey Edmunds.

Women’s Board gets glimpse at impact of their generosity

As in year’s past, the Women’s Board hosted an Evening of Education Enrichment to give members and donors a peek behind the scenes at Barrow Neurological Institute. This spring, attendees had an opportunity to learn more about advances in the treatment of migraines from Kerry Knievel, DO, and the vision of Marwan Sabbagh, MD, as the new director of the Alzheimer’s and Cognitive Disorders Program at Barrow. Also featured was a presentation by Christina Kwasnica, MD, about the use of robotic suits for neurorehabilitation, and a discussion about advances in neurosurgery at Barrow, led by Robert Spetzler, MD, and Peter Nakaji, MD. Suited up in white coats are (left to right): Penny Gunning, Pam Grant, Carole Moreno, Evening of Education Enrichment Co-Chair Kathleen Lang, Ann Denk, Ardie Evans, Judy Shannon and Evening of Education Enrichment Co-Chair Robyn Lee.

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Major gifts, 2016 Barrow Grand Ball Women’s Board Project Drug-Delivery Research

Chief of Staff Mr. and Mrs. Earl Petznick Sr. and Ms. Beverly Stewart—Beverly Dryer Stewart, Earl A. Petznick, Jr., Olen Jeffrey Petznick Chair of Multiple Sclerosis at Barrow Neurological Institute

Invest in medical discovery, top-tier physician training, world-class patient care.

Mr. and Mrs. David Glew—The Spetzler Legacy Project Nancy Hanley, Hanley Family Charitable Fund—Pain Alleviation in Pancreatic Cancer Patients, The Spetzler Legacy Project Ms. Catherine Ivy, Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation—Phase 0 Clinical Trials for Brain Tumor Research Ms. Catherine Ivy, Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation—Phase 0/II Clinical Trials for Brain Tumor Research Mr. and Mrs. Dana Moore, Liberty Buick—Drug-Delivery Research The Pelican Charitable Foundation—Center for Transitional Neuro-Rehabilitation Mr. and Mrs. F. Francis Najafi, Pivotal Foundation—Targeted Therapy for Glioma Stem Cell Niches: A Clinical-Translational Phase I/II Trial Dr. and Mrs. Volker K.H. Sonntag—The Spetzler Legacy Project Dr. and Mrs. Robert F. Spetzler—The Spetzler Legacy Project Mr. and Mrs. Ray R. Thurston—Drug-Delivery Research, Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center The Rob and Melani Walton Fund of the Walton Family Foundation—The Spetzler Legacy Project Barrow Dean Ms. Barbara Anderson—The Spetzler Legacy Project Anonymous—Developing New Drugs to Treat Depression Mr. and Mrs. Bennett Dorrance—Drug-Delivery Research Mr. and Mrs. Karl Eller—Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center Mr. and Mrs. Ernie Garcia—Traumatic Brain Injury and Sports Neurology Fellowship Mr. and Mrs. Robert Hobbs Sr.,Hobbs Family Grant for Multiple Sclerosis—Multiple Sclerosis Patient Database White Coat Fellow Barrow Neurological Institute—The Spetzler Legacy Project Ms. Rebecca Bowman, in honor of Frank A. Bowman—Alzheimer’s Research Celebrity Fight Night in Italy—The Spetzler Legacy Project Mary Jane Crist—Neuroscience Nursing Education Mr. and Mrs. Geoffrey H. Edmunds—Drug-Delivery Research Mr. and Mrs. Curt R. Feuer—Deep Brain Stimulation Research Fiesta Bowl Charities—Concussion Testing for Student Athletes Mr. and Mrs. Philip L. Francis—Traumatic Brain Injury and Sports Neurology Fellowship Patricia Goldman—The Spetzler Legacy Project Mr. and Mrs. Michael R. Hecomovich—Advanced Spine Research Mr. and Mrs. Gary J. Hewson—Fall Prevention Research Mr. and Mrs. Thomas W. Lewis—Migraine Research Mr. and Mrs. Robert H. McKee—Drug-Delivery Research Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey D. McKeever—Advanced Spine Research Mr. and Mrs. Thomas O. Might—Drug-Delivery Research Mr. and Mrs. Arte Moreno—Alzheimer’s Research St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center—The Spetzler Legacy Project Mr. and Mrs. Scott Spangler—Neurosurgery Research Philip and Phyllis Taber, in honor of Philip Taber III—Barrow Concussion and Brain Injury Center Dr. and Mrs. Nicholas Theodore—Spinal Surgery Research Mr. and Mrs. Michael L. Watts—Barrow Center for Neuromodulation

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Ivy Foundation fast-tracks brain cancer research at Barrow As president of the Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation, Catherine Ivy funds aggressive scientific research seeking to discover new treatments to defeat brain tumors while extending the lives of patients diagnosed with them.

“Our foundation’s work will not be done until we find a cure … so nobody has to experience the devastation we went through.”

Catherine Ivy

n Ben and Catherine Ivy would have tried any treatment in the world to extend Ben’s life after he was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2005, but they quickly learned that options were limited and medical science was far from offering a cure.

So they decided to do everything in their power to influence the future for other patients and families blindsided by this deadly disease.

When Ben passed away just four months later, Catherine became even more fiercely dedicated to the cause. As president of the Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation, she is driving breakthroughs in medical science by supporting world-leading investigative research that aims to extend the lives of patients diagnosed with the same form of cancer that took Ben’s life.

This year, the foundation designated a gift of $550,860 to the Barrow Grand Ball—directly supporting the work of Nader Sanai, MD, director of the Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center (BBTRC). Dr. Sanai’s work has been closely followed by Catherine and supported by the Ivy Foundation previously. But this time around, he is entering unchartered territory for researchers universally, conducting the world’s first Phase 0 clinical trials for brain cancer patients.

Marrying of minds and spirit

When Ben and Catherine met, they were both managing successful businesses in Palo Alto, Calif. They quickly discovered that they shared a similar financial planning background and a philanthropic interest in healthcare and education.

When they married, they formed the Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation. They had yet to solidify the focus of the foundation. That decision became painfully clear after Ben was diagnosed with a glioblastoma multiforme five years later in 2005.

“It didn’t take long for us to learn that this area of medical research was in need of help … because there was no cure in sight and the options for treatment were very limited,” says Catherine, who is responsible for administration, investment management and grant-making at the Ivy Foundation.

“We didn’t know the extent of suffering of this disease until we experienced it,” she adds. “Our foundation’s work will not be done until we find a cure … so nobody has to experience the devastation we went through.”

Targeting a much-needed cure

Brain tumors are listed as one of the top-10 causes of cancer-related deaths in the United States—with glioblastoma

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Supporting one-of-a-kind clinical trials The Ben and Catherine Ivy Foundation generously donated two gifts totaling $550,000 to the 2016 Barrow Grand Ball to fund groundbreaking brain cancer research at Barrow Neurological Institute (see related story, page 14).

The funds are providing essential support for clinical trials led by Nader Sanai, MD, director of the Barrow Brain Tumor Research Center (BBTRC). Patients in Dr. Sanai’s Phase 0 trials (the first such trials in the world for treating malignant brain tumors) are administered an experimental drug previously approved by the FDA for treating other forms of cancer.

Within hours, neurosurgeons remove the patient’s tumor and investigate whether it was penetrated by the experimental drug and, if so, whether the drug is having the desired effect on the tumor. If the drug succeeds, the study moves into Phase II trials, allowing more patients to participate.

multiforme tumors being the deadliest.

Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are the only existing treatments for these fast-growing tumors, but they rarely succeed in extending patients’ lives beyond 12 to 16 months.

Barrow is home to the busiest brain tumor programs in the United States, making it ideally suited to conduct multiple trials while developing and testing new drugs. “This Phase 0 approach for malignant brain tumors is a game-changer in cancer research,” says Dr. Sanai. “It streamlines the drug-approval timeline from an average of five years to six months—saving time, money and, potentially, lives.

“Over the last three decades, little progress has been made to identify new treatments and alter patients’ outcomes,” he continues. “But the Ivy Foundation’s gift enables us to put brain tumor research on the fast track. I’m extremely grateful for Catherine Ivy’s dedication to defeating this disease.”

The current gifts made through the Barrow Grand Ball echo donations made in recent years by the Ivy Foundation to Barrow and its partnering research institutions. In 2014, the foundation awarded a $3-million grant to BBTRC, Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen) and Nemucore Medical Innovations to collaboratively seek new medications that could be safely transported across the blood-brain barrier

to reach targeted tumors. BBTRC has partnered with TGen and the Karmanos Cancer Institute on the Phase 0 research.

Building a strong foundation

In the year following her husband’s death, Catherine traveled around the world to visit research institutes and to learn as much as she could about brain tumors, strategizing how she could wage—and someday win—the war against them.

Since 2005, the Ivy Foundation has invested more than $60 million toward brain tumor research. The foundation strongly encourages investigators to share successes and failures with others in the field—so that all researchers can avoid dead ends and continue driving toward success.

Catherine notes that while a cure is not yet in sight, funding from the foundation is definitely impacting the research community. Recently, the Ivy Glioblastoma Atlas Project was introduced as a foundational resource for exploring the anatomic and genetic basis of glioblastoma at the cellular and molecular levels. This “brain-mapping” tool is available to researchers worldwide.

A vaccine against brain tumors is in the works, and advances in neuro-molecular imaging are making it possible for doctors to diagnose the disease earlier as

well as predict and monitor responses to individualized treatment plans.

The BBTRC Phase 0 trials are designed to accelerate the discovery of drugs to slow the growth of tumors without harming healthy tissue surrounding them. “If one drug doesn’t work, we can move on to the next one without the patient losing more time,” says Dr. Sanai.

“For the first time ever, I can tell every brain tumor patient, ‘I have something new for you.’”

“I have the utmost respect for Dr. Sanai and his ability to think outside of the box,” says Catherine. “He thinks pragmatically, asks intelligent questions and gets things done. The brain tumor community is lucky to have him. This research can lead to answers … and to hope.” n

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43rd Annual Lou Grubb Friends Fore Golf & Gala

Thank you to our Lou Grubb Friends Fore Golf & Gala 2016 committee members: Co-Chairs: Roger Maxwell and Dan Grubb Scottie Button Loui Olivas, PhD Tyler Button Elizabeth Oviedo Flynn Carey Jorge Quintero Booker T. Evans Natalie Patten Colton Grubb Tom Reahard Elissa L. Iatridis Dennis Scully Elizabeth Lee Jake Thomas Erik Jensen Brandon Wallraff Brian Kirk Lindsi Weber Stuart Kirk Jerry D. Worsham II Larry Mayhew Shannon Worsham Dennis Murphy

Raises more than $750,000 for Barrow and St. Joseph’s

n They did it again! The Lou Grubb Friends Fore Golf & Gala committee took a great fundraising event—to support Barrow Neurological Institute and Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center—and made it even greater, proving that whisky, wine and cheese are not the only things that get better with age.

This year’s kick-off gala was hosted at

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a new venue for the event, The Scottsdale Resort at McCormick Ranch, offering more room for the expanding guest list.

It was a night of feather boas, pearls, fedoras and fun—Roaring ’20s style.

Guests enjoyed cocktails while mingling in an elegant courtyard setting, stepping into the photo booth for fun mugshots with friends and oohing and aahing over beautifully restored vintage automobiles.

The evening culminated with a sumptuous dinner and presentation emceed by Arizona Diamondbacks President and CEO Derrick Hall, capped off by a live auction and the Take 5 after-party.

Day two lured hundreds of golfers to McCormick Ranch Golf Club for the much-anticipated tournament, played on a couple of the most beautiful courses in the Valley. Golfers were treated to a

beautiful sunny day and several exciting tournament novelties, courtesy of the creative organizing committee.

Just before the shotgun start, the Penguin Air Newschopper, with Valley traffic reporter Bruce Haffner at the controls, hovered overhead for a golf-ball drop raffle, in which one lucky winner won a $2,000 cash prize. Players were also invited to try out the golf-ball can-

non, a point-and-shoot gun designed to launch a ball 300-400 yards.

Throughout the day, spirits were high, and so was the heat, but the committee had planned for cool treats on the course, including an ice cream stand and remote margarita station. Just before dusk, the last players turned in their score cards and settled in for the awards dinner, hosted annually by superstar

And the award goes to ROGER MAXWELL!

The second annual Lou and Evelyn Grubb Spirit Award was presented to Roger Maxwell for his philanthropic spirit and enduring commitment to helping others. He was honored with a standing ovation during opening night of the 43rd annual Lou Grubb Friends Fore Golf & Gala, as he accepted the award from his fellow co-chair, Dan Grubb.

Roger became involved with the tournament at the grassroots level in the 1970s, not long after he was befriended by founding organizer Lou Grubb. The two were drawn together by a shared passion for golf and a propensity for charitable giving. Their friendship lasted for decades, until Lou’s passing in 2012.

Caption: Dan Grubb (right) surprises Roger Maxwell with the Lou and Evelyn Grubb Spirit Award, which Roger had been led to believe was designated for another member of the event’s organizing committee.

To view a video slideshow about Roger Maxwell’s philanthropic roots and his friendship with Lou, visit LouGrubbFriendsForeGolf.org. committee member Roger Maxwell (see story above). Roger served as co-chair of the committee this year along with Dan Grubb. Dan is the son of Lou and Evelyn Grubb, who are memorialized every spring through this beloved event—now 43 years old and stronger than ever. n

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‘Celebrity Fight Night in Italy’ donates $750K to Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center

Stars shine brightest in the Southwest

Celebrity Fight Night returned for 22nd encore performance n The stars aligned once again in Phoenix this spring, shining brighter than any other night of the year. Celebrity Fight Night returned to the Valley, April 9, bringing an entourage of award-winning singers, entertainers and professional athletes together for one of the nation’s most scintillating fundraising events.

The stellar line-up included returning-emcee and Grammy Award-winning Reba McEntire, who shared the spotlight with musical director David Foster and a number of headlining acts, including country music duo Brooks & Dunn, comedian-actor

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Sinbad and Canada’s most popular vocal quartet—The Tenors.

Culminating the evening was a performance by singer, songwriter, actress and two-time winner of the Academy of Country Music’s Entertainer of the Year Award, Carrie Underwood.

Celebrity Fight Night Foundation was founded in 1994 by Jimmy Walker, who collaborated with Abraham Lieberman, MD, to establish the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute. Under Dr. Lieberman’s leadership, and with the help of Muhammad and Lonnie Ali, the center has evolved into a National Parkinson Foundation Center of

Veronica and Andrea Bocelli share the spotlight at Celebrity Fight Night in Italy with Nancy and Jimmy Walker, chairman and founder of the Celebrity Fight Night Foundation.

The second annual Celebrity Fight Night in Italy provided an additional $750,000 in support for the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute, following its successful debut in the fall of 2014.

The night of entertainment in Italy was hosted by world-renowned tenor Andrea Bocelli, who has also headlined the Phoenix event in previous years.

Bocelli and his wife, Veronica, visited and toured the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center for the first time in December. He delighted hospital staff and special guests with a surprise performance during a welcome reception, organized by Barrow Neurological Foundation to express gratitude for his support.

Muhammad Ali and his wife, Lonnie, were keenly invested in the center’s outreach and education programs, which encourage patients to remain physically and socially active through classes in art, singing, dancing, yoga, Tai Chi and other forms of exercise. In addition, support groups and workshops are organized for patients and their loved ones to share experiences with others and gain a better understanding of the physiological and emotional impact of Parkinson’s.

Lighting up the stage at this year’s event were (left page, clockwise) Carrie Underwood, Sinbad and The Tenors. (Above, clockwise) David Foster quips with Reba McEntire; Jimmy and Nancy Walker visit backstage with Muhammad Ali and Carrie Underwood; Bob and Renee Parsons strike a pose with Carrie Underwood; Bruce and Diane Halle cozy up with Reba McEntire.

Excellence, offering comprehensive treatments for Parkinson’s and movement disorders along with recreational and support networks for patients and family members.

Celebrity Fight Night has raised more than $118 million for charitable organizations since its inception and has donated more than $27 million to the continued development of the center (see related story, page 26).

The Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center treats more than 10,000 patients annually and performs more deep brain stimulation surgeries than any other facility in the nation. Its name-

sake—the world-renowned fighter Muhammad Ali—made an appearance at this year’s Celebrity Fight Night, drawing admiration and praise for his indomitable spirit in the fight against Parkinson’s disease.

It would likely be the boxing legend’s last public appearance before he passed away June 4. Although the Parkinson’s community mourns the loss of a beloved ally, the center established in his name will continue fulfilling Muhammad Ali’s greatest wish: offering unparalleled, compassionate care to all patients, while inspiring them to live their lives to the fullest. n SupportBarrow.org

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The Rob and Melani Walton

Outpatient Neuro-Rehabilitation Gym

Joe Niekro Foundation™ gives grant and award to Joseph Zabramski, MD Supporting advances in research for rare cerebrovascular conditions

Joe Niekro Foundation™ Board members (left to right) Bill and Linda Michels, Kimberly Chapman and Natalie Niekro award a $160,000 grant to Joseph Zabramski, MD, and Yashar Kalani, MD, PhD, to support AVM research at Barrow.

Above: Melani and Rob Walton; Robert Spetzler, MD, CEO and President, Barrow Neurological Institute Left: Jim Boomer in the Ekso exoskeleton rehabilitation suit.

n Successful treatment for brain and spine disorders, injuries and diseases is often just the first step in a positive outcome for patients. Just as important is a comprehensive rehabilitation program that returns the patient to a fulfilling life.

Thanks to Rob and Melani Walton and the Walton Family Foundation, The Rob and Melani Walton Outpatient Neuro-Rehabilitation Gym enables patients to lead productive lives and expands the high quality of patient care for which Barrow Neurological Institute is known.

The new rehabilitation gym opened its doors in March 2015—made possible by a gift of $250,000 from The Rob and Melani Walton Fund of the Walton Family Foundation. This state-of-the-art gym is designed specifically for patients who are recovering from brain and/or spinal cord injuries, stroke, concussions and brain tumor resections. In the past

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year, 10,464 rehabilitation sessions have taken place at the gym with approximately 1,000 to 1,200 patients being treated each month.

“It’s not uncommon to witness a paralyzed patient walk again or a brain-injury patient speak again at the neuro-rehabilitation center,” says Christina Kwasnica, MD, medical director of Barrow neuro-rehabilitation. “Patients have access to wheelchair-accessible equipment, innovative rehabilitation technology and dedicated therapists, nurses and social workers who work with patients to strengthen their weaknesses and utilize their capabilities.”

The Rob and Melani Walton Outpatient Neuro-Rehabilitation Gym is part of a larger outpatient rehabilitation center that is custom built to help patients and their support systems get back to an active life.

Over the past 10 years, they have donated more than $670,000; their generous support has funded numerous projects in rehabilitation services and other Barrow initiatives.

“Rob and I are very excited to be part of the new Barrow Neuro-Rehabilitation Center, mostly for the renowned care and support Barrow provides for patients and their families,” says Melani Walton. “With the patient-focused care of Barrow, along with the multidisciplinary teams of highly qualified practitioners, the outpatient neuro-rehabilitation gym is uniquely positioned to ensure best care.”

To learn more about how you can support Barrow neuro-rehabilitation programs, visit SupportBarrow.org. n

n Barrow Neurological Foundation was awarded a $160,000 grant from the Joe Niekro Foundation™ to support research aimed at discovering how certain cerebrovascular abnormalities— specifically arteriovenous malformations (AVMs)—affect the blood vessels of the brain, oftentimes with devastating consequences.

This is the second gift, totaling $210,000, made by the Joe Niekro Foundation™ to support a study under investigation by Joseph Zabramski, MD, and Yashar Kalani, MD, PhD, at Barrow Neurological Institute. Their research seeks to identify patients at risk for AVMs earlier, offering them treatment before the condition becomes life-threatening.

The grant was announced at the foundation’s 6th Annual Knuckle Ball…A Pitch for Life gala last October, where Dr. Zabramski was honored as the Joe Niekro Medical Humanitarian of the Year. The award is given annually to a neurological medical professional for research advancements and treatment studies of cerebral aneurysms, AVMs and hemorrhagic strokes.

“Much of what we do at the Joe Niekro Foundation™ is at the core of Dr. Zabramski’s research and practice,”

says Natalie Niekro, founder and executive director. “We are thrilled to honor Dr. Zabramski with this much deserved award. He encompasses all of the passion and innovative clinical skills that drive our foundation’s mission.”

Natalie established the foundation in 2008, prompted by the sudden loss of her father from a brain aneurysm in 2006.

Following her father’s death, she discovered there were no support services for families affected by brain aneurysms or similar conditions, nor was funding available to advance research to defeat them.

“I couldn’t understand how my healthy father, who had jogged five miles that morning, could be gone just hours later,” says Natalie. “I wanted answers … and comfort from others who’d been through this experience. When I couldn’t find what I needed, I decided to create it myself. I don’t want others to feel as alone as I did.”

Joe Niekro was a 22-year MLB veteran who played for seven Major League Baseball teams, primarily the Houston Astros.

His signature pitch was the knuckleball, which has an unpredictable flight path and is extremely difficult to hit. Niekro is still recognized as one of the top-10 knuckleball pitchers of all time.

“It was an extraordinary privilege to be chosen as the Joe Niekro Foundation Medical Humanitarian of the Year as well as to receive this grant,” said Dr. Zabramski. “I am humbled and grateful to have the continued support of the foundation to help us unravel the mysteries of AVMs through ongoing research.” n

ABCs of Arteriovenous Malformations (AVMs)

These tangled mass of abnormal blood vessels: • affect less than 1 percent of the population • occur in people of any race or gender • are most commonly diagnosed in patients between the ages of 20 and 40 years old • can rupture and cause brain bleeds, much like a stroke.

Although AVMs are rare, the consequences for patients are life-changing. Join us in supporting research to discover causes and more advanced treatments of AVMs and other cerebrovascular abnormalities by making a gift at SupportBarrow.org.

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The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation deepens commitment to Barrow

The Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center is a National Parkinson Foundation Center of Excellence, one of only 39 in the world. This all-inclusive center provides access to expert clinical care, specialized therapy services, resource information, research, education and outreach programs for people living with Parkinson’s disease and their loved ones.

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n The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation has gifted more than $5 million to the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute—the nation’s most comprehensive center for Parkinson’s disease, gait and balance disorders, and other movement disorders.

Most recently, the Parsons announced the latest gift of $1 million for the center at Celebrity Fight Night XXII in April 2016.

The center was established in 1997

by Muhammad Ali, founding director Abraham Lieberman, MD, and support through Celebrity Fight Night to combine clinical and research expertise with community support and emotional care.

The Parsons have been longtime supporters of the center and have worked closely with Dr. Lieberman to transform movement disorder research, education and patient care.

In addition to generous gifts to the center, the Bob & Renee Parsons Fall Prevention Center was established and funded through an initial $1 million grant from the Parsons in 2014. The Fall Prevention Center was created to address a major problem for patients with Parkinson’s disease and for all aging Americans. At least one-third of adults older than 65 fall at least once a year, making falls the leading cause of injury-related deaths and the most common cause of hospitalization among this segment of the U.S. population.

“This important program for Parkinson’s patients exists today because of the generosity of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation,” says Holly Shill, MD, newly appointed director of the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center. “We believe that the research being conducted here will lead to a better quality of life for our patients and, potentially, for all aging Americans.”

The Parsons’ generosity throughout the years has enabled the center, under Dr. Lieberman’s leadership, to endow Dr. Shill’s chair and to hire dedicated physicians, nurses, researchers, therapists, psychiatrists, fellows and graduate students who evaluate patients in the clinical setting and compile critical patient data. The purchase of essential equipment including a trans-cranial magnetic stimulator, biosensors, magnetic stimulator and an innovative walkway that records patients’ step data has also been added to the center because of the Parsons’ support.

The transformational gifts from The

Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation have directly impacted people who are living with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders. Their commitment to the center has also influenced medical research to determine the causes for falls and innovations for preventing them.

“Ultimately it is our hope that, through the center, the talented neurological team at Barrow will be able to determine the root cause for falls and help to reduce or eliminate the risk of recurrence for those affected,” says entrepreneur and philanthropist Bob Parsons.

To learn more about how you can support the Bob and Renee Parsons Fall Prevention Center and the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center, visit SupportBarrow.org. n

Walk/run champions Parkinson’s research and care

This year marked the 10th anniversary of Walk the Fight/Run the Distance, an event that draws more than 1,000 participants to raise money and awareness for Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders treated at the Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute.

Walk the Fight/Run the Distance is staged annually by the Parkinson Network of Arizona at Tempe Town Lake Beach Park, which was a flurry of activity this year on February 2. Bouncy inflatables, face painting, musical entertainment, food vendors and art displays attracted participants of all ages, coming together for the cause and celebrating the indomitable spirit of world heavyweight champ Muham-

mad Ali, who fought Parkinson’s for more than 30 years. Walk the Fight/ Run the Distance is one of seven events comprising the Dignity Health Run Series, which supports specific areas of research and treatment at St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and Barrow. To learn more about individual events and the series, visit SupportBarrow.org.

To learn how you can support lifesaving care, medical education and research at Barrow—making a difference in the lives of thousands of patients treated here every year— visit www.SupportBarrow.org or call 602.406.3041.

Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow names new director

The Muhammad Ali Parkinson Center at Barrow Neurological Institute has named Holly A. Shill, MD, as its new director, marking the return of one of its most admired and respected Parkinson’s physicians.

With a medical degree from the University of Arizona, Dr. Shill began her career at the hospital as a resident and later completed a fellowship at Barrow in movement disorders, including Parkinson’s disease.

“I am delighted to have the opportunity to return and lead this amazing center,” says Dr. Shill. “This is the most comprehensive Parkinson’s center in the nation, and I hope to help it grow and serve even more people around Arizona and the nation.”

Abraham Lieberman, MD, who founded the center and was one of Muhammad Ali’s personal physicians, is now the center’s emeritus program director. He will continue to see patients and play a vital role in the center’s future growth.

Dr. Shill’s expertise includes the diagnoses and treatment of Parkinson’s and other involuntary movements, including tremor disorders, Huntington’s disease, dystonia and ataxia.

In her new leadership role, one of Dr. Shill’s main focuses will be to expand research at the center. “The industry is on the cusp of major breakthroughs, and I want to be sure that Barrow is helping to lead those accomplishments.”

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Why I Give

Legacy Society

Natalie Fricke’s family reflects gratitude for lifesaving care through legacy giving

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Tyler, Maxwell and Natalie Fricke

Natalie Fricke and Kris A. Smith, MD

n While many 16-year-olds hope to spend their summers conquering a first job or securing a driver’s license, Natalie Fricke faced a far different challenge.

In the summer of 1999, she underwent Gamma Knife radiosurgery.

Natalie’s challenges began a couple months prior to the radiosurgery when she experienced her first seizure while on a beach in Mexico. After being raced back to Arizona, she was immediately put on anti-seizure medication and referred to Barrow Neurological Institute.

At Barrow, it was discovered that Natalie had a Grade IV arteriovenous malformation (AVM) on the right side of her brain that was causing her seizures. AVMs are a congenital disease in which a tangle of veins and arteries are abnormally connected and, thus, more likely to rupture. Like Natalie, many people don’t know they have an AVM until they experience severe headaches, seizures, loss of vision and, in serious cases, brain hemorrhages.

AVMs are rated on a I – VI grading system, developed by Robert Spetzler, MD, and Neil A. Martin, MD, to estimate the risk of surgery for each patient.

Grade I malformations are small, near the outside of the brain, and located in

an area that, if removed, will not result in a loss of sensory processing, linguistic ability or paralysis. Grade V lesions are large, deep in the brain, and situated in neurologically critical areas. Grade VI lesions are essentially inoperable.

Natalie’s large Grade IV AVM was located deep inside her brain, near areas that controlled speech, language function and vision. Because traditional surgery would be dangerous, Kris A. Smith, MD, suggested Natalie undergo Gamma Knife radiosurgery to eradicate the detrimental AVM. Gamma Knife radiosurgery is a noninvasive procedure that destroys abnormal brain tissue by focusing 192 beams of radiation on a specific spot. This technique doesn’t hurt the surrounding brain tissue because the individual beams are too weak, but when they meet at a focal point, they can destroy the AVM. Natalie’s procedure was a success, and the AVM was destroyed.

“I related very much to her and her father since I have two daughters of my own,” says Dr. Smith. “I was thrilled to see her respond so well to Gamma Knife treatment …. It’s very gratifying to be able to offer state-of-the-art treatments for people like her, with difficult problems, and see them do so well.”

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When you make a planned gift to support Barrow Neurological Institute you are investing in a future at our hospital that includes discoveries in the laboratory, medical training for doctors and nurses, and more effective patient care. You help to create a healthier future for our city, our state and the world beyond. Your planned gift to Barrow Neurological Foundation entitles you to membership in the Legacy Society, a giving society for benefactors who have included the hospital in their estate planning.

We would consider it a privilege to discuss your legacy with you. Please contact us at 602.406.3041.

Natalie returned to high school immediately after the Gamma Knife procedure, and went on to graduate from Arizona State University with a degree in communications. Today, she is married, has a successful career in real estate, and is the proud mother of a toddler, Maxwell. Natalie and her family attribute all of this to Dr. Smith and the care she received at Barrow.

To show their gratitude, Natalie’s parents, Sam and Cristy Anderson, recently made a legacy gift to Barrow to benefit research and patient care. The Andersons chose to include Barrow Neurological Foundation in their will to thank Dr. Smith and the staff at Barrow for caring for their daughter and providing her with the highest level of medical care available. “Barrow really cared about the entire family and the entire outcome,” says Cristy.

Some of the events of her stay at Barrow are a blur, says Natalie, but she has never forgotten the gratitude she has for the surgeon who extended her life. “I don’t know what you can say to someone who saved your life. But, I would say, thank you! I hope that I can make Dr. Smith proud. I owe it to him to be a good person.” n

Employees band together to give extra boost to Barrow n St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center and Barrow Neurological Institute are already known throughout the Valley—and the world—as leaders in medical care, research and education. This is only possible because of the dedication of hundreds of Dignity Health employees, who give selflessly to their jobs every day. “iGive” was established to empower employees to make an even bigger difference in the lives of patients served at the hos-

pital. Employees are encouraged to donate whatever amount they can, because all gifts are combined to ensure St. Joseph’s and Barrow offer the most advanced medical care possible.

Donations of all sizes are welcomed and needed.

For information and to make a lifesaving gift today, visit SupportBarrow.org/EmployeeGiving. n

“After working for St. Joseph’s for as long as I have, and after having surgery here myself, I know how the hospital helps not only the patient, but the family as well. Participating in iGive is easy. It’s not a huge investment, but when combined with others, I know it creates something huge to help.”

Ryan Nez, Customer Service Representative

“I started donating after attending a BNI Neuromuscular symposium. The work of our neurologists inspired me to donate to St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center. Their passion for their work and their high level of intelligence blows me away.”

Lindsey Higginbotham, Staff Registered Nurse, Barrow Neuro ICU

“Every day, I witness employees going above and beyond to assist patients and their families. I also have firsthand knowledge of the excellent care, quality and humankindness practiced at Dignity Health because both my parents were treated successfully here for serious illnesses. There are many charities bidding for our donations, but I think it’s very rewarding to actually be a part of where I donate my money … and see how my donations can have an impact. I know that every little bit helps and adds up quickly—especially when everyone participates.”

Deb Fogel, Director of Business and Practice Operations at UACC at St. Joseph’s

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Dr. Spetzler showcased by media near and far n He’s been directing Barrow Neurological Institute for more than 30 years, and holds the formal title of President and CEO, but thanks to the 50th anniversary issue of PHOENIX magazine, Robert Spetzler, MD, has another title to add to the list: Maestro of Medicine.

The commemorative edition of the magazine features an article that refers to Dr. Spetzler as “arguably Arizona’s most famous clinician,” and recounts a patient story from 1991, in which he “sent shockwaves through the medical world for inducing clinical death in a woman” to successfully remove a brain aneurysm before bringing her back to life. The “cardiac standstill” technique used to treat the patient was pioneered by Dr. Spetzler and is now used globally.

For his contributions to the neuroscience community—throughout the Valley and the world—Dr. Spetzler was named as one of the top-25 “maestros of medicine in Valley Healthcare.” In addition to the cardiac standstill, he has innovated numerous spinal and brain surgery techniques, including a procedure to repair internal decapitation (when the spine is detached from the skull) and a procedure to repair abnormal clusters of blood vessels in brain tissue known as arteriovenous malformations.

During his three decades at Barrow, he is believed to have performed more aneurysm procedures than any other neurosurgeon in the world (more than 6,300). He is also credited with establishing the institute’s highly respected neurosurgical residency program, now the largest in the nation.

In 2014, Dr. Spetzler appeared on the cover of PHOENIX magazine as the Valley’s Top Doctor—a designation awarded annually to one physician from a field of approximately 500 candidates, nominated by peers in 52 subspecialties,

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which are also ranked each year.

Although it was the first time Dr. Spetzler achieved the No. 1 overall top doctor status, he has been included in the neurosurgery subspecialty list every year since the beginning of Top Doc time— 1995. Being the only doctor in the Valley to achieve this distinction earned him yet another nickname: “Dr. Consistency.”

PHOENIX magazine is not the only local publication to follow the legacy of Dr. Spetzler. At the Phoenix New Times, he was named “Best Brain Surgeon” in 2012, while The Arizona Republic included an article about his cardiac standstill procedure in the list of “Top 10 Health Stories” published in the newspaper’s 125th year commemorative edition.

Thousands of patients from Arizona, across the country and around the world have benefited by Dr. Spetzler’s expertise, knowledge and surgical skills.

Likewise, physicians from other states and countries have traveled to Phoenix and been mentored by him to learn techniques he has mastered, so when they return home, they have experience that can be used for the benefit of their patients and colleagues.

Dr. Spetzler’s prominence and prestige have elevated Barrow to national and international acclaim.

Reporters from National Geographic, headquartered in Washington, D.C., recently visited him at Barrow to learn more about his work for inclusion in an investigative piece about “How Science Is Redefining Life and Death.” He was also featured in an in-depth story published by Der Speigel, one of Europe’s largest news magazines (circulation, 840,000).

Dr. Spetzler is equally humble as he is skilled. When he was likened to a “rock star” during his interview for the PHOENIX Top Doc issue in 2014, he quickly turned the spotlight on others more deserving.

“The patients who entrust their lives to our care are, in my mind, the real “rock stars,” he said. n

Investing in Barrow’s future

Endowed chairs help recruit and retain world-class leaders Through the years, many generous benefactors have stepped forward to endow programs and chairs, providing Barrow Neurological Institute a steady stream of income for academic and research priority areas.

These endowments are an esteemed honor for the individuals who hold them and have a far-reaching impact on Barrow’s patients, fostering innovation, scholarship and research at the institute year after year.

Gifts directed to leadership endowments help Barrow attract the brightest minds in medicine and are imperative to the retention and recruitment of preeminent physicians and scientists.

For donors, choosing to fund a leadership endowment represents an opportunity to leave a legacy at Barrow, while honoring an outstanding medical professional for his or her accomplishments.

Continued investments in endowed chairs will strengthen Barrow’s ability to bring together top brain and spine specialists and scientists at the institute —who, in turn, bring new research projects into our community, creating jobs, enhancing the local economy and improving healthcare here and beyond.

The following six leaders have been recently awarded endowed chairs at Barrow:

Mark Agius, MD Beverly Dryer Stewart, Earl A. Petznick, Jr., Olen Jeffrey Petznick Chair of Multiple Sclerosis Dr. Agius is a nationally recognized leader in multiple sclerosis care and research.

Abraham Lieberman, MD Lonnie and Muhammed Ali Chair in Movement Disorders Research Dr. Lieberman is an internationally recognized leader in the diagnosis and treatment of Parkinson’s disease and is the medical director of the Movement Disorders Clinic at Barrow.

Elliot J. Mufson, PhD Greening Chair for Neuroscience Research Dr. Mufson is a prolific research scientist principally working on biochemical, histological and genetic markers for Alzheimer’s disease.

Marwan N. Sabbagh, MD Karsten Solheim Chair for Dementia Dr. Sabbagh is an internationally renowned specialist in Alzheimer’s disease care and research.

Jeremy Shefner, MD, PhD Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation Chair of Neurology Dr. Shefner is the associate director of Barrow, leading neurology programs and services for the institute, and is a renowned amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) physician and scientist.

Holly Shill, MD Bob & Renee Parsons Chair in Parkinson’s Disease & Movement Disorders Dr. Shill is an admired and respected Parkinson’s physician and researcher with expertise in the diagnoses and treatment of Parkinson’s disease and other involuntary movement disorders.

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Amazing Medicine

Petznick and Stewart families donate generously to MS research

Kansas City woman makes remarkable recovery after undergoing complex brain surgery at Barrow

$1.1M gift establishes endowed chair, furthering the family’s legacy of philanthropy

“Barrow not only provided me with the best neurosurgeon in the world to operate on my brain but also an opportunity to rehab with the exoskeleton.”

Heather Sixta

n Heather Sixta underwent surgery at Barrow Neurological Institute last September where neurosurgeons untangled and removed two malformations filled with an abnormal cluster of blood vessels. Without surgery, Heather risked a high chance for further brain hemorrhages and permanent paralysis.

Because these types of brain lesions—called cavernous malformations—are risky to remove, Heather traveled to Barrow in Phoenix to be operated on by renowned surgeon Robert Spetzler, MD, who has many years of experience treating these often debilitating lesions.

“I’ve had a history of suffering from cavernous malformations and I wanted to make sure I had the most skilled surgeon to operate on me so I would have as little deficit as possible,” says Heather.

Following surgery, Heather underwent three weeks at Barrow rehabbing with a breakthrough technology to help her regain her strength and walk. This revolutionary technology, made possible through benefactor support, is called the exoskeleton, a bionic suit worn by the patient and enables individuals who are paralyzed or suffer from lower extremity weakness to stand up and walk.

“Barrow not only provided me with the best neurosurgeon in the world to operate on my brain but also an opportunity to

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rehab with the exoskeleton,” says Heather. “It’s amazing how quickly I’ve recovered as a result. I’m getting stronger every day.”

The road to recovery has been a long one for Heather. Four years ago, she learned she had eight cavernous malformations in her brain after one ruptured. She underwent surgery in Kansas City but seven of the malformations remained because they were deemed too risky to remove.

Heather contacted Barrow in August to review her case. Dr. Spetzler found that two of the malformations had ruptured, with a high chance of further bleeding and recommended surgery. The remaining five are not active or expected to cause harm.

“Heather’s case was complex based on the number of cavernous malformations she had and the high activity of the two we removed,” says Dr. Spetzler, who is President and CEO of Barrow. “We operated on the riskiest of the malformations since they had ruptured and were likely to cause further severe deficit. I’m very pleased with how well Heather has recovered.”

Barrow performs more brain surgeries annually than any hospital in the United States and is known for treating the most complex brain and spinal disorders. When you make a gift to Barrow in support of patient care, research or medical education, you help make amazing stories like Heather’s possible. n

n Beverly Stewart and the Petznick family continue their generous record of support to Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center with a $1.1 million gift establishing an endowed chair position in multiple sclerosis (MS) at Barrow Neurological Institute. The donation mirrors a commitment by the family to improve MS treatments by accelerating research that aims to pinpoint causes for this inflammatory disease.

“Our family has benefited by Earl and Pat Petznick the care provided here in the past, so this is a gift of gratitude as well as an investment in the future medical care of our community,” says Pat Petznick. “Our Beverly Stewart hope is that this endowment leads to happier, healthier lives for patients suffering with MS.” The Beverly Dryer Stewart, Earl A. Petznick, Jr., Olen Jeffrey Petznick Chair of Multiple Sclerosis at Barrow Neurological Institute has been awarded to Mark Agius, MD, whose expertise includes the immune preventive therapy of patients with MS as well as the treatment of other inflammatory disorders of the nervous system.

“I am humbled and deeply grateful to the Petznick and Stewart families for this generous and thoughtful endowment,” says Dr. Agius. “This gift allows Barrow to focus more energy, time and

commitment to the care of patients with MS and to further the understanding of this disease.”

MS is a common cause of serious neurological disability in young and middle-aged patients. More than 400,000 Americans are living with the disease, and approximately 10,000 new cases are reported annually. Researchers do not fully understand the causes of MS, but current understanding is that long-term disability may be prevented through early treatment.

“My goals in directing the neuroimmunology division and the Multiple Sclerosis Group at Barrow include improving patient access and education, with emphasis on early effective immune therapies, as well as fostering research into regenerative strategies,” adds Dr. Agius. “There is potential and expectation in the foreseeable future that therapies in neuro-regeneration may allow for recovery of function in patients.”

Throughout their longstanding philanthropic relationship with Barrow and St. Joseph’s, the Petznick and Stewart families have supported numerous areas in need of funding, including spine and brain tumor research, renovation and expansion projects, and advanced patient care offered at The University of Arizona Cancer Center at St. Joseph’s, which opened in August 2015.

“We are very fortunate to have the world-class medical care offered by Barrow and St. Joseph’s right here in Phoenix,” says Petznick. “Our family feels it is a privilege to be able to support it for the benefit of the community.” n Gifts from donors are vitally important to the future of MS research at Barrow. Please donate today at SupportBarrow.org or by calling 602.406.3041.

Mark Agius, MD

Beverly Dryer Stewart, Earl A. Petznick, Jr., Olen Jeffrey Petznick Chair of Multiple Sclerosis at Barrow Neurological Institute Prior to joining Barrow as professor of neurology and director of the neuroimmunology division at Barrow, Dr. Mark Agius served as professor in the department of neurology at University of California, Davis. He earned his medical degree from the University of Malta and the Royal College of Physicians of London before completing a neurology residency program at Boston University and a neuroimmunology fellowship at the University of Chicago.

Dr. Aguis is board certified by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He is an elected fellow of the American Neurological Association, the Royal Colleges of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow and of Canada, and is a member of the American Academy of Neurology and the Royal college of Physicians.

Dr. Agius’ research interests include pathogenesis and therapy of autoimmune disease of the nervous system.

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Grateful Thoughts

Foundation Staff

As many of you know, this is a significant and pivotal time in the life of Barrow Neurological Institute. We have celebrated 54 years of successful growth at the institute along with celebrating 51 years of philanthropic momentum provided by the Women’s Board of Barrow Neurological Foundation, our largest cumulative donor. Simultaneously, we are entering the home stretch in the career of our distinguished leader of more than 30 years, Robert Spetzler, MD, who has designated July 1, 2017, as the day he will be stepping down from his role of President and CEO at Barrow, and will be hanging up his scrubs from his long, esteemed neurosurgical career.

In addition to running a nationwide search to identify the best possible leader for Barrow and making sure all systems are in place for a smooth succession in leadership, Dr. Spetzler’s team has been fine-tuning the vision for Barrow’s future growth and accomplishment. This includes a recent flurry of recruitment to attract amazing five-star clinical and research leaders—some of the best and brightest in the world of neuroscience. The vision calls for expanded physical space to accommodate integrated growth and collaboration at Barrow, and to create prominent user-ability and visibility for patients. Overall, the vision will drive the growing success of Barrow, allowing it to remain a leader of treatment and research for the most debilitating neurological diseases known to humankind.

At the foundation, we have been working with Barrow leadership to assess funding needs and opportunities associated with achieving Dr. Spetzler’s vision. We are carefully identifying the fundraising objectives to meet the ambitious yet fully achievable goals, working quietly to design a critical comprehensive campaign that will provide catalyst and capacity for funding these goals, as well as honor the extraordinary leadership accomplishments of Dr. Spetzler. It is only fitting that we all come together to work in unison to support the potential for this next generation while building upon Barrow’s already existing successful foundation.

Terri Hoffman

Kristen Elnicky

Vice President, Development Terri.Hoffman@DignityHealth.org

Vice President, Operations Kristen.Elnicky@DignityHealth.org

Karen Bisko

Melissa Collins

Karen Thorn

Robyn Nebrich-Duda

Sandra Searle

Keith Kerber

Erik Stauber

Joyce Kalal

Senior Director Karen.Bisko@DignityHealth.org

Manager Melissa.Collins@DignityHealth.org

Christina Vanoverbeke

Director, Development Communications Christina.Vanoverbeke@DignityHealth.org

Director Karen.Thorn@DignityHealth.org

Director Robyn.Nebrich@DignityHealth.org

We anticipate entering the public phase of this campaign in a matter of months. In the meantime, if you desire early involvement or more information, please do not hesitate to reach out to one of our development team members identified on the following page. We do have a place for you in this vision!

Thank you for creating the opportunity for hope, health and healing for so many people by supporting us in the past. With your ongoing support, we can achieve an even greater vision for Barrow.

With sincere gratitude,

Terri Hoffman Vice President, Development Barrow Neurological Foundation

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Director Sandra.Searle@DignityHealth.org

Manager Keith.Kerber@DignityHealth.org

Director, Health & Wealth Raffle Erik.Stauber@DignityHealth.org

Additional Staff Alicia Cybulski, Funds Analyst Marilyn Dean, Coordinator Kathryn Dolbow, Coordinator Mandy Heath, Manager, Research and Development Alison Huebner, Staff Writer

Manager, Annual Giving Joyce.Kalal@DignityHealth.org

Vanessa Lao, Coordinator Wendy Manning, Coordinator Deirdre Rivard, Coordinator Barbara Small, Executive Assistant Drew Whitney, Staff Writer

Barrow Neurological Foundation’s fundraising professionals can assist you in fulfilling your philanthropic goals. Please call our office at 602.406.3041 or email one of the individuals above to discuss the many ways to support the programs and services of Barrow Neurological Institute. Our offices are located on the hospital campus at 124 W. Thomas Rd., Suite 250. We are open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Thank you for supporting the healing mission of Barrow!

Dignity Health Barrow Neurological Foundation 350 W. Thomas Rd. Phoenix, AZ 85013-4496 SupportBarrow.org

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