Richardson Regional Medical Center Foundation raises $5 million in capital

by PegNews wire

RICHARDSON — The Richardson Regional Medical Center Foundation has successfully completed its largest ever fundraising effort – the “Cancer Should Not Have the Last Word” capital campaign. On December 31, the final day of the campaign, an anonymous donor came forward with a major gift that helped the campaign surpass its $5 million goal.

“We were able to start the New Year with a celebration – it doesn’t get any better than that,” said Maria MacMullin, Richardson Regional Foundation’s Director of Development. “We owe our success in large part to the dedication of the campaign chairs and members of the committee who have spread awareness of the new Cancer Center to the Richardson community and beyond.”

The Foundation raised nearly $5.1 million through private contributions, corporate donations, and grants, including a $250,000 grant from The Meadows Foundation and a $1 million challenge grant from the Rees-Jones Foundation. The funds will support the new Richardson Regional Cancer Center, an affiliate of UT Southwestern Medical Center, which opened in October at the hospital's Bush/Renner Campus. The Cancer Center will bring advancements in cancer treatment by expanding medical, surgical and radiation oncology, clinical research, genetic counseling, patient education and support services in one convenient location.

“Raising this money was a labor of love for me,” said cancer survivor and campaign chair Judy Martin. “I believe the Cancer Center is the future of Richardson. With its advanced technology, exceptional physicians and staff, and the leadership of Medical Director Barry Levinson, M.D., the Cancer Center will lead the way for new and novel cancer treatment right here at home.”

Thanks to generous donors, the Cancer Center features unique artwork to help inspire and heal patients, including an angel sculpture in the courtyard, hand-blown glass clouds suspended from the main entrance ceiling, an indoor wall of water in the lobby, and a meditation room on the second floor. An art case displays images and items related to Lance Armstrong’s cycling career, along with items related to the WildRide! Against Cancer, the Foundation’s annual bike rally charity event.

Source: Richardson Regional Medical Center