FRIENDS Magazine Fall 2010 - Banner Health

A P U B L I C A T I O N F O R T H E B E N E F A C T O R S O F B A N N E R H E A L T H
A Mother’s Fight:
The genetics of
Alzheimer’s disease
spur one mother
to action
Banner Health Foundation Fall 2010

PHOTOGRAPH BY: PAULSON PHOTO/GRAPHIC
Top left: Shopping to Remember
luncheon benefiting Banner
Alzheimer’s Institute, page 14.
Middle: Fighting against the
genetics of Alzheimer’s disease,
page 20. Bottom left: Children’s
Safety Fair, page 18. Center: Jill
Alanko, daughter of Laura Dreier,
namesake of the Laura Dreier
Breast Center at Banner Good
Samaritan Medical Center, and
her husband, Bert, at the 2009
Candlelight Capers Ball
benefiting the Laura Dreier
Breast Center.

A PUBLICATION FOR THE BENEFACTORS OF BANNER HEALTH
FRIENDS
Chairman’s Letter 3
Tribute to Ken Van Winkle 4
Foundation News 6
Poison Center: Saving Lives 12
Events 14
A Mother’s Fight Against Alzheimer’s 20
Nomis Foundation Gift 24
Mission to Colombia 26
A global research endeavor
David Walsh Cancer Center 28
Honoring a son’s memory
Kemper and Ethel Marley
Foundation Gift 31
Health Care Heroes 32
Gila River Funds Pediatrics 33
Board Spotlights 34
Sharon Harper, Banner Health Foundation
Neal Kurn, Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation
First Things First 36
Benefactor Listings & Spotlights 38
on the cover – Suzanne Hilton, Banner
Alzheimer’s Foundation board member and founding
member of the Women’s Council of the Banner Alzheimer’s
Institute, with her children, Sophie (9) and Harrison (5 ½).
Suzanne, whose mother is currently living with
Alzheimer’s disease, fears the genetic implications. Rather
than stand by, she’s doing her part to help end this
devastating disease.
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Banner Health
Foundation Mission
Banner Health Foundation
secures and stewards
charitable contributions to
advance Banner Health’s
mission to make a difference
in people’s lives through
excellent patient care.

dear friends
‘‘
Thank you, my friends, for
your confidence in our stewardship
and for your continued faith in
Banner Health and its mission to
make a difference in people’s lives.
”
THIS IS MY final letter as chairman of the
Banner Health Foundation board of directors. For
the past four years, I have had the privilege of
helping to shape the Foundation and, ultimately,
its impact on everyone who enters a Banner
Health hospital. It has been a tremendously
rewarding experience, and one that I am
immensely proud of. While I may be closing the
book on my chairmanship, Banner is merely
turning the page in its own book.
Please join me in welcoming Sharon Harper,
president and CEO of The Plaza Companies, as
she prepares to assume the role of chairwoman
of the Banner Health Foundation board of
directors in January. Sharon’s passion, dedication
as a member of the Foundation’s board of
directors and experience leading one of the
state’s top real estate development, investment
and management firms will, undoubtedly, help
build upon our legacy of philanthropic success.
Like each of you, she has been instrumental in
Banner’s overall success as an organization.
Earlier this year, Banner Health was named
one of the nation’s Top 10 Health Systems by
Thomson Reuters for clinical excellence. This
designation was followed by an announcement
that U.S.News & World Report recognized Banner
Good Samaritan Medical Center as one of
“America’s Best Hospitals” in six specialty areas.
These honors are a reflection of the
dedication of Banner’s employees, the
commitment of its volunteers and the generosity
of you, its loyal supporters. Your contributions
make possible things like building new hospitals,
expanding vital community health programs and
discovering innovative ways to treat and care for
those in need.
Ken Van Winkle
Inside, you’ll find illustrations of people
and organizations that are, in their own
ways, helping to shape Banner’s future. I
encourage you to read the heartfelt story of a
couple that chose to honor their son’s life
and legacy with a gift to Banner on page 28. I
invite you to turn to page 26 to learn about
how, through philanthropic support, the key
to Alzheimer’s prevention is being sought
half way around the world. I hope the stories
told throughout this issue inspire you just as
they inspired me.
Thank you, my friends, for your
confidence in our stewardship and for your
continued faith in Banner Health and its
mission to make a difference in people’s lives.
Congratulations on being such an
important part of one the nation’s best
health systems!
Sincerely,
Ken Van Winkle
Chairman of the Board
Banner Health Foundation
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Thank You, from Banner Health
Ken Van Winkle, chairman of the Banner Health Foundation
board of directors, will end his four-year term in December.
The role of chairman of any nonprofit organization
comes with much responsibility. Those who accept the
challenge typically have a few short years in which to
spearhead initiatives that have a lasting impact. For the
past four years, Banner Health Foundation has been
fortunate to call Ken Van Winkle chairman of its board of
directors. Under his leadership, we have experienced great
philanthropic rewards, reached many milestones and
paved the way for future success.
One of the things we’re most grateful for is Ken’s
ability to focus on strategies for long-term success. His
vision helped transform the Foundation from an
organization that focused on fundraising through events
to a more comprehensive fundraising institution. This
shift required recruiting additional board members who
share an understanding of philanthropy’s impact on our
community. Ken has been instrumental in bringing
experienced, engaged individuals to the table.
With the right people in place, he turned his
attention to helping build the Foundation’s first strategic
plan. His unbiased assessment and recommendations
led to a plan that ensures our areas of fundraising focus
continue to align with the needs and priorities of
Banner Health.
Through it all, Ken has challenged us to be better, to
remain flexible and to adapt to today’s economic
environment. In doing that, he has helped us reach new
heights. Among the most notable accomplishments of
Ken’s chairmanship is the successful execution of
Banner’s first capital campaign effort. The Through the Eyes
of a Child Capital Campaign to build the new Cardon
Children’s Medical Center on the Banner Desert campus
raised more than $21 million, which included a generous
contribution from the Van Winkle family.
Knowing that one capital campaign can’t possibly
meet all the health care needs of our community, Ken
helped lay the groundwork for our next campaign. The
campaign to help make the new Banner MD Anderson
Cancer Center a reality is underway. Thanks to Ken’s
connections and commitment to improving the health and
well-being of our community, the campaign got a celebrity
boost when Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Larry
Fitzgerald signed on as honorary chair.
As we prepare to say farewell to Ken as chairman, we
thank him for his leadership, his enthusiasm and his drive
to improve the quality of health care in our community.
His philanthropic vision and dedication to the Banner
Health mission will continue as he will remain a member
of the Banner Health Foundation board of directors.
4 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Opposite page, top left: At a
2009 recognition brunch
honoring those whose
contributions to the Through
the Eyes of a Child Capital
Campaign helped make the
new Cardon Children’s
Medical Center a reality.
Middle: At the 2007
Safeway International LPGA
Golf Tournament. Right:
With Supermodel Cindy
Crawford at a May 2009
ceremony to unveil the new
Cardon Children’s Medical
Center name. This page:
Holly and Ken Van Winkle
during a private reception
for Banner Health supporters
at their home in 2007.
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foundation
news
6 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Banner School-Based
Health Centers
Desert Schools’ support keeping
school children healthy
For more than 70 years,
Desert Schools Federal Credit
Union has been a trusted
community partner, both as a
strong financial institution
and as a community advocate.
The organization is guided by
its “Big Four” core values. One such value—
taking action for positive change in the
community—is the cornerstone of Desert
Schools’ philanthropic endeavors, including
its continued support of Banner Health.
Since 2005, Desert Schools, a not-for-profit
cooperative, has been an annual supporter
of the Banner School-Based Health Centers
program. A unique collaboration between
Banner Health and the local public school
system, the program provides primary
health care services to an estimated 3,000
school children each year. Recognizing the
important role good health plays in a
child’s ability to learn and excel in school,
Desert Schools’ signed on to support
Banner School-Based Health Centers
five years ago.
To extend the reach of its community
involvement, Desert Schools encourages
employees to lend a hand for positive
change by serving as “CommuniTeam
Volunteers.” Each year, hundreds of
employee volunteers span the Valley to
donate their time doing such good work as
renovating homes, cooking dinner for
homeless youths, participating in
fundraising walks and mentoring
underserved children. In 2007, Desert
Schools employees dedicated more than
2,200 hours to community service projects
valued at $40,000.
To pay it forward, the organization
awards $20,000 in community service
scholarships to area high school students
who demonstrate academic excellence and
a strong dedication to the community.
We’re proud to call Desert Schools
Federal Credit Union our partner.
Opposite page: Virginia
Backman, a primary care
nurse practitioner in the
Banner School-Based
Health Centers program,
sees and cares for school
children of all ages facing
an array of health
conditions ranging from
asthma and strep throat
to ear infections and pink
eye. She and her fellow
program providers care for
an estimated 3,000
children each year.
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foundation
news
Banner School-Based
Health Centers:
Community Impact
A gift
from Arizona’s
oldest charitable partner
With the support of companies like Desert Schools Federal Credit
Union, Banner Health is providing primary health care services to
school-age children throughout the greater Phoenix metropolitan area
through its Banner School-Based Health Centers program.
More than 50 percent of children seen by a Banner
School-Based Health Center provider in 2009 were referred
to a specialty care provider—a stark reminder that many
children with health conditions requiring medical
attention would go untreated without the program.
Earlier this year, Delta Dental made an in-kind
contribution to provide toothbrushes, toothpaste, floss
and dental hygiene information to children seen by
program providers in an effort to promote good oral
hygiene. A great illustration of working together to
promote the health and wellness of our community!
The Board of Visitors has been serving the health care
needs of women, children and the elderly in the greater
Phoenix Metropolitan area for more than a century. This
year, Banner Health Foundation became a first-time
recipient of funding from what is the oldest charitable
organization in Arizona.
In January, representatives from The Board of Visitors
made a generous $50,000 gift in support of Banner School-
Based Health Centers to help support the delivery of
primary health care services to elementary school children
who lack insurance and access to regular care.
Debra Cain, chairwoman of The Board of Visitors,
explained the group’s reason for supporting the program
saying, “Their ability to provide free, high quality health
care to over 3,000 uninsured children certainly reflects the
mission of The Board of Visitors.”
The Board of Visitors began in 1907 when Reverend J.
W. Atwood founded “St. Luke’s Home,” a tuberculosis
sanatorium that housed 20 patients in second-hand tents.
The home received financial support and expertise from 16
town businessmen who became the first Board of Trustees.
From its original 16 members, The Board of Visitors has
grown into an organization supported by 180 volunteers
who collectively raise more than $750,000 each year to
support the health care needs of our community.
Having the support and endorsement of The Board of
Visitors is a testament to the impact Banner School-Based
Health Centers has on our community.
Ken Van Winkle,
chairman of the Banner
Health Foundation
Board of Directors
presents Ann Rathwell,
Board of Visitors
volunteer, with a
framed thank you card
from a grateful family
served by the Banner
School-Based Health
Centers program.
8 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Donations help those in crisis
$584,000 in contributions support
Banner Psychiatric Center
When faced with a medical emergency,
we often turn to the nearest emergency
department knowing the doctors and
nurses have the skills and resources to
bandage and stitch our ailment. But what
about those facing behavioral health
emergencies Often, they turn to hospital
emergency departments only to find that
staff is not equipped to provide the level of
psychiatric care and attention needed.
In January 2010, the Banner Health
Foundation board of directors approved
the use of $584,000 in charitable
contributions to help fund a $2.2 million
renovation project that created the Banner
Psychiatric Center.
Opened in August on the campus
of Banner Behavioral Health Hospital
in Scottsdale, Banner Psychiatric
Center is staffed 24/7 with physicians,
nurse practitioners, RNs, behavioral
health technicians and counselors
who collaborate to deliver
comprehensive behavioral
health services.
The board’s decision to
allocate donations to the Banner
Psychiatric Center is just another
example of stewarding contributions
to those programs that have the
highest priority and constitute the
best use of funds for our community.
Olga Bender,
longtime
supporter of
Banner Health,
left a legacy
with a generous
$50,000 estate
gift to Banner
Heart Hospital.
Grateful patient
leaves a
Legacy
Life is about planning. We plan our
day-to-day activities. We plan for our
future. We plan for those who will carry
on after we’re gone. Often, it’s in making
those plans that we think about leaving
our mark on the world—and the legacy
we’ll leave behind. For Olga Bender, a
longtime Mesa resident, philanthropist
and Banner Heart Hospital patient, her
legacy is one of community service.
Olga’s Mesa roots ran deep. For
years, she and her husband, Sam, owned
and operated Bender Appliances, a
mainstay on Main Street. Together, they
worked to improve the community they
called home. In fact, Olga and Sam, along
with a few of their Leisure World
neighbors, first conceived of and
promoted building a hospital in the far
East Valley. Those first planning meetings
were held in their living room. In 1984,
Valley Lutheran, known today as Banner
Baywood Medical Center, opened its doors.
In addition to their ongoing support
of Banner Health, one of the couple’s
most notable contributions came in the
form of a generous donation to the East
Valley Institute of Technology, a tuitionfree
training institution that provides
approximately 40 occupation-specific
programs for students in public high
schools throughout the East Valley.
In April, Olga passed away at the age
of 89. Among her final gifts was a $50,000
planned gift to Banner Health Foundation
on behalf of Banner Heart Hospital.
Olga Bender definitely left her
mark—and a legacy to be proud of.
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foundation
news

Fry’s supports
Reaching Out program
Racing for a cure
Longstanding relationship with
Susan G. Komen a win-win for community
Pam Giannonatti, of Fry’s Food Stores with
Meiko Sims, senior manager of medical
imaging for the Laura Dreier Breast
Center/MRI at Banner Good Samaritan
Medical Center
The relationship between Banner Health and Komen
stems back to the early 90s when the two organizations
paired up to bring the first Race for the Cure to Phoenix in
October of 1993. The event drew 1,500 participants and raised
$65,000 to fund breast cancer education, screening and
treatment programs for the medically underserved and
uninsured in Arizona. Today, the event includes more than
30,000 participants and raises in excess of $2 million annually.
When the Phoenix Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the
Cure began its grants program in 1996, Banner was among the first recipients;
the organization has been awarded grant funding every year since. It was
through this support that the Reaching Out program at the Laura Dreier Breast
Center at Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center was born.
A comprehensive community resource, Reaching Out provides patient
screening and diagnostic mammography, intervention and treatment for
underserved women throughout the metropolitan Phoenix area. Komen funding
also supports the Banner Desert Cancer Center in providing life-saving breast
cancer treatment to underserved women in the community.
Banner donates all staff resources, materials and equipment for the
grant programs—a true illustration of teaming up to make a difference.
"Banner Health was a key partner in launching the inaugural Komen
Phoenix Race for the Cure in 1993, and the organization continues to be a major
player in Arizona's breast cancer movement by offering education, screening and
treatment services to hundreds of women each year,” said Dan Costello, board
president of Susan G. Komen for the Cure Phoenix Affiliate. “Banner exemplifies
Komen's Community Grants Program by putting our funds to work where the
need is greatest. We are proud to have a long-standing partnership with such an
excellent organization year after year."
Over the years, Banner Health has received more than $1.3 million in Komen
grant funding to provide the resources necessary for the early detection and
treatment of breast cancer.
The Reaching Out program at
the Laura Dreier Breast Center at
Banner Good Samaritan received
support this year when Fry’s Food
Stores made a $5,000 donation.
Through Pam Giannonatti,
manager of consumer/community
relations for Fry’s and grants director
on the board of the Phoenix Affiliate
of Susan G. Komen for the Cure,
Fry’s became acquainted with the
program and its efforts to help
women with little money or health
insurance receive free diagnosis and
treatment for breast cancer.
“Fry’s Food Stores is concerned
about our customers, employees
and neighbors battling breast
cancer,” said Fry’s President Jon
Flora. “We know that early detection
is key, and that it can be beaten if
caught early. For years, Fry’s has
supported several worthwhile
nonprofit organizations addressing
this serious issue through grants
and our VIP sponsorship of the Race
for the Cure.”
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Caring
for Colton
Banner Poison
Control Center:
By the numbers
• Received 108,000
calls in 2009
• Fielded 50,000
calls related to human
poisonings
• Responded to 13,000
calls about venomous
bites and stings
• Kids’ health issues
account for 20%
of calls
• Nearly 20,000
poisoning calls involved
kids 5 years or younger
• Approximately 50% of
calls involved questions
about adverse effects to
medications and drug
interactions
• More than 60% of
Arizona’s poison calls
come through the
Banner Good Samaritan
Poison and Drug
Information Center
• To reach the poison
center call
1-800-222-1222

Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug
Information Center credited with saving toddler’s life
Nineteen-month-old Colton Shreeve got more than he
expected while playing with a pile of toys on the living room
rug. The toddler was stung on the thumb by a yellow bark
scorpion, the most venomous scorpion in Arizona. Immediately,
he turned to his father saying, “Owie” and holding out his
thumb in hopes that daddy could make the pain stop.
With three-year-old twin girls and a toddler in the
house, Matt and Nicolle Shreeve keep the phone number to
the Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug Information
Center close by. The nurse on the other end of the line
coached Nicolle on what to do until emergency responders
arrived at her home.
With his breathing steady and no signs of imminent
danger, the paramedics left thinking Colton would be fine.
But, the venom continued to take hold of his little body. As
the minutes passed, he began drooling profusely and
rubbing his eyes furiously. His parents attributed the
behaviors to the sting, but expected them to subside. They
were confident that the paramedics wouldn’t have left if
there was anything to be concerned about.
As part of the Poison Center’s standard procedure, a
nurse called to follow up on Colton an hour after
Nicolle’s original call. It’s this little extra that Nicolle
credits with saving her son’s life.
“I explained what Colton was doing – drooling, pulling on his
ears and hair, and rubbing his eyes” said Nicolle. “He wasn’t
hysterical and that’s what we would have expected. I remember
the woman saying, ‘You don’t understand how serious this is, he
needs to get to the hospital.’ That’s when I knew it was bad.”
Matt and Nicolle rushed Colton to the Emergency department at
Cardon Children’s Medical Center, the very hospital where he was
born just 19 months earlier. With a heads up from their Banner
colleagues at the Poison Center, the medical team was ready for action.
“The ER doctor said it was a severe acute reaction to the
scorpion sting,” recalled Nicolle. “He was at 3.5 on a venom rating
that goes to four. I absolutely believe the Poison Center saved his
life. That second call made all the difference.”
Colton was given antivenom to counter the scorpion’s poison
and, as the drug took effect, his nervous system settled down,
eventually returning to normal.
Today, Colton Shreeve is a happy, healthy toddler whose
biggest excitement probably comes from chasing his older sisters.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY: RYAN GUZZETTA, AXIUM PHOTOGRAPHY
Poison Center:
Protecting Arizona
What do you do when your grandfather has an adverse
reaction to his prescription medication Where do you turn
when your toddler finds her way into the hazardous
cleaning supplies How do you handle a fresh scorpion
sting The Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug
Information Center can answer these questions and more.
Established in 1979, this free, 24-hour helpline
operated by Banner Health addresses poison-related
questions and concerns from Arizona residents. Staffed by
nurses trained in toxicology who are supported by medical
toxicologists, the Center can immediately provide poison
information and first aid treatment recommendations in
more than 150 languages.
More than 60 percent of Arizona’s poison center calls
come through the Banner Good Samaritan Poison and Drug
Information Center, making it the primary resource for
Banner Poison Control Center: 1-800-222-1222
Nicolle, Payson,
Josslyn, Colton
and Matt Shreeve
information regarding accidental poisonings, chemical exposures, reactions
to medications and help with managing insect bites or stings. And, by
being integrated into the state’s 911 emergency and fire dispatch
systems, the Center enables thousands of people to be treated for minor
concerns in their own homes rather than requiring the dispatch of
emergency medical responders or a trip to the hospital. In 2009, more
than 37,000 potential poisonings were able to be managed over the phone
rather than in busy emergency rooms, ultimately saving the community
$30 million.
This vital community resource is made possible by charitable
contributions, funding from the state and underwriting from Banner Health.
As call volumes rise year after year, the need for support continues to grow.
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events
‘Shopping to Remember’
makes fundraising Fashionable
In April, the Women’s Council
of the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute,
a group of women dedicated to
raising funds and awareness on
behalf of the Institute, hosted
Shopping to Remember, a fashioninspired
fundraiser that generated $13,000 in support of
programs and services for Alzheimer’s disease patients
and their families.
The luncheon and shopping affair dubbed “retail
therapy” attracted more than 100 guests who sipped
mimosas and sangria while perusing and purchasing
merchandise from an array of specialty boutiques catering
to fashions for women and children.
Shopping to Remember is a precursor to the annual A
Night to Remember tasting and cocktail event held every fall.
The 4th annual A Night to Remember, co-chaired by
Women’s Council members Peggy Federico and Amy
Goff, was held October 23 at P.F. Chang’s at the
Scottsdale Waterfront.
14 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Counter clockwise from top: Kelly Kindors and Angela
Sommer purchase items at the Shopping to Remember
luncheon in support of Banner Alzheimer’s Institute. Michelle
Norton, Kate Robinson and Heidi O’Brien of Heidi Boutique
display jewelry and accessories sold at the event. Banner
Alzheimer’s Foundation President and CEO Andy Kramer with
Peggy Federico, Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation board
member and member of the Women’s Council of the Banner
Alzheimer’s Institute. 2010 A Night to Remember co-chairs
Amy Goff and Peggy Federico.
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events
NFL Legend
returns to Cardon Children’s
In April, NFL Hall of Fame quarterback Steve Young, namesake of the
Forever Young Foundation, and his wife, Barbara, held a private reception
inside the Forever Young Zone at Cardon Children’s Medical Center.
This treatment-free fun zone in which pediatric patients of all
ages can socialize, enjoy performances from local music and theater
groups, or even host their own activities was made possible by an
incredibly generous $1 million contribution from Forever Young
Foundation in partnership with Swift Charities for Children.
Their first time inside the Forever Young Zone since it was
completed in November of 2009, the Youngs were impressed with
the look and versatility of the space that reminds each child to
“Be Your Own Hero.”
Former Arizona Cardinal
delivers a big win for pediatric patients
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Leinart (left) and his brother Ryan
Leinart joined by Banner Health Foundation President and CEO Andy
Kramer during a private kick-off event for the 2nd Annual Matt Leinart
Foundation Celebrity Golf Classic.
Houston Texans quarterback Matt Leinart may no longer be
playing in Arizona, but his heart and his passion remain in helping
our children.
Through his personal foundation, the athlete generously
pledged $500,000 to the Through the Eyes of a Child Capital Campaign
to help build the new Cardon Children’s Medical Center. Since then,
he has hosted two star-studded golf tournaments to support his
commitment to the hospital.
The most recent tournament was held in April. The 144 golfers
and scores of supporters including Nick Lachey, Cedric Ceballos,
Phil Hellmuth, Jr., and Alice Cooper were welcomed with a VIP kickoff
celebration at the W Scottsdale compliments of 944 Magazine.
In addition to Leinart’s generous financial support, he and his
family regularly visit Cardon Children’s. From appearing as “Santa’s
helpers” and surprising patients during the holidays to purchasing
toys and equipment for the Child Life program and even dishing up
Cold Stone Creamery ice cream, the Matt Leinart Foundation is
truly making a difference in the lives of Arizona’s children.
16 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Nursing an investment in
scholarships: excellent patient care
Center: Tony Jannetti, Banner
Health Foundation board
member and namesake of the
Jannetti/Marriott Nursing
Scholarship, surrounded by the
2010 scholarship recipients.
Tony Jannetti is an advocate for advanced
education. As someone who has made a career out of
publishing textbooks, many for the nursing industry,
he has to be. But, it’s not his profession that sets him
apart. Rather, it’s his passion.
A longtime member of the Banner Health
Foundation board of directors, Tony is acutely aware of
the need for continued education among nurses. In a
pledge to help advance the skills and careers of nurses
at Banner Health, he, along with the Marriott
Corporation, funds the Anthony J. Jannetti/Marriott
Nursing Scholarship.
Available to registered nurses at Banner who wish to
pursue advanced degrees in the field, the scholarship is
awarded annually to those who demonstrate outstanding
vision and a passion for nursing.
Since the program’s inception in 1995, 118 Banner Health
nurses have been awarded scholarships. This year’s recipients
were recognized during a special ceremony in May at the J.W.
Marriott Desert Ridge Resort.
The 2010 Jannetti/Marriott Nursing Scholarship recipients
include: Neeta Chethikattil, Debra Lemanager, Sharon
Heronema-Garcia, Kimberly Wells, Christina Trifanoff, Lisa
Wayman, Kate Chatelain, Jerome DeGuzman and Kenneth Oja.
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events
18 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Children’s fair:
a fun way to promote pediatric safety
For 10 consecutive years, Banner Thunderbird Medical Center has
partnered with Glendale and Peoria Fire and Police departments to host
the Banner Thunderbird Children’s Safety Fair. This free, kid-friendly
community event helps educate families on an array of pediatric health
and safety topics ranging from fire, home and bicycle safety to healthy
eating, exercise and wellness habits.
With inflatable activity centers, face painting, live music and
performances by local dance teams and cheer squads, there’s much to
see and do. And, thanks to generous support from organizations like
Southwest Ambulance and BHHS Legacy Foundation, children 16 and
younger are fitted for free bicycle safety helmets as part of the hospital’s
Pediatric Injury Prevention Program.
At the end of the day, it’s about the fun of keeping kids safe!
Southwest Ambulance, a sponsor of the 10th annual Banner Thunderbird Children’s Safety Fair held
in February, gave children a sneak peek at the inside of an ambulance. Below, left: One little girl
was all smiles about the experience. Below, right: Bicycle helmet fittings are a key part of the event.
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The
genetics of
Alzheimer's
disease
compels a
mother to
action.
A oer’s
For 12 years, Suzi Hilton
has watched her mother, Ann Bey,
slowly transform from the smart,
capable, beautiful woman
she once was into a shell
of her former self.
ig
The culprit behind her devastating transformation
Alzheimer’s disease. Now a mother herself, Suzi can’t help
but wonder what the genetic implications of the disease mean
for her family. But rather than stand by watching and waiting,
she’s doing her part to help those who may hold the key to unlocking
a future without Alzheimer’s.
Witnessing her mother’s decline and accepting that her children
will never enjoy a traditional relationship with their grandmother has
given Suzi a profound perspective on life within the framework of
Alzheimer’s. While her children, Sophie (9) and Harrison (5 ½) may be
too young to fully understand the complexity of grandma’s condition,
they do know she’s sick.
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 21

She plannectivities
or us ~ ature alks,
rts and crafts.
The nasturtium
can symbolize
maternal love.
With each visit to see grandma in the Iowa care facility where she
lives comes a startling view of the disease’s toll. “I see the progression
so much more because there’s time in between our trips,” said Suzi.
“My mother would not want to be living like this.”
While one could easily be consumed by sadness and fear, Suzi
does what she can to enjoy her mother in the only ways possible. She
brushes her hair, shares the fun and exciting things her children
are doing, and records their visits to ensure she has something
to hold onto. Sadly, these home movies also serve to document
Ann’s progression through the disease.
One movie shows the kids hugging and kissing grandma
while she mumbles nonsensical words and phrases, including
repeated use of the word “Wowzer.” Harrison, about three at
the time, thought his grandmother was hysterically funny.
He latched onto the word and now, lovingly, refers to grandma
as “Wowzer.”
Capturing their time together and trying to find humor in what is
so often a humorless situation is one way Suzi and her family cope.
Another is by staying actively involved in the effort to prevent
Alzheimer’s disease. Given the genetic risk that she and her children
face, Suzi knows she’s fighting for her family’s future.
22 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Suzanne Hilton with her mother, Ann Bey, and family
“My mother is in the late stages of Alzheimer’s,” said Suzi.
“She’s not really even that responsive. I’ve accepted the fact that
there’s nothing that can be done to help her, so now I’m focusing
on what can be done to help myself and my children.”
The Institute’s mission of ending Alzheimer’s disease without
losing another generation hits incredibly close to home for Suzi.
It motivates her in so many ways.
As an original member of the Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation
board of directors, she, along with her husband, Steve, is confident
that a world without Alzheimer’s disease will soon be realized.
She’s equally confident that the researchers and physicians at
Banner Alzheimer’s Institute will be at the forefront of that
achievement. Her faith in their ability is unwavering—so much so
that she has spent years rallying support.
In addition to making a personal gift of $1 million to support
the Institute’s research endeavors, Suzi, a founding member of the
Women’s Council of the Banner Alzheimer’s Institute, works yearround
to help shine a spotlight on the Institute and the amazing
work being done there. She and her fellow Women’s Council
members, a dedicated group of women working tirelessly to raise
awareness and funds, host the annual A Night to Remember
cocktail, tasting and auction event to support the Institute.
For Suzi, helping to end Alzheimer’s disease is the greatest
gift she can offer her children.

24 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

Alzheimer’s
disease at
a glance
Banner
Alzheimer’s
Institute
leads global
research endeavor
An estimated 5.3 million
Americans now live with
Alzheimer’s disease.
The cost of their care
exceeds $170 billion
each year. When you
break down the
numbers, roughly 10
percent of those over
the age of 65 and
almost half of those
over age 85 have the
disease. By the time
today’s young adults
become senior citizens,
the numbers are
expected to quadruple,
thus affecting an
estimated 16 million
people and costing more
than $1 trillion annually.
Philanthropic support, collaboration key to success
The Nomis Stiftung Foundation (Nomis), a European-based
private foundation dedicated to promoting scientific research
focused on improving human life, made an incredibly generous
$3.5 million contribution in support of Banner Alzheimer’s
Institute and its groundbreaking work to organize and lead the
recently unveiled Alzheimer’s Prevention Initiative (API).
The API represents a global effort to uncover new therapies
that will effectively slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease as
well as those intended to prevent its onset. This incredibly
worthwhile undertaking has brought together an international
base of Alzheimer’s disease research scientists, physicians and
pharmaceutical companies to work collaboratively on the task at
hand—stopping Alzheimer’s disease in its tracks.
To do so, API researchers will launch clinical trials that offer
practical and powerful ways to test promising Alzheimer’s disease
therapies among individuals who have the highest risk of
developing Alzheimer’s disease but do not yet exhibit
memory and thinking problems. Remarkably, this is a new
venture in the study of Alzheimer’s disease prevention.
Success of the API requires the dedication of many.
Researchers and physicians must be driven by discovery.
Pharmaceutical companies must be passionate about the
purpose. Study participants must be committed to the
cause. And the world must be willing to endow the effort.
The Nomis Foundation has proven its dedication. With
its support, Banner Alzheimer’s Institute and API
collaborators are charting the world’s most rapid and
rigorous course to prevention.
To date, Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation has secured
approximately $8 million in funding for the API.
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 25

In the spring
of 2010, Dr. Eric
M. Reiman
and his colleague,
Dr. Pierre Tariot,
embarked on
an exploratory
mission to
Medellín, Colombia
as part of the
newly launched
Alzheimer’s
Prevention
Initiative (API)
Key to prevention
may be half way around the world
Tucked away in the northwestern corner of Colombia in the Andes
region of Antioquia lies the mountain town of Medellín where, for centuries,
an isolated group of extended families totaling nearly 5,000 individuals has
been enduring a seemingly endless and unbearable fate…early-onset
Alzheimer’s disease.
Unfortunately, we are all too familiar with the form of late-onset
Alzheimer’s disease that strikes seniors, but for those in Medellín, its ravage
takes hold in their 40s—for a rare few, it begins in their 30s.
In a cruel twist, parents are caring for and being forced to watch as their
grown children are robbed of their memories and abilities. For researchers
who have spent decades trying to uncover the cause of Alzheimer’s disease
and identify effective treatment and prevention therapies, this family may be
the best source of discovery.
In the spring of 2010, Dr. Eric M. Reiman, executive director of the Banner
Alzheimer’s Institute, and his colleague, Dr. Pierre Tariot, embarked on an
exploratory mission to Medellín. As part of the newly launched Alzheimer’s
Prevention Initiative (API), an international collaborative
effort to identify new disease-slowing and prevention
therapies, the trip was funded by contributions made to
Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation on behalf of the API.
The devastation Drs. Reiman and Tariot witnessed not
only confirmed the family’s important role in finding new
prevention therapies, but it also served as a stark reminder
of why now is the time to end Alzheimer’s disease…before
another generation is lost.
In 2010, Dr. Eric M. Reiman, executive director of the Banner
Alzheimer’s Institute, and his colleague Dr. Pierre Tariot, traveled to
Medellín, Colombia as part of a quest to identify new Alzheimer’s
disease prevention therapies. Their travels brought them face-to-face with a
large extended family of nearly 5,000 people that is plagued by a
devastating form of early-onset Alzheimer’s disease. The family is believed
to hold the key to Alzheimer’s prevention. Opposite page: Snapshots of Dr.
Reiman and Dr. Tariot’s visits with Alzheimer’s disease patients and
families in Medellín, Colombia.
26 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

O
o
C l b i A
M
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 27

Honorin
28 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

son ’s emor
Family’s $9.6 million gift
establishes David Walsh
Cancer Center
David Walsh, son of Frank and Gloria Walsh of Sterling, Colo., is
the namesake of the new David Walsh Cancer Center at Sterling
Regional MedCenter. David, who passed away following a
courageous battle against esophageal cancer in 1998, was an
avid outdoorsman. This breathtaking image is engraved at the
entrance of the center bearing his name.
“S terling has been good to us.”
That one statement of gratitude is the basis
for the generosity that Frank and Gloria Walsh have
shown to Sterling, Colorado, a rural farming
community in the northeastern corner of the state
that has been their home for nearly 55 years.
Frank and Gloria’s children and grandchildren
were raised in Sterling. While they spend a few
months in Scottsdale, Arizona every year, their
roots are in Sterling. So, it was no surprise that
when they chose to honor their son’s legacy by
establishing a state-of-the-art cancer center in his
name, they did so in the very community where he
lived, worked and played.
In December of 2008, Frank and Gloria made a
generous $9.6 million gift to Banner Health
Foundation to build the David Walsh Cancer Center
at Sterling Regional MedCenter. Opened in
September, the 8,600-square-foot center offers
outpatient treatment services including radiation
oncology, chemotherapy and infusion services,
tumor registry, a physicians’ clinic and a patient
education center. It serves as a satellite to the
Cancer Institute at North Colorado Medical
Center, a sister Banner Health facility located
approximately 100 miles west of Sterling.

For those with
cancer, time
is a precious
commodity.
David Walsh was the younger of Frank and Gloria’s two
sons. Happily married, he and his wife, Kathie, also had two
children. David was an upbeat, athletic and energetic man
who loved the outdoors and the community he called home.
In 1996, he was diagnosed with esophageal cancer at the
age of 41. Sadly, he lost his courageous battle against the
disease in 1998.
Throughout David’s two-year fight against cancer, he
found himself traveling back and forth for treatments in
Denver and Fort Collins, each more than 100 miles from
his home in Sterling. The time he spent traveling for
treatment invariably took a toll on David. Equally, it took a
toll on those who loved him.
At a groundbreaking ceremony for the cancer center in
2009, David’s oldest son, Carlin Walsh, recalled his father’s
experience noting that for those with cancer, time is a
precious commodity.
After witnessing firsthand the strain that results from
traveling far from home for treatment, Frank and Gloria
chose to build the David Walsh Cancer Center. Ultimately,
their generosity will ensure that others facing cancer have
more of what they truly need—time.
Frank and Gloria Walsh’s philanthropic
spirit is guided by a commitment, dedication
and desire to make Sterling a better place.
The David Walsh Cancer Center at Sterling
Regional MedCenter is by far their largest
contribution; however, they have found other
very meaningful ways to enhance the
community they call home.
Some of the other projects in Sterling
that Frank and Gloria have contributed
to include:
• Helping to fund a new dormitory for
students at Northeastern Junior College;
• Financially supporting a project to
remodel the Sterling Public Library;
• Building a park and swimming pool for
a community that lacked such outdoor
recreation; and
• Purchasing the Sterling Country Club –
including its 18-hole golf course and
full-service restaurant – and donating
it to Northeastern Junior College to
expand the scope of educational
programs for students to include
courses related to golf course
management, the culinary arts
and more.

$1 Million Gift
to Banner Alzheimer’s Institute
supports family caregivers
The staff at Banner Alzheimer’s Institute is
proud to serve as a comprehensive resource helping
families and care providers of those living with Alzheimer’s
navigate through the continuum of the disease. Earlier this
year, the Institute’s robust Family and Community Services
program received a much needed boost when The Kemper
and Ethel Marley Foundation, a private family foundation
dedicated to supporting Arizona residents, awarded a
$1 million grant to benefit the varied counseling, education
and non-medical services that are so critical to caring for
those with Alzheimer’s.
The Family and Community Services program of the Banner
Alzheimer’s Institute provides Alzheimer’s disease patients and their
families with a wide range of support resources including counseling,
education, support and outreach programs.
Supported largely through philanthropy, the
Family and Community Services program provides
one-on-one counseling support for caregivers;
recreational opportunities through the privatelyfunded
Arts Engagement program that enables
patients and their care providers to experience
museums, theater productions and musical
performances; and educational support from clinicians
and physicians trained in Alzheimer’s disease and
other dementias.
BAI’s commitment to serving both the medical and
non-medical needs of patients and their families aligns
with The Kemper and Ethel Marley Foundation’s
mission to support programs that foster arts and
culture, health and human services, education, and
medical research and facilities.
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 31

health care
heroes
Health Care
Heroes among us
Dr. Wallace Reed, honorary member of the Banner
Alzheimer’s Foundation board of directors and generous
supporter of Banner Health, was recognized in August with
the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Phoenix Business
Journal’s 9th annual Health Care Heroes Awards breakfast.
For decades, Dr. Reed has devoted his time, talent and
treasure to improving health care in Arizona. Today, much of
his attention is given to helping those touched by Alzheimer's
disease, but in the late 1960s and early 1970s, he played an
instrumental role in reshaping the way surgical care is
delivered in this country.
In 1969, Dr. Reed and his colleague, Dr. John Ford, did the
legwork to launch what was, at the time, a revolutionary step in
Dr. Reed (center) with Dick Hannon, senior vice president, Marketing &
Provider Affairs, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Arizona (right) and Don
Henninger, Publisher, Phoenix Business Journal.
reforming health care: outpatient ambulatory surgery
centers. Together, they looked at how surgeries were being
performed and then formulated a plan to address and correct
what they felt were gross inefficiencies in the process.
They spent months crafting rules for a non-hospital
same-day surgery center model and then lobbied for
acceptance from the Arizona Legislature, local physicians
and surgeons, medical boards and insurance companies.
In February of 1970, they opened the Surgicenter in
downtown Phoenix, the nation's first such facility. They
32 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

also took an active role in founding the Federated Ambulatory Surgery
Association, now known as the Ambulatory Surgery Center
Association.
Today, there are more than 5,000 ambulatory surgery centers in the
United States performing more than 22 million procedures each year.
After Dr. Reed retired from medicine, he faced a new challenge to
care for his wife Maria, who was in the early stages of Alzheimer’s
disease. As a caretaker, Dr. Reed became involved with the Banner
Alzheimer’s Foundation, helping to create the board of directors,
provide input in crafting its strategic plan and serve in an advisory role.
His generosity of time is matched only by his financial support, ensuring
that individuals and families have the care and support they need.
The vision and passion Dr. Reed demonstrated throughout his
career and even now, as an advocate for Alzheimer's disease care,
treatment and research and the philanthropic support that propels
these efforts, is a worthy illustration of a lifetime filled with health
care achievements.
Banner volunteers recognized for being
Health Care Heroes
In addition to Dr. Wallace Reed being named the Health Care
Heroes Life Achievement Award winner, three other Banner Health
volunteers were recognized as finalists.
(l to r): Eleanore Strasser, Health Care Volunteer category (Banner Boswell Medical
Center); Ruth Johnson, Health Care Volunteer category (Banner Baywood Medical
Center); Dr. Wallace Reed; Carol Peterson, Banner Benefactor and founder of the
“Golf is Where the Heart Is” fundraiser, Service Philanthropy Category (Banner
Heart Hospital)
Banner Desert CEO Todd Werner; Councilman Devin
Redbird; Gila River Program Administrator Cheryl
Pablo; Arizona Governor Jan Brewer; and Banner
Health President and CEO Peter S. Fine
Gila River Indian
Community
helps fund pediatric
health care need
The Gila River Indian Community made
a generous $500,000 contribution to support
the continued expansion of pediatric services
at Cardon Children’s Medical Center. The gift
was announced with a check presentation
during a dedication ceremony marking the
hospital’s opening in November 2009.
The tribal community, which has called
the Southeast Valley home for more than a
century, is a huge proponent of bringing
specialized pediatric health care to its
residents.
During the check presentation,
Councilman Devin Redbird and Cheryl Pablo,
Gila River program administrator shared their
excitement about the new hospital that, due
to its proximity, will serve many children from
the Gila River Indian Community.
The gift highlights how our community is
coming together to meet the pediatric health
care needs of children in Arizona.
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 33

spotlight
Sharon Harper
BANNER HEALTH FOUNDATION
BOARD MEMBER, INCOMING CHAIR
SHARON HARPER has been recognized as
“Who’s Who of the Decade” by the Phoenix
Business Journal. She clearly has excelled in
the commercial real estate industry in
Arizona and is a passionate leader in the
community. Sharon is co-founder, president
and chief executive officer of The Plaza
Companies, a premier Arizona-based real
estate development, investment and
management firm specializing in medical
office/health care, biotechnology facilities
and senior housing. In addition to leading
this vibrant organization, Sharon generously
gives her time and talent to Banner Health
Foundation and several other important
organizations including, the Virginia G. Piper
Charitable Trust, Arizona Community
Foundation, Brophy College Preparatory,
Greater Phoenix Economic Council (GPEC)
Creighton University College of Medicine,
Arizona Campus and the Executive Board of
Greater Phoenix Leadership (GPL).
As Sharon prepares to take the helm
of the Banner Health Foundation board of
directors as chairwoman beginning in 2011,
FRIENDS decided it was a prime opportunity
to share more about her life, her work and
her long-standing relationship with
Banner Health.
Share with our readers a bit of your background and what brought you to
the Valley.
I was born and raised in Minnesota and later received a degree in journalism
from Creighton University. There, I met my future husband, a medical student
named Oliver Harper. We relocated to Arizona for his postgraduate training at
Good Samaritan Hospital (now Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center) and
that is how we became “Arizonans.” In 1982, I co-founded The Plaza
Companies, which is now a vibrant state-wide and diverse real estate
development, investment and management firm with dynamic employees.
With primary focus in the areas of medical/health care, bioscience facilities
and senior living communities, the future of The Plaza Companies is bright.
It seems that Banner Health has played a big role in your life, both
personally and professionally.
Absolutely! We have a long-standing, close relationship with Banner Health.
As I mentioned, Ollie did his postgraduate training at Good Samaritan and
later co-founded the Arizona Medical Clinic in the Northwest Valley. In 2007,
Arizona Medical Clinic became part of the Banner family, so Ollie returned to
Banner. My business, The Plaza Companies, has had a strategic relationship
with Banner for many years. We own and/or manage several medical office
buildings on and near the hospital campuses of Banner Estrella, Banner
Thunderbird, Banner Del E. Webb and Banner Boswell. Now, our family ties
to Banner Health are extending to our children. We recently learned that our
daughter, Lise, a recent graduate of the Creighton University College of
Medicine, will be heading to Banner Good Samaritan as an Internal Medicine
resident this year! Banner Health has been with our family in some way,
shape or form for many years.
Tell me a little bit more about your family and your home life.
When we first moved to Phoenix, we moved into an apartment not far from
Banner Good Samaritan, and we have been in North Central Phoenix since.
We love the culture and the ambiance of this neighborhood and take every
opportunity to walk on the Murphy Bridle path – one of this city’s true gems.
We have five amazing children who live in Arizona, Colorado, San Francisco and
San Paulo, Brazil. Our pets include a chocolate Labrador Retriever and two
Yorkshire Terriers.
34 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

spotlight
With all of your responsibilities and
community involvement, what made you
decide to take on this new leadership role
with Banner Health Foundation
I have had a personal and passionate
commitment to the health care industry
throughout Arizona as it was closely linked
with the mission of The Plaza Companies. I am
particularly proud to be a part of what is
happening at Banner Health, and it seemed
natural for me to help take this organization to
the next level. I am inspired by the significant
and incredible work that the leadership of
Banner has exemplified in our community. It
has built strong and lasting relationships with
its physicians and is constantly working to
bring the best of the world’s medical expertise
to the Valley. The dynamic and innovative
programs in Alzheimer’s disease/dementia,
cardiology, cancer care and so many others
have touched countless lives. The accessibility
and quality of Banner Health is what draws
me to this organization and this role.
What is your vision for the future of Banner
Health Foundation
Banner Health Foundation’s board is
populated with exceptional community leaders
who are devoted and enthusiastic. I foresee
our board working even more collaboratively
to support the mission and vision of Banner
Health and its leadership. I believe that by
strengthening our existing relationships and
fostering new ones, we can not only provide
excellent patient care for those in Arizona,
but make our state an even better one in
which to live.
Would you like to leave our readers with any
final thoughts about Banner Health and
Banner Health Foundation
I welcome Arizona residents as a whole to
support quality health care in our region.
Together, we can make a difference that we
could never achieve individually. My goal is to
broaden the number of people who will be
active participants in Arizona’s health care
community. I know that by doing this and
working together, we will all feel a sense of
accomplishment and ownership in the health
and well being of all Arizonans.
Neal Kurn
BANNER ALZHEIMER’S
FOUNDATION
BOARD MEMBER
NEAL KURN is a bit of a loyalist. Born in Massachusetts, his family
traveled west to Tucson in 1948. There, Neal attended junior high, high
school, college and eventually law school. The last 47 years of his life
have been spent practicing tax law with an emphasis in estate
planning at Fennemore Craig, a premiere firm in Phoenix celebrating
its 125th anniversary this year. When Neal makes a commitment to
something he believes in, he sticks with it. In 2006, he became an
advocate for Banner Health and the newly formed Banner Alzheimer’s
Institute by becoming a founding member of the Banner Alzheimer’s
Foundation board of directors.
We sat down with Neal to learn more about his life and his
commitment to Banner Health.
Growing up in Tucson, did you always know you wanted to practice law
Actually no. Between college and law school I worked as an accountant in
addition to spending two years in the United States Army, stationed at
The Presidio in San Francisco. I hated being an accountant, so when a
friend suggested I go back to law school, I did just that. It was during law
school at the University of Arizona that I found my professional calling. I
am one of the lucky few who truly enjoy my job and feel privileged to work
for a firm with such a rich history in Arizona.
Did you ever give any thought to leaving Arizona
I am definitely an “Arizonan” at heart. Having lived here for so many years,
first in the Biltmore area and now in Central Phoenix, I can’t imagine living
anywhere else. I was blessed to be married to Bobby Agron for 51 years
and raise three wonderful children here. Sadly, Bobby passed away about a
year and half ago, but together we saw our four grandchildren come into
continued on page 37
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 35

first things first
Child development:
Putting ‘first
things first’
Banner Health Foundation has been awarded a
$971,182 grant from the First Things First Southeast Maricopa
Regional Council in support of the Pregnancy, Parenting and
Play program at Cardon Children’s Medical Center.
Operated by the hospital’s Child Development
department, Pregnancy, Parenting and Play ensures that
individuals in the Southeast Valley identified as being
underserved have access to the resources for a healthy
pregnancy, receive parenting support, and are provided
guidance on improving the health and early development of
their children.
Child development specialists from Cardon Children’s and
neighboring Banner hospitals reach out to pregnant women
and families in their homes, assist them in securing prenatal
care and provide information and guidance related to
parenting, child development, literacy and nutrition. The
program’s robust menu of services also includes health
screenings, parenting groups, development classes and
information on additional community resources.
In 2009, Banner Health Foundation secured an $809,000
grant from First Things First to launch the program. The
agency’s renewal of funding underscores the importance of
investing in a child’s early years.
To date, 281 families have been served through Pregnancy,
Parenting and Play.
Funding First Things First
First Things First is a state agency funded by an $.80 tax on tobacco
products that was enacted in 2006 following passage of Proposition 203.
Ninety percent of every dollar generated by the tax directly benefits
communities in Arizona. Funding decisions are based on recommendations
from 31 Regional Partnership Councils comprised of local leaders.
36 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

spotlight
Neal Kurn continued from page 35
this world and we were blessed to share time with them. I remarried earlier
this year, and my beautiful bride, Sue, loves Arizona as much as I do.
Over the years, I’ve been very active in the nonprofit community,
including serving as chairman of the Arizona Community Foundation,
working on the statewide Leave a Legacy program, sitting on the Arizona
Symphony Foundation board, and being involved in many aspects of the
local Jewish community.
What initiated your involvement with Banner Health
Mark Sklar, a good friend of mine and member of the Banner Health
board, asked that I join him in getting involved with the Banner Alzheimer’s
Institute when it was established in 2006. I recognized the need for this
kind of care for patients and families – not only in Arizona, but all over the
world. Obviously, I knew that Banner was a major health care provider in
Arizona, and I had experience as both a patient and family member of a
patient of Banner Good Samaritan. When being introduced to the Institute,
I was struck by the role that Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias has
on our aging population. I had friends and clients who were beginning to
feel the effects of this terrible disease. I was confident that Banner
Alzheimer’s Institute would be a priority for Banner moving forward, and we
had Drs. Eric Reiman and Pierre Tariot, two of the top Alzheimer’s disease
physicians in the country, to lead the way.
As a Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation Board member, what is your vision
for the Foundation and the Institute moving forward
My vision is the same as the Institute’s mission—to end Alzheimer’s
disease without losing another generation. Alzheimer’s is quickly becoming
the scourge of our society in so many ways. The impact on patients’ lives,
the emotional toll on family members and the financial demands of
treatment are all things that cannot be ignored. Add to that an aging
population and you’ve got a formula for disaster. I believe that Banner
Alzheimer’s Institute can delay, defer and eliminate Alzheimer’s disease. I
am proud of the work that has been accomplished in such a short period of
time and the impact it has on those in Arizona and the influence it has on
the international community.
What would you say to someone who asked you, “Why should I support
the Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation”
I would emphasize that Alzheimer’s disease is horribly taxing on patients,
families and society, and that the reduction and treatment of it is an
extremely important medical goal for our community and the world.
Banner Alzheimer’s Institute is leading the way in this vitally
important battle.
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 37

enefactors
A Message from
Benefactors Chairs 2010-2011
Craig &
Tracy Coppola
The more you learn about Banner Health, the more excited you become about everything it
does and can do in our community. Nowhere is this more evident than through Banner Health
Foundation’s premiere membership program, Banner Benefactors.
We are honored to be a part of this steadfast group of supporters who are true friends of Banner
Health and the backbone of this organization. Our Annual Banner Benefactors are those individuals
whose annual contributions total $1,000 or more. Lifetime Banner Benefactors have a cumulative
giving level of $25,000 or more.
As Banner Benefactor chairs, we acknowledge and thank all of our Benefactors for recognizing
the importance of supporting health care in our community. Your gifts are an investment in our
future, enabling us to move forward with new technologies, research initiatives, medical facilities
and care programs.
Thank you for the spirit of philanthropy you bring to Banner Health. We appreciate you, and
offer our sincere gratitude for your continued generosity and commitment to helping others.
38 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

enefactors
Annual
Banner Benefactors
Anonymous
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Ackerman
Ms. Claire Agnew
Dr. and Mrs. Stuart H. Agren
Gary and Rhonda Anderson
Mr. Glen Baker
Mr. and Mrs. Richard Bark
Mr. Mark Barkenbush
Mrs. Sherrie Beardsley
Drs. Marjorie and Scott Bessel
Mr. David M. Bixby
Mrs. Bonnie Blandford
Ms. Patricia Block
Thomas and Kathy Bollinger
Ms. Terry Bond
Ms. Janet M. Bor
Mr. James Brannon
Mrs. Toby Brink
Mr. and Mrs. Charles D. Broll
‘‘
I’ve always had a good feeling
about giving to Banner… my
money, my interest and time
support a great cause.
”
Don Cline – Lifetime Benefactor
We regret any errors or omissions due to printing deadlines.
Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Buehrle
James and Twila Burdick
Ms. Amy E. Burlager
Ms. Teresa Buttars
Ms. Barbara Cabrera
Mr. and Mrs. Richard W. Campbell
Mr. and Mrs. Bradley W. Campbell
Mr. and Mrs. Michael G. Campbell
Mr. and Mrs. Jose Cardenas
Ms. Kim Carkhuff
Wanda M. Casady
Salvatore F. Casano, M.D.
Richard and Gayle Cassidy
David and Carol Cheney
Mr. and Mrs. Paul J. Cody
Ms. Susan Colvin
Mr. and Mrs. Wesley L. Cooper
Ms. Bonnie Cope
Mr. and Mrs. R. Craig Coppola
Joan Cox
Mrs. Cassandra D. Crowe
Dr. and Mrs. Steven C. Curry
Mr. and Mrs. Paul Dabrowski
Mr. and Mrs. Carl Dahl
Mr. and Mrs. Dennis E. Dahlen
Scott and Sheri Dahlstrom
Douglas Dang, M.D.
Ms. Lisa Davis
Ms. Jean M. Davis
Mr. and Mrs. Jerry DeLand
Corey L. Detlefs, M.D.
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas C. Dickson
Mrs. Sally K. Dimond
Ms. Lisa J. Donald
David and Jan Dougherty
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Drozdowski
Ms. Paula Durston
Bill and Ruth Dwyer
Margaret E. Earle, M.D.
Dr. David B. Edwards and
Nancy Siegfried
Mr. Glenn Edwards
Mr. and Mrs. Kip Edwards
Randy and Patricia Elder
Mr. and Mrs. Michael J. Elliott
Mr. Howard R. Emden
Mr. and Mrs. Don A. Evans
Christine Ewing and Grace Schoenlank
Mrs. Gwen Feick
Mr. and Mrs. James Ferando
Ms. Beverly Fletcher
Robert and Anita Flori Charitable Fund
Dr. Michael R. Foley and Dr. Lisa Dado
Tom Freeland, CRNA
Mr. Michael J. Frick and Ms. Patty
Swanson
Samuel and Darlene Friedman
Ms. Janice Ganann
Ms. Kristine R. R. Garrett
Dr. and Mrs. Edwin G. Goldstein
Ms. Susan Gordon
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Gould
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 39

enefactors
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel R. Govinsky
Ms. Bonnie Grant
Dr. and Mrs. Imad and Mary Haddad
Mr. Chad Hatfield
Dr. John A. Hensing and Mrs. Suzanne Coyne
Anne Hermida, M.D.
Ms. Robin Hollis
Mr. and Mrs. Ed Holmberg
Steven and Natalie Hood
Danny and Camille Horn
Mrs. Jamison Howdon
Ms. Debra Huguez
Ms. Jamie (Anne) James
Mr. Michael L. Johnston
Young W. Kahn, M.D.
Mrs. Anna Lou Kelso
Ms. Jennifer Keppler
Dr. and Mrs. Jon A. King
Ms. Julie Klein-Roerig
Mr. Thomas Koelbl
Ms. Amber Kovacs
Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Kraemer
Ms. Andrea J. Kramer
Michael and Deb Krmpotic
Galemarie Kuchtyak
Alan and Becky Kuhn
Ms. Stephanie Laugen
Dr. Conrad and Mrs. Stefani Lawrence
Mr. Anh-Viet Le
Mr. and Mrs. Leon Lemelson
Mr. and Mrs. Anthony Leszczynski
Cathy and Herman Lewkowitz
Ms. Lori J. Linder
David and Pat Upah
Terrence J. Loftus, M.D.
Ms. Juanita Lombardi
Ms. Patricia Lundgren
‘‘
When we were young and just starting
out, our children had medical needs that would
have been a financial burden for us. Anonymous
donors stepped in and made it possible to get
the treatment we needed. Now we are financially
secure and able to repay the generosity shown
to us years ago.
”
Anonymous
Mr. and Mrs. David S. Mabey
Mr. Donald Maloney
Mr. Terry Mann
Ms. Dianne R. Marples
Mr. and Mrs. Mark H. McCormack
Mr. Richard Miller
Ms. Sheila J. Moroney
Ms. Bernadette Murray
Richard and Pamela Nenaber
Mr. and Mrs. James L. Nesbitt
Mr. and Mrs. John Nesbitt
Mr. John D. Neuner
Mr. and Mrs. J. Newbold
Dr. and Mrs. Donald K. Nicolson
Dr. Sarvesh K. Nigam
Ms. Ellen C. O'Connor
Mr. and Mrs. Riyad Z. Ousta
Mr. and Mrs. Samuel A. Patterson
Ms. Joanne Pelowski
Ms. Kari Lynn Perkes
Ms. Judith Perkins
Mr. John Placko
Mr. and Mrs. Brent L. Priday
Mr. Ed Anderson and Ms. Elaine
E. Ralls
Ms. Cheryl Ralls
Ms. Ellen Reddin
Mr. and Mrs. Scott Rhodes
Roger and Hazel Richards
Ms. Kristen Richards
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Rizley
40 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

enefactors
Banner
Benefactors
Spotlight
Jeff and Krista Stone
Lifetime Benefactors
$250,000 TO CARDON CHILDREN’S
MEDICAL CENTER
“The purpose of Cardon Children’s Medical
Center is consistent with our focus on
supporting children’s nonprofit charities,
both through our personal choice as well
as through our employee-run charity,
Summit Builder’s Charities. Banner has
been an aggressive, driving force in
improving the quality of health care in the
Phoenix area, and we are proud to be
involved with such a progressive
organization that positively impacts the
lives of so many people.”
Ms. Laura B. Robertson
Ms. Karen Rolph
Todd and Karen Santoni
Mr. John R. Sares
Ms. Kathleen J. Schultz
Mr. A.R. Schwertner
Ms. Joan H. Shanahan
Ms. Julie Sherman
Mr. Lee Shipman
Mr. John M. Silverberg
Ms. Connie Simon
Ms. Linda Skoff
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey C. Slocum
Mr. and Mrs. Michael Fortuna
Dr. Marshall L. Smith
Mr. and Mrs. Robert R. Smith
Ms. Laura Snow
Mr. Frank H. Snyder
Dr. and Mrs. Larry Spratling
Dr. and Mrs. Mark Starling
Robert and Christine Steigerwald
John and Kathy Strasser
Mr. John W. Strauser
Dr. and Mrs. David R. Streitwieser
Mr. Philip D. Suddarth
Mr. James Sullivan
Ms. Mei Sun
Tate-Moss Family
Rick and Deb Telles
Mr. David Tiemeyer
Ms. Catherine Townsend
Dr. and Mrs. Lester Tukan
Mr. Allyn D. Tuschen
Mr. Richard E. Ullrich
Kent and Ethel Utter
Ms. Desiree E. van Egmond
Ms. Judy Van Norman
Mr. David W. Vaughn
Ms. Cheryl Vickers Wicks
Ms. Lorene Vickery
Mr. Larry E. Volkmar
George and Lisa Vyles
Dr. Glenn and Mrs. Barbara
Waterkotte
Mr. and Mrs. Dan F. Weinman
Mr. and Mrs. Todd S. Werner
Ms. Judith K. White
Ms. Cynthia Wickstrom
Mr. Thomas C. Williams
Mrs. Dortha N. Wills
Ms. Martha Winkler
Mr. Gregory Wojtal
Ms. Kelly Yeats
Ms. Gail Zerbe
John and Pam Zidich
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 41

enefactors
Lifetime
Banner Benefactors
Anonymous
Mr. Lloyd Banning
Nadine and Eddie Basha
Blake's Miracle Foundation
Dr. and Mrs. Warren Becker
Mrs. Olga R. Bender
Mr. and Mrs. Blair D. Benjamin
Mr. and Mrs. Andrew J. Berchtold
Heidi and Jeffrey Berkley
Mr. and Mrs. Merle D. Bird
Mr. and Mrs. Donald A. Bliss
Mr. and Ms. David Bradford
Mr. and Mrs. Howard H. Briggs
Mr. and Mrs. Stacy J. Brimhall
Mr. and Mrs. Stephen M. Brophy
Laverne Beall Burhans
Mr. and Mrs. Wilford A. Cardon
Mr. and Mrs. Wil R. Cardon
Mr. and Mrs. Richard R. Cardon
Mr. and Mrs. Patrick R. Cardon
Mr. Philip R. Cardon
Mr. and Mrs. Craig D. Carson
Dr. and Mrs. Harry J. Cavanagh, Jr.
Mrs. Geri G. Cavanagh
Mr. and Mrs. J. Baxter Chapman
Dr. and Mrs. Martin S. Chattman
Mr. and Mrs. Dick I. Chung
Mrs. Marcy S. Clark
Mr. Donald E. Cline
Mr. and Mrs. John F. Cota
Mr. and Mrs. Tony Coury, Jr.
Dr. and Mrs. Ronald J. Creasman
Mr. and Mrs. James C. Crews
Ms. Virginia Dayton
Mrs. Barbara W. Dean
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Delgado
Mrs. Florence Dellage
Ms. Carol A. Den Herder
‘‘
In watching both my wife and friends
struggle with Alzheimer’s disease, I felt
I could help make a difference by supporting
Banner Alzheimer’s Institute.
”
Robert Flori – Annual Benefactor
Mr. and Mrs. Verde V. Dickey
Dr. and Mrs. David Dudgeon
John and Anne Duffy
Mr. and Mrs. Paul F. Eckstein
Ms. Patricia Engels and Mr. Richard
Medland
Anita and Ross Farnsworth
Mr. and Mrs. Richard L. Federico
Peter S. Fine and Rebecca Ailes-Fine
The Fitzgerald Family
Mrs. Mary Friga
Ms. M. Rudelle Goodwin
Mr. and Mrs. John W. Graham
Dr. and Mrs. Robert E. Graves
Mr. and Mrs. Daniel D. Green
Dr. Oliver and Sharon Harper
Ms. Carole Harrison
Dr. Joni J. Hegel
The Suzanne & Steven Hilton Family
Tony and Eleanor Jannetti
Dr. and Mrs. John M. Johnson
Mr. and Mrs. Philip O. Johnson
Mrs. Betty J. Kansky
Mrs. Melvina C. Killion
Ms. Denise L. Kohlstedt
John and Kim Kressaty
Dr. and Mrs. Barry A. Kriegsfeld
The Estate of Ted D. Laughlin, MD
Dr. and Mrs. Alan I. Leibowitz
Matt Leinart Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Delbert R. Lewis
42 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

enefactors
Banner
Benefactors
Spotlight
‘‘
We believe in what Banner is doing
for the community. We supported the
concept of an East Valley children’s
hospital and have been thrilled to be
part of such an important addition
in our community.
”
Michael and Cheryl Pollack – Lifetime Benefactors
Lee Shipman
Annual Benefactor
$10,000 GIFT TO BANNER HOSPICE
“The staff was so nice and did everything
possible to make my wife, Frances,
comfortable [when she stayed at Banner
Baywood]. I appreciated everything they
did for us. They treated her so well that
when she ended up needing more help, I
looked to Banner Hospice. You couldn’t
pick a better group to be associated with
than Banner Hospice. I really appreciated
their care. Hospice still contacts me every
so often to make sure I’m OK. It’s been
months since I lost my wife. I know I can
call Elizabeth and leave her a message
and she’ll call me back. Anyone who
has an opportunity to use Banner services
should do so. They’re here to help.”
Tom and Jan Lewis
Mrs. Ann Magro
Mr. and Mrs. Rex G. Maughan
Mr. and Mrs. Andy McCain
The Hon. and Mrs. John McCain
Mr. and Mrs. Ronald H. McGee
Norma E. Mercer
Lisa and Alfredo Molina
McKenzie Monks Foundation
Mrs. Ruth Nesbitt
The Nomis Foundation
Mr. and Mrs. Ted Northrop, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. William H. O'Brien
Mr. and Mrs. Carl B. Owens
Dr. and Mrs. Ed F. Oxford
Michael A. Pachtman, M.D.
Ms. Millie Page
Mr. Stephen D. Paine
Carol Peterson
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Noone
The Pearce Family Trust
Mr. and Mrs. William Peltier
Mr. and Mrs. John W. Perkinson
Mr. and Mrs. Michael A. Pollack
Wallace A. Reed, M.D.
Mr. and Mrs. Thomas P. Rezler
Mr. and Mrs. Wilburn C. Roberts
Dr. and Mrs. Louis A. Rosati
Ms. Sarene H. Ross
Dr. Norm and Pam Saba
Mrs. Saranjit K. Saini
Dr. and Mrs. Clarence Sarkodee-Adoo
Dr. and Mrs. Donald F. Schaller
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth W. Sheely
The Linda and Martin Shultz Family
Foundation
Stuart R. and Nancy J. Smith
Mrs. Louise Solheim
Paul and Susan Stander
Mr. and Mrs. Jerre Stead
Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey C. Stone
Mr. James Stuart, Jr.
Mrs. Joyce J. Taber
Dr. Pierre Tariot and Ms. Laura
J. Jakimovich
Dr. and Mrs. Thomas J. Taylor
Mr. and Mrs. John W. Thatcher
Mr. Jeremiah Thorne
Ms. F. Bernedene Toms
Mr. and Mrs. Ryan M. Turley
Mr. and Mrs. Kenneth J. Van Winkle
Mr. and Mrs. Richard C. Walpole
Mr. and Mrs. Frank H. Walsh Jr.
Carrie L. Walters, M.D.
Mr. and Mrs. Marion Weidenbener, Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Charles H. Welliver
Carol and Craig Willett
Mr. and Mrs. James F. Wirth
Mr. and Mrs. Steve Young
Mrs. Martha J. Youngker
F R I E N D S F A L L 2 0 1 0 | 43

enefactors
Partners in Wellness
Banner Health Foundation and Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation gratefully acknowledge the following new
gifts of $10,000 or more from corporations, foundations and local community groups who have invested in
our organization during the last 12 months. Their generosity is symbolic of our Partners in Wellness.
Alberta B. Farrington Foundation
Camelback Desert School
Keith D. Stoltz Foundation
Southwest Ambulance
American Fire Equipment Sales
CannonDesign
The Kemper and Ethel Marley
St. Luke's Health Initiatives
& Service Corp.
Comprehensive Risk
Foundation
State Farm Mutual Automobile
American Valet Company, Inc.
Services, LLC
Kitchell Contractors
Insurance Company
The Amyotrophic Lateral
Copper Ridge Elementary
Kiwanis Club of Friendship
Susan G. Komen for the
Sclerosis Association
School
Village
Cure - Phoenix Affiliate
Anonymous Gift
Cox Communications
Matt Leinart Foundation
Synthes U.S.A.
Arizona Medical Network, Inc.
C.R. Bard, Inc.
McCarthy Building Companies,
T.W. Lewis Foundation
The Arizona Republic
CVS Caremark Charitable Trust
Inc.
Thunderbirds Charities
Atwood Health Foundation
DPR Construction, Inc.
Mesa United Way
Valley Anesthesiology
Banner Desert & Cardon
Family Caregiver Alliance
Midwestern University
Foundation
Children’s Medical Center
Fennemore Craig
Neonatology Associates, Ltd.
Valley of the Sun United Way
Volunteers
First Things First
The Nomis Foundation
The Virginia G. Piper Charitable
BHHS Legacy Foundation
Garrison Family Trust
Our 365 - Share More
Trust
The Board of Visitors
Gila River Indian Community
Pearce Family Foundation
Wachovia Wells Fargo
The Branden Lombardi
The Governors
PMT Ambulance
Foundation
Foundation
John & Sophie Ottens
Salt River Project
Willard E. Smucker Foundation
Foundation
Banner Health Foundation Staff
Andy Kramer, President/CEO • Brent Anderson
Christy Atler • Kristine Burnett • Kim Carkhuff • Pat Elder • Gina Gral
Natalie Hood • Camille Horn • Stefani Lawrence • Terri MacKay • Cindy Mero • Hazel Richards
Andrea Rietz • Jennifer Robertson • Karen Santoni • Dana Schiemann
Kelly Smith • Sue Williams
Friends Publication Staff
Kristine Burnett, Editor • Kim Carkhuff, Contributing Writer • Terri MacKay, Contributing Writer
Design and Production: Linda Haskell, Lithotech, Inc.
Photography provided in part by: Ben Arnold Photography • Ryan Guzzetta, Axium Photography
Ken Howie Photography • Paulson Photo/Graphic
Friends is a publication of Banner Health Foundation. Find us online at www.BannerHealth.org/BannerFoundation
Send comments, additional copy requests or address changes to: P.O. Box 1897, Phoenix, AZ 85001.
44 | B A N N E R H E A L T H . O R G

PHOTOGRAPH BY: PAULSON PHOTO/GRAPHIC
Banner Health Foundation
2010 Board of Directors
BOARD CHAIR
Ken Van Winkle
NOMINATING CHAIR
Richard W. Campbell
VICE CHAIRS
John Graham
Laura Palmer Noone
John Zidich
OFFICERS
Andy Kramer
PRESIDENT & CEO
Jeffrey C. Stone
SECRETARY/TREASURER
DIRECTORS
David C. Berry
Chip Carmer
Harry J. Cavanagh, Jr., MD
R. Craig Coppola
Doug Ducey
Sharon Harper
Anthony J. Jannetti
Alfredo J. Molina
Ted Northrop, Jr.
J. Stephen Rizley
Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation
2010 Board of Directors
BOARD CHAIR
Jerre Stead
VICE CHAIR
Pat Engels
DIRECTORS
Heidi Berkley
Jeffrey Berkley
Peggy Federico
Rick Federico
Steven Hilton
Suzanne Hilton
Neal Kurn
Julie Lavidge
Bob Roth
HONORARY BOARD
MEMBERS
Don Bliss
Richard Mallery
Retired Justice Sandra
Day O’Connor
Wallace A. Reed, MD
OFFICER
Andy Kramer
PRESIDENT & CEO
Banner Health Foundation Board Member Chip Carmer
and his wife, Jennifer, danced the night away at the 2009
Candlelight Capers Ball, the signature fundraising event
benefiting Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center. Proceeds
supported the Laura Dreier Breast Center at Banner Good
Samaritan to enhance and improve the early detection,
diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer.

P.O. Box 1897
Phoenix, AZ 85001-9940
Change Service Requested
Banner Health Foundation
Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation
Non-Profit
Organization
U.S. Postage
PAID
Phoenix, Arizona
Permit No. 1596
Calendar of Upcoming Events
Banner Thunderbird Golf Classic
Raven Golf Club at Verrado
Benefiting: Pediatric programs at Banner
Thunderbird & Banner Estrella Medical Centers
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Stars of the Season
W Scottsdale
Benefiting: The Integrative Pain Management
Program at Cardon Children’s Medical Center
Friday, December 3, 2010
Candlelight Capers Ball
Arizona Biltmore Resort & Spa
Benefiting: The Heart Failure Program at
Banner Good Samaritan Medical Center
Saturday, December 11, 2010
For more information, to purchase tickets or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities,
please call (602) 747-4608 or e-mail natalie.hood@bannerhealth.com