Guest Commentary: Supporting the gift that keeps on giving: Health
For more than 108 years, Lee Health has been a trusted partner in Southwest Florida’s health care journey. It has served every generation, from babies in the NICU to grandparents undergoing heart surgery, guiding patients from diagnosis through recovery with compassion and expertise.
Recognizing the growing needs of the community, Lee Health established a foundation 30 years ago to foster innovation and growth. Over the years, the foundation has raised more than $300 million, enabling the creation of state-of-the-art facilities and advancements. Its impact can be seen in initiatives like the Lee Health Cancer Institute, Golisano Children’s Hospital, technological advancements such as the Da Vinci surgical robots, and investments in staff education and training.
On Nov. 1, Lee Health transitioned from a governmental nonprofit to a community-focused nonprofit. This change ensures that Lee Health remains committed to reinvesting all gains into patient care, and also underscores the importance of philanthropy. Unlike most safety-net systems, Lee Health does not receive direct tax support, meaning contributions from donors are crucial to expanding services and improving access to care.
This shift is paving the way for future growth. Planned projects include a pediatric surgery center and innovative musculoskeletal services at the new Lee Health Fort Myers hospital, set to open by December 2027. This storm-hardened, technologically advanced facility will meet the region’s growing population’s needs, ensuring high-quality care remains accessible close to home.
These transformative efforts are fueled by the generosity of donors who share a vision of healthier communities. Philanthropy has enabled extraordinary achievements, including:
Tom Golisano, who recently gifted $10 million for Golisano Children’s Hospital expansion, on top of $20 million in 2013 for initial construction.
Communities, like Sanibel and Captiva residents, who created SanCap Cares, raising more than $18 million since 2000. Bonita Bay residents have contributed over $1.5 million in three years for expanded cancer care.
Foundations, including the Richard M. Schulze Family Foundation, which has donated more than $4.2 million for cancer care expansion, and the Shipley Foundation, which has contributed over $3 million for cardiothoracic surgery innovation.
Southwest Florida Children’s Charities, providing over $23 million for Golisano Children’s Hospital and Lee Health since 2008 through the Wine & Food Festival.
Area businesses and partners, including the Boston Red Sox and the Minnesota Twins, contributing almost $20 million over 30 years.
Lee Health employees, who raise hundreds of thousands annually to enhance patient care and job skills through training programs, as well as the programs that they work in and feel personally passionate about.
Equally inspiring are contributions from individuals, including the late Logan Stryker, a young oncology patient who fundraised for a slushy machine to comfort children, and Summer Kates, who survived being hit by a car in 2015 and established a nonprofit supporting Golisano’s Child Life program. These stories show how even small gestures leave a lasting impact.
The importance of philanthropy is clear through the lives transformed by community support:
Jesus Abarca Jr., diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer at 33, found hope through treatment at Lee Health Cancer Institute, the region’s only accredited cancer center.
Carol Holloway, a Stage 3 breast cancer patient, protected her heart health during treatment thanks to collaboration between her oncologist and a cardio-oncologist at the Lee Health Heart Institute.
Jasper Yates, a teen diagnosed with a rare swallowing disorder, had his quality of life restored through robotic, minimally invasive surgery.
Each of these patients reflects the profound impact of philanthropy on great medical care. Contributions ensure Southwest Florida residents access exceptional care from world-class specialists, supported by cutting-edge technology and informed by the latest medical advancements.
As Southwest Florida’s population grows, so does the demand for advanced health care services. Philanthropy will fuel Lee Health’s mission, enabling it to meet tomorrow’s challenges while delivering compassionate care today. Every gift to Lee Health Foundation, large or small, represents more than financial support-it is a commitment to the well-being of neighbors, families, and friends.
Through donors’ generosity, Lee Health is building a brighter future. Every dollar given is a gift of health, a promise of hope, and a testament to community power. Together, we can ensure exceptional care is always within reach for those who call Southwest Florida home.
Chris Simoneau is chief development, marketing and communications officer for Lee Health Foundation. For information on how to support health care for all in Southwest Florida, visit LeeHealth Foundation.org/gift-of-health.