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Banner Children's Open raises $1 million for
Child Life program
Record-breaking charity golf tournament supports the emotional well-being of Arizona's youngest patients
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Thanks to the incredible generosity of our community, the Banner Children's Open achieved a milestone we're proud to share with you—raising a record-breaking $1 million for the Child Life program at Banner Children's medical centers in Arizona.
On Friday, April 10, nearly 300 golfers gathered at Wildfire Golf Club at JW Marriott Desert Ridge for a day of golf with purpose. The sold-out tournament on two courses featured unique challenge holes, fun contests, and a spirit of camaraderie that made the day truly special. This year marked a historic first: the event was co-chaired by three women—Carrie Bailes of Buehler Engineering, Brittany Burbes of DPR Construction, and Sarah Halverson of Mortenson.
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Co-chairs: Sarah Halverson of Mortenson, Brittany Burbes of DPR Construction and Carrie Bailes of Buehler Engineering
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Proceeds will support the Child Life program, where trained experts provide age-appropriate emotional, psychological, and educational support to hospitalized children and their families. Using therapeutic play, pre-operative teaching, and coping techniques, these specialists help ease stress, fear, and anxiety during some of the most challenging moments in a child's life.
Because Child Life services are non-medical and not covered by insurance, support from donors like you makes this vital program possible.
Two inspiring young patients served as tournament Co-Ambassadors this year, sharing their stories with golfers and supporters throughout the day.
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Bert W. Martin Foundation's support advances revolutionary fetal medicine program
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The Bert W. Martin Foundation has made an extraordinary gift to Banner – University Medical Center Tucson's Fetal Care Center, continuing a meaningful partnership that has been integral to providing comprehensive, child-centered health care to families over the past three years. This latest investment will address critical infrastructure needs that currently limit the center's ability to serve families facing the most stressful situations imaginable—when they learn there is a problem with their unborn baby.
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Under the leadership of Kenneth Liechty, MD, Director of Fetal Medicine, the Fetal Care Center at Banner – University Medical Center Tucson has established itself as the Southwest's premier specialty center for serious fetal conditions. Dr. Liechty and his highly specialized, multidisciplinary team provide hope to families facing devastating diagnoses like spina bifida and twin-twin transfusion syndrome.
The center's revolutionary approach allows for interventions long before delivery, enabling babies to continue developing in utero and preventing complications that could otherwise be devastating or even fatal. In 2024, Dr. Liechty performed Arizona's first in utero spina bifida surgery on a fetus at 25 weeks gestation—a delicate repair that marked a historic milestone for the state and demonstrated the life-changing potential of fetal medicine.
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Dr. Liechty's vision has created Arizona's only comprehensive fetal care center, where families can receive an accurate diagnosis in just one day—sparing them from months of appointments and uncertainty they might face elsewhere.
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Honoring a legacy of giving: How one family keeps their father's philanthropic spirit alive
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When John E. Riedel passed away unexpectedly at age 90, he left behind more than memories—he left a mission. Just weeks before his death, John expressed his desire to leave his assets to charity, focusing on three communities close to his heart: his church, his El Dorado senior living community, and the broader Sun City, Ariz., area. Though he didn't have time to complete all the details, his children and grandchildren have turned his wishes into a lasting legacy that continues to touch lives today – and that led them to Banner Olive Branch Senior Center.
Read on to learn how the Riedel family transformed grief into generosity—and why planning your own philanthropic legacy matters more than you think.
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Upcoming Activities & Announcements
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A night to remember: Diamond Children's prom
Diamond Children's Medical Center transformed an ordinary Saturday into an unforgettable prom for teen patients unable to attend their school proms, thanks to Dunkin' Joy In Childhood Foundation . With an "Around the World" theme, the Arizona Sands Club inside the Casino del Sol Stadium featured décor, music, interactive experiences and international cuisine. Prom-goers enjoyed dancing with friends, family and care staff, plus glam sessions by Gadabout Salon Spas.
Dunkin' provided beverages, sweet treats and a special appearance by mascot Sprinkles. This event is part of a national effort bringing joy to children facing serious health challenges, offering normalcy and connection during difficult times. Thanks to Dunkin' for this incredible evening!
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National Nurses Week is May 6-12
May 6 is National Nurses Day and the start of National Nurses Week . This is a great opportunity to honor a hardworking Banner nurse who has made a difference for you or your loved ones as a Banner Health Hero.
Your special note of thanks will be shared with your honoree, along with a certificate and a lapel pin to wear proudly. Meanwhile, 100% of your tax-deductible gift will support our entire nursing workforce through educational scholarships, professional development and training, and research opportunities, elevating the care they provide to all of our patients.
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Pictured are Alison Flynn Gaffney, CEO, Banner – University Medicine Tucson and Managing Partner of Rancho Sahuarita Jeremy Sharpe, who is also a Banner Health Foundation board member.
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Community rallies for Diamond Children's at inaugural 5K run
Nearly 500 people attended the inaugural Rancho Sahuarita Lakeside Run , raising funds for our youngest patients at Diamond Children's Medical Center. Managing Partner of Rancho Sahuarita Jeremy Sharpe, who is also a Banner Health Foundation board member, brought the community together for a meaningful cause.
"Generous support from community partners helps us to invest in the equipment, research and specialty programs that keep young patients closer to home when they need us most," shared Alison Flynn Gaffney, CEO, Banner – University Medicine Tucson. "We are exceedingly grateful to the organizers, sponsors and participants in this year's Sahuarita Lakeside Run who came out to support Diamond Children's Medical Center and all of the kids in our care."
Thank you, Rancho Sahuarita and supporters, for making a difference for our youngest patients who need it most!
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Banner Health Foundation and Banner Alzheimer’s Foundation work closely with grateful patients, generous families, businesses, and community supporters to advance the nonprofit mission of Banner Health. Funds are invested locally in our hospitals and medical centers, patient care programs, family and community services, medical education, and research initiatives.
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Phoenix, AZ 85012 
