Patient Takes Philanthropy One Step Further
Sunday, June 01, 2003
Former proton patient Chuck Kubicki and his wife, Mary, didn’t stop with a generous contribution for research. They also challenged others to follow in their footsteps.
Last year, former proton patients established the James M. Slater Endowed Chair for Proton Therapy Research at Loma Linda University Medical Center, as a way to acknowledge the life-saving treatment they received.
In October, 2002, the Kubickis gave $50,000 to the fund. They also pledged to give another $50,000 if other former proton patients joined them in supporting the fund with an equal amount.
According to David Colwell, CFRE, director of development at Loma Linda University Medical Center, former patients quickly responded to the Kubickis’ challenge with more than $50,000 in gifts.
"Mr. and Mrs. Kubicki are responsible for $150,000 in contributions to the Slater Chair," Mr. Colwell says. "And that’s in less than three months. We are grateful for their initiative and partnership."
In the spirit of giving, the Kubickis have gone even further. To ensure that current proton patients have easier access to exercise equipment at Drayson Center, Loma Linda’s recreational facility, they donated an additional $10,200 to purchase two Technogym treadmills. Proton patients can reserve these in advance. "We are pleased to be the beneficiary of the Kubickis’ continued generosity," says Donald Sease, director of Drayson Center.
James M. Slater, MD, FACR, is founding director and the driving force behind Loma Linda University’s Proton Treatment Center. The endowed chair is a tribute to his visionary leadership, commitment to excellence, and scientific contributions to initiate and continue to broaden the scope of clinical applications for proton radiation treatment.
If you are interested in contributing to the James M. Slater Endowed Chair for Proton Therapy Research or learning about various ways to make a gift, please contact David Colwell by writing to him at: Loma Linda University Medical Center Office of Advancement, P.O. Box 2000 A607, Loma Linda, California, 92354; by calling (909) 558-4778; or by e-mailing dcolwell@ahs.llumc.edu.
