Newsroom
There are many exciting and inspiring things happening at Providence Mission Hospital Foundation. We’re glad to share them with you.
Stories

A Second Chance at Life
Larry Watkins lives in a constant state of deep gratitude for his life and for the lifesaving care he received at Providence Mission Hospital.

Investing in Innovation
Thanks to our community’s unwavering support, Providence Mission Hospital’s Heart and Vascular Institute is at the forefront of exceptional care.

Healing Innovations
With your support, we can continue to provide lifesaving cardiac care for our south Orange County loved ones and neighbors.

Breakthrough Philanthropy
Because of generous donor support of the cardiac catheterization lab, this was the third time this innovative transhepatic WATCHMAN FLX approach was ever performed in the world.

Meet Our New Chief Philanthropy Officer
Providence Mission Hospital Foundation announces the appointment of Nicole Balsamo as chief philanthropy officer beginning in January 2023.

A Community United
Providence Mission Hospital lost one of its beloved emergency medicine physicians, Dr. Michael Mammone, who dedicated 12 years of compassionate service.

Tee Up Against Cancer
The 2023 Audi Mission Viejo | Volvo Mission Viejo | Polestar South Coast Golf Classic brought 250 golfers to the scenic Pelican Hill Golf Club on Wednesday, June 14.

Holiday Gala 2023 | Save the Date
Providence Mission Hospital Foundation’s annual Holiday Gala will return on Saturday, December 2 at the Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach Resort.

Center of Excellence for Robotic Surgery
Congratulations to Providence Mission Hospital on receiving accreditation as a Center of Excellence for Robotic Surgery.

Fulfilling the American Dream
When Gloria Luna immigrated from Peru, she came with an indomitable spirit to pursue her dreams and her passion for helping others

Love, Laughter & Family
Mary Lee and Robert “Bob” Hill share a silly sense of humor, a Russian Blue cat named Boris and a passion for giving back.

The Impact of Valiant Women
Since its formation in 1994, Valiant Women have focused on advancing women’s health and nursing at Providence Mission Hospital.

Supporting Advanced Care
After Robert received outstanding care, Carole felt inspired to honor his memory by making a gift that funded advanced robotic technology.

Tribute to Jim Frey
With much gratitude we honor Jim Frey, executive director of estate and planned giving, upon his retirement at the end of this year.

James Bredenkamp, M.D. named Executive Medical Director of Leonard Cancer Institute
Congratulations to Foundation Board Member James Bredenkamp, M.D. who was named executive medical director of the Leonard Cancer Institute.

Gold Medal Team
Adrienne never expected to end up in the emergency room, especially after her husband’s life-saving operation just months before.

Auxiliary Supports Women & Infants Institute
Providence Mission Hospital Auxiliary’s generous donation of over $120,000 purchased 34 newborn bassinets for our Women & Infants Institute.

A Generous Prognosis
Nineteen physicians took care beyond the bedside by becoming donors in support of the emergency department expansion.

Physician Champion Award Dinner 2022
Twenty-one clinicians across Providence Southern California were recognized at the inaugural Physician Champion Award Dinner.

Meet Rudy Marquez, M.D.
The Foundation is proud to recognize Dr. Marquez for his valued partnership and leadership in support of advancing patient care.

Meet James Bredenkamp, M.D.
The Foundation is proud to recognize Dr. Goldberg for his valued partnership and leadership in support of advancing patient care.

Meet Robert Goldberg, M.D.
The Foundation is proud to recognize Dr. Goldberg for his valued partnership and leadership in support of advancing patient care.

For the Love of Janie
Married for 53 years to her high school sweetheart, Janie was retired from her fulfilling career as a high school English teacher.

Passion Project
Cathy and Richard Hubbell have expressed their gratitude for Providence Mission Hospital through their enthusiastic support in many ways.

A Historic Night to Remember
This year’s highly anticipated Golden Anniversary Gala presented by Rancho Mission Viejo celebrated a significant milestone.

Our Deepest Gratitude
We mourn the passing of longtime donor Carla Liggett who left a legacy of generosity that will impact future generations.

Tender Hearts
Providence Mission Hospital is known for caring for the whole family, not just the patient. Jarrod Daniel knows that after a frightening heart episode.

Passing of Sister Martha Ann Fitzpatrick
On October 18, 2021, Sister Martha Ann Fitzpatrick passed away in peace and we share this tremendous loss together.

A Fully Integrated Model of Care
The Digestive Health Institute will provide tailored treatment plans for patients suffering from digestive health issues.

Cultivating Compassion
Donna and Kurt have honored their family’s legacy with a recent gift to Providence Mission Hospital’s Digestive Health Institute in honor of their children.

Mission Accomplished
Providence Mission Hospital Foundation has achieved its $35 million launch goal for the Judi and Bill Leonard Institute for Cancer Prevention, Treatment and Wellness.

Sharing the Gift of a Mother’s Love
Joanna Johnson, a longtime Mission Viejo real estate broker, knows firsthand the lifesaving difference that Providence Mission Hospital makes in our community because our doctors saved her mother’s life.

Meet Mark T. Hebner
Foundation board member Mark Hebner knows firsthand the critical role Providence Mission Hospital plays in our community.

Golden Anniversary Gala Celebration
Our traditional Holiday Gala will take place in spring 2022 as we celebrate a significant milestone for Providence Mission Hospital: 50 years of sacred moments.

Meet Dr. Peter Czuleger
Dr. Cuzleger has earned the reputation as a committed physician whose empathy and compassion build strong personal connections with patients.

Celebrating 50 Years of Sacred Moments
Providence Mission Hospital’s campus may have grown and changed over the years, but our commitment to our community remains steadfast.

Affirming the Dignity of Life
Providence Mission Hospital’s new Walter A. Craig Center for Palliative Care supports those living with serious or life-limiting illnesses.

Physician Spotlight | Robert Goldberg, MD
For Robert Goldberg, MD, pulmonary and critical care specialist, Providence Mission Hospital feels like family.

Donor Spotlight | Alexa & Brandon Biegenzahn
The Biegenzahns decided to become Philanthropist Circle donors out of a desire to give back to the community that has given them so much.

Inspiring Others with a Life Well Lived
Giving back is a wonderful way to express gratitude for life’s blessings, and Susie and Rich Gordinier have many reasons to be thankful.

Providence Unified
In February 2021, Providence Mission Hospital began to transition signage on their campuses to a new brand. A unified brand will make it easier for our community to recognize which ministries and partners are part of our comprehensive network of care.

Donor Spotlight | Steve Nordeck
Steve Nordeck was a longtime resident and business owner who loved the San Juan Capistrano community. Always philanthropically minded, Steve was a grateful patient who, upon his passing from cancer, provided a generous bequest that will be used to support the Judi and Bill Leonard Institute for Cancer Prevention, Treatment and Wellness at Providence Mission Hospital.

Bob and Penny Young Give Back in Multiple Ways
Bob and Penny Young have both experienced outstanding patient care at Providence Mission Hospital several times. Since then, the couple has chosen to support Providence Mission Hospital in a variety of ways.

Camino Health Center Transition
Providence Mission Hospital Foundation supports and applauds this major step forward in Camino’s growth and development, which we believe will serve Camino and our south Orange County community well.

A Century of Commitment
Few individuals reach 100 years of age. Fewer still are those who get there with an indomitable zest for life, untiring determination and a profound spirit of giving
Born and raised in Boston, Massachusetts, Henry Wolfe attended Boston Latin School (the oldest public school in America) and received a bachelor of science degree in psychology from the University of Massachusetts. From there, he attended Boston University for his medical degree.

“Just Happy to Have Helped”
For some people, humility doesn’t require effort; it’s simply a way of life. Neil and Barbara Phillips are those kinds of people.
Neil grew up in the town of Pleasant Hill outside of San Francisco. Hired straight out of college into the fledgling industry of cable television, Neil was transferred to Southern California, where he met his wife, Barbara.

Leonard Cancer Institute: Embracing the Future and Celebrating a Successful Year
“Looking back, our first year has been amazing,” says Terry Wooten, executive director of operations at Mission Hospital.
The Judi and Bill Leonard Institute for Cancer Prevention, Treatment and Wellness opened in November 2019. With its four-story, state-of-theart facility and personalized, molecular-based medicine, the Leonard Cancer Institute provides patients in our community with specialized cancer care — ensuring that residents of South Orange County have access to the most advanced oncology treatments available.

A Labor of Love
Katie Rommelfanger knew that she wanted to be a nurse at Mission Hospital from a remarkably young age and jumped at the chance to shadow a Mission nurse when she was just 15 years old. She eventually obtained her bachelor’s degree in nursing from University of Texas at Arlington.

MRI at Laguna Beach
In 2016, Mission Hospital embarked on a vital fundraising initiative to expand the Emergency Departments at both locations: Laguna Beach and Mission Viejo. By 2019, the five-phase expansion and restoration of the Sue and Bill Gross Emergency Department at Mission Hospital Laguna Beach was completed.

Bridging generations
For the Billingsleys, starting out at Mission Hospital has become something of a family tradition. And today, moms like Kelsey have even more options than ever.

A second chance for one of our bravest
This Orange County firefighter ruptured a disc in his spine while on the job, setting in motion a cycle of failed procedures and opioid abuse. That’s when he discovered Providence Mission Hospital Orthopedic Institute and an innovative neurotransmitter treatment.

World-class Cancer Care In Action
Brendan McBrien, middle school music teacher, former jaw cancer patient
Every day, 4,500 lives are forever changed by the words, “You have cancer.” Despite the medical advances in cancer treatment, this is still an alarming diagnosis. That’s why Mission Hospital is revolutionizing cancer care to fight for you and those you love, just as we did for Brendan.

Bringing world-class cancer care to the citizens of south Orange County
The Mission Hospital family celebrated an exciting day in November 2019, with the dedication of the Judi and Bill Leonard Institute for Cancer Prevention, Treatment and Wellness.

The gift that gives back
Fifteen years ago, Jean Glenn received a letter from Mission Hospital Foundation explaining the benefits of a charitable gift annuity. Well versed in financial matters and a dedicated hospital auxiliary member, Jean carefully reviewed the salient facts.

Corporate spotlight: Alliant gives back
Last year, Alliant Insurance Services set out to expand its involvement in the community. Mission Hospital was chosen as the recipient of Alliant’s efforts, with the company making a generous $75,000 pledge to name the Wellness Room at the newly opened Judi and Bill Leonard Cancer Institute for Prevention, Treatment and Wellness.

Standing the test of time
The lives and legacy of Ray and Betty Ann Meliza have stood the test of time. You’ll not find their names on the credits of a Hollywood movie, or on a list of “Who’s Who.” Yet, because of their uncompromising values and integrity, they have left a lasting impression.

Emergency care enhancements funded through community support
In 2016, Mission Hospital embarked on a vital fundraising initiative to expand the Emergency Departments at both locations: Laguna Beach and Mission Viejo. By 2019, the five-phase expansion and restoration of the Sue and Bill Gross Emergency Department at Mission Hospital Laguna Beach was completed.

Donors bring lifesaving care to mothers and babies
Mission Hospital’s Women and Infants Institute now houses two new pieces of advanced technology. This leading-edge equipment helps caregivers deliver care to mothers and their newborns in a timely manner, all thanks to the generosity of Duane and Kelly Roberts.

The SAVI SCOUT® comes to Mission Hospital
The SAVI SCOUT® radar localization system is designed for use by surgeons and radiologists to precisely locate and guide the removal of a tumor during a lumpectomy or surgical biopsy procedure.

Creating an empowering birth experience
Kristy and her husband, Robert, were at a school event for their daughter when she began to feel the most incredible pain, like a hammer hitting her in the head. Kristy had migraines before, but this was overwhelming.

A reason to give thanks
Tragedies often occur without warning or preparation but Mission Hospital’s Trauma Center is always ready. Just days before Thanksgiving, 24-year-old Alex was admitted to Mission Hospital. Alex had suffered a cervical spine fracture with traumatic brain injury during a waterslide accident while vacationing in Mexico with his family.

Comprehensive neurologic care for a patient in crisis
Kristy and her husband, Robert, were at a school event for their daughter when she began to feel the most incredible pain, like a hammer hitting her in the head. Kristy had migraines before, but this was overwhelming.

A connection between mind, body and soul
One minute Hari was enjoying a ride on his motorcycle in Irvine and the next he was launched into the air, when broadsided by a car. “I landed on my hands, breaking my wrist and the top of my left foot was completely ripped off,” recalls Hari. “I called my 911 and my wife, Asha.”

A letter from a grateful patient
I was in unbelievable pain and finally, I gave in and asked my sister to take me to the hospital. We passed several hospitals as we traveled from Riverside to Mission Hospital. I remembered the amazing care Mission provided when my nephew was born there many years ago, and that’s where I wanted to go.

A story of luck and hope
Even though many consider Friday the 13th to be an ill-fated day, Arlene says it was her lucky day. That’s the day they found her cancer. Arlene was diagnosed with an aggressive form of stage 4 pancreatic/liver cancer on Friday, June 13, 2014.

A change of heart
Jim Adam was raised with a love for cooking and food. This love of pizza, hot dogs and burgers was not only hereditary but an addiction. Though Jim didn’t exercise, he remarkably didn’t have high blood pressure or cholesterol.

An expression of gratitude
Sarah never saw the truck that ran the red light and crashed into her car. In fact, she has little memory of the six weeks following the accident. Her husband John remembers every moment of it, especially the phone call from Mission Hospital telling him that he needed to come to the hospital immediately.
Press

Welcome New Chief Philanthropy Officer Nicole Balsamo
Providence Mission Hospital Foundation announces the appointment of Nicole Balsamo as chief philanthropy officer.

Foundation Receives $4 Million Gift to Establish Center for Palliative Care
A family is recognizing the care their family received with a $4 million gift to establish the Walter A. Craig Center for Palliative Care.

17th THINK PINK Wall of Honor
Valiant Women will host the THINK PINK Breast Health Wall of Honor, a collection of tributes at The Shops at Mission Viejo.

Walk for the Wall
Join Valiant Women of Mission Hospital and fellow community members at the 4th Annual Walk for the Wall.

Full Psycle rides for a cause
Full Psycle at The Shops at Mission Viejo presents Ride for a Cause. Proceeds support the THINK PINK Breast Health Wall of Honor.

Physicians and nurses serve as models
Mission Hospital physicians and nurses will rock the runway, serving as models for the 25th Valiant Women Luncheon and Fashion Show.

Gala grosses nearly $3 million
Mission Hospital’s 2019 Holiday Gala, “Beyond the Limits,” was an enormous success, thanks to community members and gala chairs.
Photo Library
Publications
Videos

Gratitude Report
Videos We are impacting lives in Orange County everyday with the generous support of donors.

2023 Golf Classic
Providence Mission Hospital Foundation is grateful for Audi Mission Viejo | Volvo Mission Viejo | Polestar South Coast for their continuous support as Title Sponsors for the Annual Golf Classic.

2022 Golf Tournament
Providence Mission Hospital Foundation is grateful for Audi Mission Viejo | Volvo Mission Viejo | Polestar South Coast for their continuous support as Title Sponsors for the 2022 Annual Golf Classic.

A Hero’s Journey
An inside look at Providence Mission Hospital’s COVID-19 Interventional Intensive Care Unit

2022 SoCal Philanthropy Foundations Board Retreat
For the first time, Providence Southern California Philanthropy Foundation board leaders came together to celebrate the power of philanthropy to transform healthcare.

Bridging generations
For the Billingsleys, starting out at Mission Hospital has become something of a family tradition. And today, moms like Kelsey have even more options than ever.

A second chance for one of our bravest
This Orange County firefighter ruptured a disc in his spine while on the job, setting in motion a cycle of failed procedures and opioid abuse. That’s when he discovered Providence Mission Hospital Orthopedic Institute and an innovative neurotransmitter treatment.

World-class Cancer Care In Action
Brendan McBrien, middle school music teacher, former jaw cancer patient
Every day, 4,500 lives are forever changed by the words, “You have cancer.” Despite the medical advances in cancer treatment, this is still an alarming diagnosis. That’s why Mission Hospital is revolutionizing cancer care to fight for you and those you love, just as we did for Brendan.
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