The Impact of Philanthropy

Gastroenterology

At MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, we’re proud to provide some of the most advanced gastroenterology (GI) care in the nation. Thanks to a transformational gift, we’re embarking on an exciting new chapter—renovating and reimagining our GI space to enhance the patient experience, upgrade cutting-edge technology, fuel innovative research, and train the next generation of leading gastroenterologists. This investment will not only improve outcomes—it will help shape the future of GI care for years to come.

Heart and Vascular

MedStar Heart & Vascular Institute at MedStar Washington Hospital Center is nationally recognized for excellence in heart care—and with your support, we’re shaping the future of cardiovascular medicine. When Jerry Tippett received lifesaving treatment here, it gave his family three more cherished years with him and inspired groundbreaking research into inherited heart conditions that continues today.

Philanthropy is also fueling the next generation of care through the J.D. Murphy Jr. Cardio-Oncology Fellowship, one of only 10 programs in the U.S. training specialists at the intersection of cancer and heart care.

"This fellowship keeps your finger on the pulse of new evidence and data across the field," says Dr. Tanesh Ayyalu, current fellow. "Between the research, mentorship, and clinical experience, it’s been truly transformative."

Neurology

When it comes to neurology care, every second counts. Our stroke team performs lifesaving thrombectomies (clot removal to restore blood flow) 85% faster than the national average, and donor support is helping us go even further. Philanthropy is fueling innovation across our system by advancing research, recruiting national clinical leaders, and expanding access to expert care for conditions like brain tumors, movement disorders, and dementia.

After a frightening episode of transient global amnesia, Kathryn Lindquist found compassion and healing at MedStar Health. Her gratitude inspired a powerful gift to strengthen neurology services and launch the Clinical Research Scholar Track, training the next generation of neurological experts.

"I want to make sure that all MedStar Health’s communities can receive the treatment they need," Kathryn shares. 

Orthopedics

A transformational gift from a grateful patient is reshaping the future of orthopaedic care at MedStar Georgetown. This remarkable act of generosity is making possible the creation of the first centralized, state-of-the-art space for orthopaedic and spine care—a welcoming, patient-centered environment that combines exam rooms, procedure suites, imaging, and clinical expertise in one location. 

Designed for comfort, privacy, and ease of access, the MedStar Orthopaedic Institute will serve as both a sanctuary for healing and a hub for clinical innovation. Donor support is not only elevating the care experience for patients and families but also empowering medical teams to collaborate more effectively and continue advancing care.

Thanks to the power of philanthropy, the Musculoskeletal Research and Innovation Center at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital has become a beacon of progress and possibility in patient care. Funded by donor support, this visionary space—including the newly opened Innovation in Motion Lab (iMoLab)—is transforming the future of mobility. From advanced gait analysis to the development of next-generation training tools, this state-of-the-art 2,700-square-foot lab equips researchers to pioneer solutions that will change lives for individuals living with musculoskeletal conditions. This is where generosity meets innovation—and healing takes its next step forward. 

Transplant 

MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute is one of the nation’s most comprehensive transplant centers—offering all four abdominal organ transplants: liver, kidney, pancreas, and small bowel. With your support, we’re transforming transplant care through cutting-edge research, expanded access, and compassionate services like nurse navigation. 

After being told he’d have to wait six months for an evaluation elsewhere, John Capece turned to MedStar Health—and received a kidney just a year later. “It was lifesaving,” he says. “I’m so grateful, and I want others to have the same chance.” Read John’s full story here. 

Education

The Academy at MedStar Health helps associates pursue new career paths—without sacrificing their income. Team members can gain new skills and education while continuing to earn their full-time salaries, creating life-changing opportunities and addressing critical staffing needs across healthcare. Over the past year, 50 associates have proudly graduated from the Academy, now prepared to take the next step in their careers. Additional cohorts are ongoing thanks to donor support.

“Being accepted into the Surgical Technician Apprentice program was a dream come true,” says Leticia A., a 2024 graduate. “As a proud Latina and former coat check employee, this opportunity transformed my confidence and inspired my family. I’m building a brighter future for myself and my children.”

The Ravens and the Stephen & Renee Bisciotti Foundation have made a transformational grant to MedStar Health to support nursing recruitment and retention in Baltimore. This philanthropic investment strengthens the local healthcare workforce by empowering nurses, enhancing career development, and ensuring high-quality care for the community.

Community

Thanks to the generosity of donors and grant support, we expanded the FoodRx program to all four Baltimore MedStar Health hospitals. Anchored at MedStar Union Memorial Hospital in partnership with The Franciscan Center, FoodRx supports adults with diabetes and food insecurity through medically tailored meals, education, culinary classes, and fresh produce. The program has served thousands of meals, supported over 275 patients, reduced A1C levels by 90%, decreased hospital visits by 20%, and narrowed the diabetes outcome gap between White and Black patients.

MedStar St. Mary Hospital has actively fostered trust with the local Amish community through consistent outreach, respectful dialogue, and collaboration that honors their unique values and healthcare needs. These efforts have cultivated strong relationships and sustained engagement—leading to generous philanthropic support and initiatives like a routine mobile health unit visit that expands access to care for this community.

Philanthropy is the driving force behind the Adaptive Sports Program at MedStar National Rehabilitation Hospital—a life-changing initiative that empowers patients with disabilities to regain strength, confidence, and connection. Through donor support, more than 2,500 athletes have participated in free recreational and competitive sports, finding healing and purpose on and off the field. From wheelchair basketball to adaptive cycling, these inclusive programs offer specialized training, travel support, and community events that uplift individuals and promote resilience throughout their rehabilitation journey.

Thanks to donor support, our Safe Babies Safe Moms initiative has helped more than 42,700 patients—and we continue to expand its reach. Philanthropy fuels impactful programs across our system, such as the Community Baby Shower at MedStar Southern Maryland Hospital, which connects families with essential items and local resources, and Dr. Chuka Jenkins’ baby take-home kits at MedStar Harbor Hospital, supporting mothers facing substance use disorder. These efforts underscore our deep commitment to maternal and infant health—ensuring families feel heard, supported, and empowered as they become parents.

“Thank you for giving me the push I needed to keep fighting. I had a feeling something was wrong, but I just couldn’t get them to listen to me. You made them listen to me and fix this.” - Former Safe Babies Safe Moms patient