UH St. John Medical Center Chief Medical Officer Receives Funding for Western Region Can-cer Care

Vicki Hammersmith, Dr. Gil Padula, UH St. John Chief Medical Officer, Glenn Hammersmith and Matt Long, UH St. John Development Officer

Everyone knows someone that has been impacted by cancer. Today, cancer is the second leading cause of death in the United States. But despite the continued challenges that cancer brings, patients have more hope than ever thanks to advancements in the way we diagnose, treat, and prevent cancer.

Nearly 30 years ago, Jonathan Scott Dean was diagnosed with a rare type of cancer called histiocytoma. Unfortunately, he lost his battle in 1996 but his legacy will live on thanks to a recent gift to University Hospitals Seidman Cancer Center.

In December 2021, family member Vicki Hammersmith established the Jonathan Scott Dean Endowment to honor his heroic fight with this rare form of cancer. The purpose of the endowment is to promote the care, research and welfare of patients in relation to bone malignancy (with particular emphasis given to histiocytoma), radiation oncology, and community oncology. The gift totaled $300,000 with UH St. John Medical Center’s Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Gil Padula, overseeing the implementation of the funds.

“I am honored and humbled to be able to oversee the strategic investment that Vicki and her family have made to our hospital,” said Dr. Padula. “This endowment will provide incredible hope to families and further change the way we treat bone malignancy and rare cancers in the community.”

Particular to this legacy gift, the impact will be felt directly in the community, as the funds will help further elevate the ability to offer high-level cancer care directly in the community. Last year, University Hospitals opened a 35,000 square foot UH Seidman Cancer Center in Avon, the largest Seidman Cancer Center facility outside of UH Cleveland Medical Center.

“We have tremendous resources to treat patients in the communities they live and the western region is home to so much innovation and investment. The legacy of Jonathan and all who have battled cancer inspires me and all of the great physician scientists at Seidman,” noted Dr. Padula. “We are so grateful to the Hammersmith family for their partnership and trust.”