Erlanger announced today a "transformative" $1.27 million gift designated for Children’s Hospital from an anonymous donor, who was a physician and longtime Erlanger employee.
"Coming just days after the record-setting Believe Bash, which raised $1.67 million, this gift marks a powerful moment in Erlanger’s history, underscoring the role that philanthropy and planned giving play in shaping its future," officials said.
“This donation is more than a gift—it’s a legacy of compassion and commitment,” said Jim Coleman, president and CEO of Erlanger.
“This extraordinary act of generosity will have a profound and lasting impact on the health and well-being of children. We appreciate the example set by this donor who invested in the gift of life and assisted us in continuing our 120+ year mission in serving this community.”
“This gift will directly enhance the care we provide to children every single day in our region,” said Dr. Marvin Hall, chief medical officer for Children’s Hospital at Erlanger.
“This kind of support reminds us that generosity can truly shape the future of medicine,” said Deborah Spielman, vice president and CEO of Children’s Hospital at Erlanger.
Officials said, "This gift builds upon a strong tradition of philanthropic support that has already transformed care at Children’s Hospital at Erlanger. Thanks to past generosity, the hospital has funded two neonatal and pediatric critical care transport ambulances, providing life-saving care to newborns and children across the region; funded Angel Eye NICU cameras at both the Erlanger Baroness Hospital and Erlanger East Hospital, allowing families to stay virtually connected with their infants in the NICU; and completed a significant expansion of the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) to meet the growing demand. These advancements reflect Erlanger’s mission to compassionately care for people, ensuring every child receives the highest level of care in their most vulnerable moments."
Emily Niespodziany, chief development officer for Erlanger, said, “This remarkable donation shows that anyone can create a lasting impact. Whether your passion is pediatrics, cancer care or community health, planned giving makes it possible to turn your values into action.”
"Erlanger invites the community to celebrate this moment and consider how their own legacy might support exceptional care right here in Chattanooga," officials said.
To learn more about planned giving and how to create your own legacy at Erlanger, visit www.erlangerfoundation.org or call 423-778-6600 to speak with a member of the Development Office.