SPRING 2024

In Sarasota, the creation of the Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute marks a significant milestone in the journey toward providing exceptional cancer care locally. Initiated by Sarasota Memorial Healthcare Foundation, the Leading with Care campaign embarked on an ambitious mission to raise $75 million over seven years. Surpassing its goal, the campaign has become a testament to the power of community and philanthropy, raising nearly $94 million in just over six years to ensure that the residents of Sarasota would have access to unparalleled cancer treatment.

The Jellison Legacy: A Foundation of Hope
Central to this success was the 2020 transformative $25 million donation from the Brian and Sheila Jellison Family Foundation—at the time, it was the largest amount given in the Healthcare Foundation’s history. This gift, born out of the Jellison family’s battle with cancer, underscored a commitment to making sure no one would have to leave home to receive comprehensive cancer care. Brian Jellison’s legacy, celebrated for his leadership at Roper Technologies and his service as a mentor to many, inspired a movement within the community to rally for a cause that touches many lives.

Stacey Corley, President of the Healthcare Foundation, reflects on the profound impact of this contribution: “The Jellison family’s generosity not only catalyzed the expansion of our cancer care facilities, but also ignited a wave of support from the community. Their story is one of hope, inspiring others to join in our mission to provide the best possible care for every patient.”

Amplifying the Mission: Donors Making a Difference
The narrative of the Institute is further enriched by donors like Susan Milman, whose recent $16 million gift will support the operations of the new outpatient cancer pavilion. This transformational gift will not only support the pavilion’s physical expansion, but also reinforce the health system’s patient-centered healthcare vision. In recognition of the gift, and to honor her family, the facility will be named the Milman-Kover Cancer Pavilion.

“It’s critical to have state-of-the-art buildings and the latest technologies, but it’s really all about the programs, services and practitioners inside,” says Chief Program Medical Director Richard Brown, M.D. “None of that would be possible without the help of the donors who shared the vision, and stepped forward to help.”

Elevating Comprehensive Cancer Care
The forthcoming Milman-Kover Pavilion is poised to revolutionize outpatient oncology services in Sarasota. Set to open its doors in late 2025, this seven-story, 200,000-square-foot facility, located strategically across from the Oncology Tower and connected by a pedestrian sky bridge, represents a $200 million commitment to enhancing patient care.

With an array of services, including an expanded breast health center, outpatient surgery suites, and a diagnostic imaging suite featuring
the latest in CT and MRI technology, the pavilion aims to streamline and enrich the patient experience. The institute’s multidisciplinary
approach, integrating top-tier treatment with supportive services, highlights a commitment to not just treating cancer, but also caring
for individuals battling the disease.

Improving the Patient Experience
At the heart of the Institute’s mission is the patient experience, ensuring that every step of the journey is met with care and efficiency. Emphasizing collaboration and convenience, the Institute has designed a healthcare model that brings together a team of surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, oncology nurse navigators, oncology-certified nurses, pharmacists, and other specialists on the patient care team. This “tumor board” approach ensures a comprehensive diagnostic and treatment plan. Appointments are streamlined, allowing patients to see multiple specialists in a single visit.

The Institute also recognizes that cancer care extends beyond medical treatment. The Rooftop Café, offering healthy fare and stunning views, provides a relaxing respite for patients, families and staff. Integrative care services, including counseling and support groups, and other holistic treatments like acupuncture and massage therapy are available to guide patients through their journeys.

A Beacon of Hope: The Brian D. Jellison Cancer Institute
Today, the Jellison Cancer Institute stands as proof of what can be achieved when compassion meets innovation. Through the Leading with Care campaign and the generosity of the Jellison family and many others, the Institute offers a comprehensive approach to cancer care that is both cutting-edge and deeply compassionate.

Corley emphasizes the ongoing mission: “The conclusion of this campaign marks a new beginning. Our work continues, fueled by the generosity of our donors and the resilience of our patients. We are committed to advancing cancer care, research and education,
ensuring that the Jellison Cancer Institute remains a beacon of hope and healing.

“As the Healthcare Foundation looks to the future, it carries forward the legacy of those who have supported the Jellison Cancer Institute’s mission—all 1,340 of them—ensuring that Sarasota remains a place where hope thrives and quality care is always within reach.
The impact of the Leading with Care campaign and the continuing support of our community will be felt for generations to come.”

Learn more about how our supporters impact healthcare in our community.