[Skip to Content]

Gala and Radiothon raise more than $250,000

SYRACUSE, N.Y.— Central New Yorkers demonstrated their commitment to SUNY Upstate Medical University by raising more than $252,000 at two major events presented in December by the Upstate Medical University Foundation — the Gala and the Sixth Annual Golisano Children's Hospital Radiothon.

"We thank Central New Yorkers for their continued support and are grateful for their commitment to help us meet the needs of our patients," said Eileen M. Pezzi, vice president for development at SUNY Upstate Medical University.

Hundreds of people gathered Dec. 12 at the Hotel Syracuse for 2008 Gala, raising more than $200,000 in support of multifaceted cancer care at SUNY Upstate. The proceeds will be a stepping stone in the funding of SUNY Upstate's vision for an Upstate Cancer Center.

"This vision builds on the attention and resources SUNY Upstate is already committing to fighting cancer," Pezzi said. "Through its relentless and even groundbreaking pursuit of cures and treatments, SUNY Upstate has become nationally and internationally regarded for the comprehensiveness of its programs and expertise of its staff."

SUNY Upstate has earned the Outstanding Achievement Award from the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons that ranks SUNY Upstate in the top seven percent of cancer care facilities in the country.

The Sixth Annual Golisano Children's Hospital Radiothon raised more than $52,000 through telephone pledges and the radiothon's Change Bandit campaign. The Radiothon was broadcast live on NewsRadio570 WSYR Dec. 4 and 5 from the second floor lobby at University Hospital. All money raised through the radiothon and its related activities remains in Central New York to benefit children who are treated at University Hospital, home of the future Golisano Children's Hospital at Upstate, projected to open in fall of 2009.

"On behalf of the children and their families, I thank everyone who pledged or who made a direct contribution for their generosity," said Toni Gary, director of community relations for the upcoming Golisano Children's Hospital at Upstate.

NewsRadio 570 WSYR, Upstate Medical University Foundation and the Children's Miracle Network presented the radiothon. NewChannel 9—WSYR TV provided promotional support.

Top