Celebrating John: A Story of Strength, Hope and Love on His 2nd Birthday
PATIENT SPOTLIGHT

Celebrating John’s 2nd Birthday: A Journey of Hope, Strength and Miracles
Born at just 23 weeks and weighing barely over a pound, John’s life began with uncertainty but also with fierce love and determination. After spending 17 months in the care of St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital and St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, he’s now home, thriving, and celebrating a milestone once thought impossible: his 2nd birthday. John’s journey was filled with challenges from critical oxygen needs and life-threatening setbacks to multiple surgeries, including a tracheostomy and a tracheopexy to save his collapsing airway. At one of the lowest points, a NICU nurse made it possible for his parents to hold him, despite his fragile state. That moment of connection sparked a turning point John began to stabilize, and a miracle unfolded. Throughout his time in the NICU and PICU, John became part of a hospital family who celebrated his every victory cheering him on at his first birthday party and lining the hallways for a tearful clap-out when he was finally discharged. Today, John weighs nearly 30 pounds, is working toward coming off the ventilator, and continues to amaze his care team. His story is one of resilience, the power of compassionate care, and the strength of a little boy deeply loved.
EVENT SPOTLIGHT

A Record-Breaking Night: Thank You for Making the 2025 Heroes Ball Unforgettable
We’re filled with gratitude after an unforgettable evening at the 2025 Heroes Ball, where nearly 900 guests helped raise a record-breaking $2.6 million for the children and families served by St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. We are deeply thankful to event Co-Chairs Sam and Casey Ellison and our dedicated Heroes Ball Committee for making this our most successful event yet. Held at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street and presented by Robins & Morton, the night featured powerful moments including a moving video about Jeremiah’s journey, and exclusive auction experiences with Chef Geoffrey Zakarian and Rob Gronkowski. During the event, we proudly honored Ron and Joyce Wanek as our 2025 Community Hero Award recipients. Proceeds will expand our Nurse Navigator Program, offering more families personalized support through complex care. Thank you for helping us bring hope and healing to the children who need it most.

Save the Date: The 2026 Heroes Ball returns April 11, 2026, chaired by former NFL tight end Kyle Rudolph and his wife, Jordan Rudolph.
EVENT SPOTLIGHT

Philanthropic Women of St. Joseph’s Goes Behind the Scenes During Annual Backstage Pass Event
Last week, our Philanthropic Women of St. Joseph’s gathered for an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at St. Joseph’s Hospitals during our annual Backstage Pass luncheon. This special event brings together both new and returning members to connect, explore the programs they help make possible, and tour the impactful services offered across our hospitals. Guests also had the opportunity to hear from two experienced, board-certified physicians pediatric surgeon Dr. Grant Geissler and interventional radiologist Dr. Matt Berlet and see what it takes to provide life-saving care for our community’s children with complex surgical needs and emergencies. From advanced technologies to life-saving tools, members got an inside look at how our team works to change lives every day. We would like to thank the Philanthropic Women of St. Joseph’s for their steadfast, continued support of our hospitals and the patients we serve.
MISSION SPOTLIGHT
Enhancing Care for Newborns at St. Joseph’s Hospital-North
St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation is proud to support the continued growth and excellence of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North, which will soon expand its services with the opening of a new eight-bed Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) in summer 2025. This new Level II NICU will provide around-the-clock, specialized care for premature and medically fragile newborns bringing advanced neonatal services closer to families in northern Hillsborough and Pasco counties. A standout feature includes two “couplet care” rooms, allowing mothers and babies to remain together during NICU stays. This family-centered care model is the first of its kind in the Tampa Bay area and one of the first in Florida. Each private NICU room will offer space for a parent or loved one to stay overnight, helping keep families close during a critical time. For infants needing advanced treatment, the NICU will coordinate seamless transfers to St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital’s Level IV NICU. We are proud to champion the mission and impact of St. Joseph’s Hospital-North as it continues to deliver compassionate, expert care to our community’s youngest and most vulnerable patients.
COMMUNITY PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Subaru of Wesley Chapel Brings Easter Cheer to Young Patients at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital 
A heartfelt thank you to Subaru of Wesley Chapel for bringing smiles, laughter and a little springtime magic to the patients at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. In celebration of Easter, Subaru hosted a fun-filled lobby activity that gave our young patients a joyful break from their hospital rooms. From colorful arts and crafts and interactive games to an exciting egg hunt, the day was packed with cheerful moments and meaningful connections. These special experiences help brighten a child’s stay in the hospital and remind families that they’re surrounded by a caring and compassionate community. We are so grateful to Subaru for their continued support and generosity. It’s because of partners like them that we’re able to bring comfort, joy and healing to the children we serve. Thank you, Subaru, for helping make this Easter extra special!
COMMUNITY PARTNER SPOTLIGHT

Clays that Care Raises More Than $64,000 for Neurosurgical Advancements at St. Joseph’s Hospitals
We are grateful for our incredible community partner, BSA LifeStructures, for their continued support of St. Joseph’s Hospitals. At the 5th annual Clays that Care sporting tournament, BSA LifeStructures raised an impressive $64,850 to support the advancement of neurosurgical care across St. Joseph’s Hospitals. With 36 foursomes taking part in a day filled with clay shooting, camaraderie and purpose, the event was a powerful display of community in action. From friendly competition to meaningful conversations, Clays that Care brought together partners, friends, and supporters all united by a shared goal of enhancing care for patients in need of highly specialized treatment. We are deeply grateful to BSA LifeStructures for hosting this impactful event and to everyone who participated and contributed to its success. Together, we’re helping ensure patients and families have access to world-class neurosurgical care, close to home.