$5 Million Gift Commitment for Cancer Care Resources and Innovation
Inspired by the expert, compassionate cancer care that her late husband, William “Bill” Brunk received from Yvonne Efebera, MD, Janet Smith has pledged $2M over five years to build the endowment for the William Brunk Endowed Chair in Cancer Care and a $3M estate gift to create the William Brunk Cancer Innovation Fund.
The William Brunk Endowed Chair in Cancer Care will provide resources to attract and retain top clinical talent in OhioHealth’s cancer program. The William Brunk Cancer Innovation Fund will support the greatest needs of OhioHealth’s cancer program including facilities and support for patients and caregivers.
Dr. Efebera (pictured at left with Bill) is actively involved in cancer research and internationally recognized for her work in multiple myeloma and blood and marrow transplant. The transformational gift that Janet Smith has made is a testament to the dedication and devotion Dr. Efebera shows to all her patients.
“I was inspired to make this gift to honor my husband and to recognize the compassionate care Bill received from Dr. Efebera,” said Janet Smith. “When he had an appointment with her, he would say, ‘I get to see Effie today.’ And he would smile. What she gave to him, and to me, was hope.”
Janet shared that Bill, who passed away in March 2020, never dreaded his medical appointments because he always looked forward to seeing Dr. Efebera. Her clinical expertise not only impressed them, but it was her deep compassion and ability to connect with Bill that really made a difference in his cancer treatment.
As Dr. Efebera shared, her guiding principle is to make every patient a priority. “Patient care means treating every patient as if he or she is family,” she said. “I think about if I were in this situation, what would I want my physician to do for me? I strive to make every patient feel as if they are the most important.”
“At the very first visit we had with Dr. Efebera, she came in and gave us both a hug,” said Janet. “She held Bill’s hand and said: ‘You two go live and enjoy your life. I’m going to take care of the rest.’ Her love for people and her profession is palpable, and you can feel the difference.”
“This $5 million transformative gift will impact the lives of cancer patients and support OhioHealth’s vision to provide exceptional care for all,” said Karen Morrison, President, OhioHealth Foundation and OhioHealth Senior Vice President. “We are grateful for Janet Smith’s gift and join her in recognizing the incredible work of Dr. Efebera and the compassionate care she shows to every patient.”
To learn more about the OhioHealth Foundation, click here.
