The donation, made in loving memory of Katie Parkhill who bravely faced her own breast cancer
journey, will advance diagnostic and surgical technology, expand nurse navigator support, and enhance patient-centered services at Mills Breast Cancer Institute. Katie's experience highlighted the vital role of innovative imaging, personalized care coordination, and compassionate support in the healing process. The Parkhill family's generosity ensures that future patients will benefit from these essential resources, helping others navigate their own cancer journeys with hope and strength."Through Katie's journey, we witnessed the extraordinary difference that advanced technology and a compassionate team can make," said David Parkhill. "Our family is humbled to honor Katie in this way—by helping others who will walk the path she walked. This gift is our promise that her legacy will live on at Mills Breast Cancer Institute, bringing comfort and care to countless families."
The newly established Katie Parkhill and Family Fund will:
- Expand access to state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging technology, including 3D mammography and advanced breast imaging tools.
- Acquire leading-edge surgical technology to reduce patient discomfort and surgical time and improve clinical outcomes.
- Support and grow the breast cancer nurse navigator program, ensuring patients receive individualized guidance, emotional support, and care coordination throughout their treatment.
Dr. Sinisa Stanic, MD, Medical Director at Carle Cancer Institute, emphasized the importance of this investment. "Katie touched so many lives with her courage and grace. The Parkhill family's gift in her honor is truly transformational. It allows us to strengthen cancer care in ways that matter most—providing advanced technology and personal support that improve outcomes and give patients comfort and confidence in their care."
This gift commitment is a lead gift to The Campaign for Carle Health, a $60 million comprehensive campaign to advance healthcare innovation, expand access, and transform patient experiences across the Carle Health system.
"Philanthropy like this is truly transformational," said Angie Hatfield Marker, Executive Director of Development and Campaigns for Carle Health Center for Philanthropy. "The generosity of the David and Katie Parkhill family not only honors Katie's life but also ensures patients right here in our communities have access to the absolute best technology, the latest treatment, and the most compassionate care. This gift is a powerful reminder of how giving can change lives today and for generations to come."
As part of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Carle Health Center for Philanthropy invites anyone wishing to honor Katie's memory to contribute to the Katie Parkhill and Family Fund at Mills Breast Cancer Institute. Gifts of any size will continue Katie's legacy by supporting patients and families facing breast cancer across our region. To contribute, visit carle.org/give-change or contact Carle Health Center for Philanthropy at philanthropy@carle.com or (217) 383-3021.
For more information on this donation and the impact of Mills Breast Cancer Institute, or to schedule an interview, please contact Carle Health Public Relations at CarleHealthPublicRelations@carle.com or (217) 902-5201.
Categories: Culture of Quality, Community
Tags: breast, cancer, carle, center, for, giving, health, oncology, philanthropy