The Providence Together Campaign has received a pledge of $1 million to support the Oregon Medical Laser Center (OMLC), one of the key research programs within Providence Heart and Vascular Institute.
This commitment will support Kenton Gregory, M.D., cardiologist and medical director for OMLC, and his team of researchers as they continue their efforts to explore new applications for cell therapy research - applications that promise to improve the quality of life for patients with advance heart failure, severe nerve damage and many others in need.
“With the support our friends in the community, the promising science and understanding we’ve gained over the past decade can now be used to launch regenerative therapies into clinical use for our patients,” says Dr. Gregory. “Our goal is to become the first clinical center to offer adult stem cell therapies in the Pacific Northwest and one of the most advanced clinically-oriented research establishments in the world. There are many great things for medicine and mankind that can now be done with the proper resources.”
The anonymous donors have challenged the Foundations to raise an additional $1 million by December 31, 2007 to match their leadership commitment. Matching gifts may be directed in support of the Laser Center’s work or other priorities of Providence Heart and Vascular Institute.
Heart and vascular research and program development are among the top priorities of the Providence Together Campaign. The Laser Center’s cell therapy programs, the creation of a multidisciplinary Atrial-Fibrillation Clinic within Providence Heart and Vascular Institute, and expansion of the Heart and Vascular Institute’s prevention and wellness programs are among the projects for which the Foundations are seeking funds.