The Larry Fitzgerald Foundation has made a significant contribution to cancer care in Phoenix. The foundation has donated $1 million to Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, focusing on breast cancer research and services. This donation is the largest in the foundation’s history.
Renaming and Impact of the Donation
In recognition of this donation, the Laura Dreier Breast Center will be renamed the Carol Fitzgerald Breast Health Center. This tribute honors Larry Fitzgerald’s late mother, who passed away from breast cancer at the age of 47 in 2003.
The substantial donation aims to enhance breast cancer care, treatment, and education throughout the Phoenix area. Fitzgerald emphasized the importance of equal access to quality screening and early detection in his statement. “By naming this center after my mother, Carol, we honor her legacy as an advocate,” he said.
Long-Standing Relationship with Banner Health
Larry Fitzgerald has had a partnership with Banner Health for over 15 years. This collaboration deepened in late 2024 with the launch of his Breast Believe Campaign, initiated in November 2022. This initiative features the mobile mammography unit known as “The BIG Pink Bus.”
- The BIG Pink Bus travels around the Valley.
- It aims to educate the community on early detection and prevention of breast cancer.
- It highlights symptoms to watch for regarding breast cancer.
Addressing Rising Breast Cancer Rates
As breast cancer cases continue to increase, particularly among younger women, the need for accessible care has never been more crucial. Dr. David Paul, senior physician executive at Banner University Medical Center Phoenix, stated that this generous donation would significantly impact many lives.
Fitzgerald’s contribution not only honors his mother’s memory but also ensures crucial resources are available for women in the community facing breast cancer.
