Although Dave and Mary “Ellen” Ryan have been long-time philanthropists for The Ohio State University, having established scholarships in engineering, cancer research and
athletics, their gift of $2 million to The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center – Arthur G. James Cancer Hospital and Richard J. Solove Research Institute for ProjectONE will probably impact the greatest number of lives.
To better serve patients and meet a growing demand for its services, The Ohio State University Medical Center is embarking on a $1-billion expansion – the largest construction and renovation project in the University’s history. Named ProjectONE, this expansion includes a new cancer hospital, more critical care beds, interlocking spaces for research, teaching and patient care, and a grand concourse that links hospitals, clinics, laboratories, classrooms, garages and restaurants.
Upon hearing the original plans for ProjectONE in 2002, James Foundation Board President Dave Ryan and his wife Ellen, a cancer survivor, pledged their support. “Because others were generous and thoughtful in the past, The James was there when we needed it, and I want it to always be there for others,” says Dave.
The expansion will allow Ohio State’s Comprehensive Cancer Center – James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute to expand its patient-care services, promote basic and clinical research and bring researchers, clinicians, students and educators together in state-of-the-art facilities.
“Creating a world-class facility is good for patients because it attracts the best doctors and researchers in the world,” Dave adds. “ProjectONE will go a long way toward our goal of being a top-10 cancer hospital.
“The James is one of the best cancer centers in the world for research and for taking findings from the laboratory to the bedside. At The James, people get the latest treatments and prevention information.” says Dave.
The new facility will enhance healing by providing a more intimate and soothing environment with emphasis on patient comfort and privacy. ProjectONE will offer patients and their families a variety of amenities and comfortable common spaces that provide an opportunity to rest, reflect and regenerate during a difficult time.
“You don’t know how important it is until you need it,” Dave states. “Nothing is more important than having the right facility and the right people there when you need them.”
This story was written by Latina Duffy.