History Lessons, Rubbing Elbows, & Matching Funds

This past year the Surgery Department at the University of Minnesota celebrated their 110th Anniversary and created a documentary film featuring Dr. Leonard and the pioneering surgeons who paved the way for the Surgery Department to be the “first” in many surgical procedures that are common today. View the video below!

(If the video does not show, copy and paste this link in your web browser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFeIPYMk1mY&feature=youtu.be%20)

I think the film helps us understand a little more of who Dr. Leonard is, and what led him to the research that he began in the Bioengineering Lab, that continues today in the Saltzman Lab at the University of Minnesota.

Although it is a fact that donations from each one of you have been the primary funding source for the cancer research since the beginning (in addition to Dr. Leonard’s Chair in Pediatric Surgery and grants obtained by the lab), Dr. Leonard has had the ear (and support) of a few well-known faces along the way that you may find interesting.

I have no idea what Bill Murray and Dr. Leonard were talking about, but here they are together at a fundraising event in the 1980’s.

Katie Couric took some time to meet Dr. Leonard and learn about the research in the lab when she came to visit the Ronald McDonald House in 1990’s.

For the past several years, Matt Kalil of the Minnesota Vikings has been a champion for the cancer research fund, contributing in many ways including generous cash donations. He has introduced us to many other Minnesota Vikings players including Teddy Bridgewater, Brian Robison, Audie Cole, Mike Mauti, Christian Ponder, Phil Loadholt, Brandon Fusco and many more. All these guys have been so kind to our supporters giving away signed footballs, jerseys and posing for photos.

We are thrilled to announce that the Hubbard Broadcasting Foundation has made a significant contribution pledge to the cancer research lab, of a Matching Funds Gift of up to $125,000 each year for 3 years!

 Your contribution will be doubled!

The Hubbard Foundation pledge will allow us to double the amount of funds we raise for the cancer research lab. We are so thankful.

Dr. Leonard and the staff who support the Saltzman Lab at the University of Minnesota would like to take this opportunity to send you Warm Wishes for a Happy New Year! All the staff that work to support the Saltzman Lab have so much to be thankful for this year because of the ongoing commitment from our donors. Thank you.