The University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute receives a generous $13.5 million gift to support research and patient care initiatives for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The donation will establish an endowed support services fund, provide technical assistive devices, and create two endowed chair positions. This significant contribution will transform the future of ALS research and care.
Generous $13.5 Million Gift Supports ALS Research and Patient Care Initiatives
( Credit to: Alsnewstoday )
The University of Cincinnati Gardner Neuroscience Institute in Ohio has received a generous gift of $13.5 million to support research and patient care initiatives for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The donation comes from the estate of Hugh H. Hoffman, a University of Cincinnati graduate.
Dr. Robert Neel, the director of the clinic, expressed his gratitude for the donation, calling it "meteoric" and "climate-changing" for ALS patients and their families. ALS is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that progressively affects nerve cells responsible for muscle control, leading to the loss of mobility, speech, eating, and breathing abilities.
Renaming the Clinic to Honor Hugh H. Hoffman
The ALS Multidisciplinary Clinic at the institute will be renamed the Hugh H. Hoffman ALS/Motor Neuron Disease Multidisciplinary Clinic, pending approval from the board of trustees.
Dr. Robert Neel, the director of the clinic, expressed his gratitude for the donation, calling it "meteoric" and "climate-changing" for ALS patients and their families. ALS is a devastating neurodegenerative disease that progressively affects nerve cells responsible for muscle control, leading to the loss of mobility, speech, eating, and breathing abilities.
Comprehensive Multidisciplinary Care and Support Services
The funds from Hoffman's donation will be used to establish an endowed support services fund, ensuring that ALS patients have access to comprehensive multidisciplinary care from specialists with the appropriate expertise.
The donation will also contribute to research efforts and the provision of technical assistive devices for patients who have lost limb and speech functions.
Endowed Chair Positions for Patient Care and Research
In addition to these initiatives, the gift will create two endowed chair positions. The first chair will focus on patient care and clinical needs, and Dr. Neel will be the first appointed to this position.
The second chair will be dedicated to research and will be filled by a national expert who will focus on understanding ALS, its causes, and potential new treatments.
A Personal Connection and Lasting Impact
The personal connection between Hoffman and ALS adds significance to this generous donation. Hoffman's father passed away from the disease, motivating him to become a long-time supporter of ALS research and care.
The nephews and co-executors of Hoffman's estate, Bert and Steve Bullock, expressed their confidence in the University of Cincinnati and UC Health's ability to transform the future of ALS research and care.
Continued Support for ALS Research
Earlier this year, the ALS Association received a record-breaking $58 million from Hoffman's estate, further demonstrating his commitment to fighting this devastating disease.
Dr. Neel believes that Hoffman's personal connection to ALS highlights the impact of witnessing a loved one suffer from the disease and emphasizes the importance of taking care of one another.
Investment in the University and the Community
Hoffman's estate also endowed $56 million to the University of Cincinnati in 2023 for the creation of the Hoffman Honors Scholar Program, which supports student athletes.
Overall, Hoffman's incredible investment in the University of Cincinnati and the greater Cincinnati community will create a sustainable future of world-class care and research for ALS patients.