Stories
With the generous support of our donors, we are impacting lives here in Orange County every day.


Quiet Generosity
Fueling the future of care
We are honored to recognize the profound generosity of dedicated donors who have recently made legacy gifts to enhance patient care at Providence St. Jude Medical Center.
Helpful Neighbors: John and Jeanette Svet
Longtime residents of Brea and loyal supporters of Providence St. Jude since 1993, the Svet family has left an indelible mark on the broader community. Their recent gift will further advance technology and innovation at the medical center, a fitting continuation of their decades-long commitment to supporting groundbreaking initiatives.
The Svets have been instrumental in advancing community health, cardiac services and cancer care, among other areas. They have also been ardent supporters of the Neighbors Helping Neighbors event for nearly 20 years. Their philanthropic spirit has also driven advancements in the Southwest and Northwest patient towers during our capital campaigns.
Generous Heart: Nancy Huebotter
For Nancy Huebotter, volunteerism at Providence St. Jude Medical Center is more than just a commitment; it’s a cherished family tradition. Nancy began her journey of service in 1985, working side by side with her mother, Elizabeth, who had already been volunteering since 1971. Together, they dedicated countless hours to supporting the hospital and its patients, forming a bond through shared purpose and compassion.
Since 1998, Nancy has been a loyal supporter of numerous hospital initiatives. Her recent legacy gift will support the area of greatest need, ensuring that the hospital continues to provide exceptional care to all who walk through its doors.
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Humble Champion
David Batterman’s journey with Providence St. Jude began in 1996 with lifesaving six-way bypass surgery. This marked the start of…
Expanding Hope
In a pivotal step to enhance cancer care services, the Crosson Cancer Institute is expanding its infusion center. In a…
Glamour and Gratitude
The generosity and enthusiasm of A Walk Among the Stars Fashion Show and Gala attendees culminated in $933,000 raised to…
Easing the Healing Journey
Providence St. Jude Medical Center recently received an $825,000 grant from the California Department of Rehabilitation to support comprehensive care…
Partner in Philanthropy
Providence St. Jude Memorial Foundation proudly recognized Stewart Shanfield, M.D., as the 2024 Philanthropy Physician Champion.
Every Cent Counts | Spring 2025
Inspiring stories of generosity and the remarkable ways people give back to their communities
Investing In The Future
A prolific philanthropist, Richard’s gratitude made him a loyal supporter of Providence St. Jude Medical Center for the past 25…
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Navigating the Cancer Journey
When Jane was diagnosed with breast cancer, Nurse Navigator Angela Acevedo became her advocate, guide and support -- from the initial meeting with the oncologist to the final chemotherapist treatment. I will never forget all the ways Angela helped me through a very difficult time in my life,” reflects Jane.
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Minutes that make a difference
Michael Lora woke up not knowing he would be fighting for his life later that day. Within hours he was being transported to St. Joseph Hospital Emergency Care Center. He was immediately met by a team of nurses and doctors, including Dr. Peter Smethurst who recommended antibiotics which ended up saving his life.
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The heart of the matter
“I was a ticking time bomb. A heart attack waiting to happen.” Carrol was informed she needed immediate bypass surgery, but a rare genetic disorder would make it unsafe to perform. That’s when St. Joseph Hospital came through with a new, minimally invasive technique.
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A life devoted to caring
Shirley Moretti, a donor and friend, said it best. “When we focus on others, we learn about ourselves.” Giving back to others was one of her greatest joys in life — it filled her heart and inspired countless others to follow in her footsteps.
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Leaving a legacy through giving
A dedicated and compassionate caregiver at St. Joseph Hospital for decades, Melvin Schwartz and his wife demonstrated their friendship and support for the Hospital by establishing a legacy through a generous charitable planned gift.
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One of the best ever
More than 300 golfers enjoyed a day that included two 18-hole courses of golf and raised more than $405,000 in support of the St. Joseph Hospital’s Cardiovascular Program.
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A record-breaking event
Supported by Marsha Moeller and presented by Centaurus Financial, Inc. and The Gooding-Barry and Immell Families, Celebration 2019 raised a record-breaking $676,000 for the Nursing Center of Excellence while celebrating 90 years of healing at St. Joseph Hospital.
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