At Cleveland Clinic, our mission is a moral compass—shaping decisions, guiding how we serve our community and fostering a culture of purpose and integrity. This year’s Little Book of Big Impact highlights our three-part mission through the voices of those who inspire us most—patients, donors and caregivers—each sharing the “why” behind their journey.
CARING for life, RESEARCHING for health, EDUCATING those who serve.
Caring for Life
Through compassionate, high-quality CARE, we treat every patient with empathy and respect while striving for the best possible health outcomes.
Dave and Rita Kiser
Little Book of Big Impact 2025
Through groundbreaking research, we seek new treatments and technologies that advance medical knowledge and improve lives.
Cleveland Clinic patient Samantha Salway holds her son—her little warrior and miracle—after running in the Cleveland Marathon’s 10K in 2024 to celebrate the end of her chemotherapy treatments for triple-negative breast cancer, which she battled while pregnant.
Donate
Care Stories That Inspire
The Renner Foundation
Scotty and Lois Campbell
Through world-renowned medical education and training, we prepare the next generation of healthcare leaders to carry our mission forward.
Bob Skerker
Carl Guerreri
Julia Ehlers Chones
Sally Terrell
Research Stories That Inspire
Julia Ehlers Chones, MSN, APRN-CNP
Joe Lubeck
The Miceli Family
Cynthia Prior
Howard Hanna Real Estate Services
Education Stories That Inspire
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At Cleveland Clinic, our patients aren’t just at the heart of everything we do—they define our very purpose. They are the “why” that drives every breakthrough, every moment of care and every step forward. Their stories are powerful reminders of what’s possible when we choose to give back.
Join our “why” by making a gift to patient care, research or education today.
Ten years ago, Dave and Rita Kiser’s grandson entered the world 10 weeks early. Josh weighed just 3 pounds and 15 ounces, and he spent his first six weeks in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Cleveland Clinic Children’s. The Kisers vividly remember the heartbreak of seeing their grandson with needles in his tiny feet and breathing tubes. Even more impactful is what they remember about the care: the extraordinary compassion of the nurses, doctors and others who stood by their family every step of the way. These dedicated caregivers worked hard to stabilize and strengthen Josh, offering not just medical expertise but comfort and hope. Today, Josh is a healthy, happy and exceptionally sweet young man. Grateful for the care that changed their family’s story, the Kisers are giving back. Their message is simple yet powerful. Every child deserves the best chance at a healthy life. And for them, giving is a way to help make that chance possible for others.
“We’ve truly been blessed—and for Josh, it was a happy ending. That’s why we give. It’s our way of sharing the gratitude with others.”
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– Rita Kiser
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Support Our Why
While art and music enrich our lives, they can also be powerful therapeutic tools for patients, lifting spirits, soothing pain and promoting the healing journey. When the Renner Foundation learned of an opportunity to preserve the Art and Music Therapy program at Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest Hospital, they responded with a heartfelt tribute to Mary Renner. An artist herself, Mary believed in the impact creativity could have on people. She entrusted the Renner Foundation to carry forward her vision, and her two nieces, Ann R. Stillwater and Karen R. Sargent, described how it honors her. Through a $1.6 million endowment, art and music therapy will remain a vibrant, healing part of the patient experience at Hillcrest Hospital. The healthcare facility held a special place in Mary’s heart. Her father, R. Richard Renner, MD, founded Hillcrest Hospital in 1968, making this dedication all the more meaningful. Through the Renner Foundation, their family’s legacy continues to uplift and inspire.
“For many people, art and music can be a pathway into a deeper part of themselves that might bring them some emotional and spiritual strength when they’re going through a tough time. It heals us. This feels like a great way to honor our Aunt Mary.”
– Ann R. Stillwater
Art therapists work alongside patients in the art studio at Taussig Cancer Center.
Whenever there’s a need, Scotty and Lois Campbell are the first to step up. Whether it’s backing the Catalyst Grants program at Cleveland Clinic or helping equip the local fire department, they’re always ready to lend a hand. After Cleveland Clinic saved Scotty’s life, he felt a deep calling to give back. What started as a minor foot infection quickly turned serious. But Scotty, ever the tough guy, tried to power through. By the time he sought help, the infection had spread, and he was in real danger. Thanks to the expert care he received, Scotty recovered, and he’s never forgotten it. Today, he shares his story with family and friends, encouraging them to turn to Cleveland Clinic when it matters most. Together, Scotty and Lois support the Catalyst Grants program to make the greatest impact possible. They understand that exceptional care takes a team of doctors, nurses and caregivers working together to change lives.
“I’ve been really fortunate. I’ve always got more in my life, so I always give more. We try to help everybody that we can.”
– Scotty Campbell
At Cleveland Clinic, the spirit of service runs deep. But for siblings Julia, Justis and Jacob Ehlers, it runs in the family. Though they work in different institutes across the organization, they’re united by a shared purpose: making a difference in the lives of others. That purpose became deeply personal after the loss of their father to prostate cancer earlier this year. Julia Ehlers Chones, MSN, APRN-CNP, has turned her grief into action by starting Riding With Heart—Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute’s unified VeloSano team. Together with her colleagues, she is raising vital funds for cancer research. While her “why” began as a tribute to her dad, it has since grown into a mission to help others overcome these challenges. Through VeloSano, Julia has discovered a powerful sense of connection. Now with every mile ridden in Bike to Cure, Julia and her brothers aren’t just honoring their father’s memory; they’re helping to build a future where no family has to face cancer alone.
“My ‘why’ will always be my dad because I’m proud of him, his fight and the person he was and still is to me. The VeloSano community has turned into this beautiful light that I’m so proud to continue to honor him with.”
– Julia Ehlers Chones
Jacob Ehlers (left), Julia Ehlers Chones (center) and Justis Ehlers (right) pose in front of the Why I Ride wall during Bike to Cure 2024.
After losing his beloved wife, Betty, to Alzheimer’s disease, Carl Guerreri made it his personal mission—a vendetta, as he calls it—to help end this devastating neurological disorder. While today’s treatments can ease symptoms, there is still no cure. That’s why supporting Alzheimer’s research is not just important but essential. Carl grew up with the belief that helping others is simply what you do. He remembers his parents always finding ways to help others, whether it was dropping money into a red Salvation Army kettle or lending a hand to the local women’s club during the holidays. Generosity is a tradition in his Italian family that he now passes down. Before Betty passed away on Christmas Eve in 2020, the Guerreris built a beautiful life together, raising four children and welcoming 12 grandchildren. Carl’s dedication to Alzheimer’s research is both a tribute to Betty and a step toward building a future she would be proud of.
“I think giving back is something everyone should do when they can. Every little bit helps because if nobody ever puts a drop in the bucket, the bucket will never get filled. But if enough people do, it will.”
– Carl Guerreri
When his father underwent heart surgery in the 1970s, Bob Skerker never imagined that decades later, he too would place his trust—and his heart—in the care of the very same cardiologist, Frederick A. Heupler Jr., MD, who had once guided his father’s recovery. After surviving a cardiac emergency while on business in China in 1994, Bob returned home to Dr. Heupler’s steady guidance. Determined to prevent future scares, Dr. Heupler prescribed a regimen of diet, exercise and medication. Over the years, they grew into longtime friends who enjoyed discussing the latest innovations in heart care. Now retired from the Jacobs Institute, Bob has had a front-row seat to the evolution of cardiovascular innovation. In honor of Dr. Heupler, he’s made an estate gift to the Sydell and Arnold Miller Family Heart, Vascular & Thoracic Institute to fuel AI-driven cardiovascular research.
“This gift is in honor of Fred for what he has done for me and my family, as well as thousands of other patients.”
– Bob Skerker
After learning about the Cleveland Clinic Brain Study, Sally Terrell and her husband, Steve, were immediately intrigued. Diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease at just 46, Sally found the idea of tracking brain changes over time in the general population to be both simple and brilliant. She hopes the research will lead to a better understanding of neurological conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease. Recognizing the importance of advancing brain science, she and Steve made a generous gift to support the study and help drive critical discoveries. Sally also serves on the Neurological Institute’s Advisory Committee, helping boost its visibility and attract support for neurological innovation and care. Looking ahead, Sally balances optimism with stoicism. She emphasizes the importance of living each day with intention and encourages others with Parkinson’s to stay active and seek medical care.
“We feel very blessed that we can hopefully help others. I can't make people well, but I can help fund brain research by giving to a place like Cleveland Clinic, where so many patients will benefit.”
– Sally Terrell
One of Sally Terrell’s greatest joys is spending time with her grandkids.
Helping people find their dream homes is only one part of Howard Hanna Real Estate Services’ story. For over three decades, their commitment to community health has shone through the Children’s Free Care Fund. This initiative has raised millions of dollars to support nearly 20 children’s hospitals across the country. Each year, Howard Hanna employees rally behind this mission by organizing a wide range of creative and heartfelt fundraisers, from luncheons to designer bag bingo to golf outings. Each event helps to ensure that every child can access the medical care they need. Their generosity supports Cleveland Clinic Children’s School-Based Health Program, where kids who are uninsured, underinsured or in need can receive essential care. The Mobile Health Unit brings healthcare directly to partnering schools so students can stay healthy, stay in class and stay on track to learn and grow.
“For us, it’s about making a difference in people's lives through real estate and supporting other vital aspects that make our community strong. The Children’s Free Care Fund is one of the most valuable ways we can make a lasting impact.”
– Brooke Echnat
The Mobile Health Unit travels throughout Cleveland so caregivers can easily provide care for children in a welcoming environment.
For Cynthia Prior, education is not just important; it is life-changing. While she and her family have experienced exceptional care at Cleveland Clinic, her transformational gift goes beyond gratitude, creating a lasting legacy of compassion. She believes in strengthening the foundation of healthcare by investing in those who deliver it: nurses. Cynthia’s commitment to nursing education stems from her belief that continuous learning is essential, especially in a world that is constantly changing. She is someone who strives to be part of something greater than herself, drawn to innovation and to progress. For her, giving back is a way to enhance the health of Cleveland and improve the well-being of the entire community. She understands that nursing education doesn’t just transform one life. It positively impacts the nurse, uplifts their own family and touches every patient they care for. It goes far beyond the classroom, shaping the future of healthcare with every life it reaches.
“I’ve always believed that education, when you truly apply yourself, has the power to change your life. It opens doors that few other things can. It engenders curiosity, and that curiosity leads to a richer, more meaningful life. It’s the gift that keeps on giving.”
– Cynthia Prior
The Miceli family has proudly operated a beloved Italian cheese business rooted in Cleveland for generations. Their dedication to quality and tradition is matched by a deep commitment to the community, reflected in everything from crafting exceptional products to supporting local organizations like Cleveland Clinic. Many members of their family have experienced Cleveland Clinic care firsthand, from life-changing surgeries and rehabilitation services to specialized programs like the Lerner School for Autism, which they can’t say enough great things about. Their relationship with Cleveland Clinic has always been close to home—from receiving care to providing it through family members who worked as caregivers. Driven by the belief that uplifting the community benefits everyone, the Micelis actively support school programs, neighborhood initiatives and more, each effort a step toward a stronger, more vibrant Cleveland. Inspired by the people they serve, they continue to champion causes that create lasting change for generations to come.
“We feel incredibly fortunate. Cleveland has given so much to our family, and we want to give back. Education is a key pillar of a thriving community, and we need to make sure people have access to great education.”
– Maria Miceli
At Cleveland Clinic Children’s Center for Autism, children receive thoughtful, individualized care through services such as clinical Applied Behavioral Analysis therapy, outpatient speech and language support and tailored education at the Lerner School for Autism.
For Joe Lubeck, giving isn’t just a gesture—it’s a way of life shaped by second chances. Through one of those, he’s helping advance cardiac care by supporting a groundbreaking initiative that strengthens collaboration between Cleveland Clinic’s teams in Ohio and Florida. Joe’s journey with Cleveland Clinic began when his father needed complex heart surgery. A surgeon in Philadelphia recommended Cleveland Clinic, where his father underwent a lifesaving procedure and lived another 23 years. That experience left a mark. For Joe’s family, heart disease has been a recurring chapter. His mother passed away from it, and Joe faced his own battle. After multiple stents and worsening symptoms, he turned to Cleveland Clinic. Diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and atrial fibrillation, he underwent a hybrid ablation, emerging stronger than he’d felt in decades. Today, Joe gives back with purpose. His family established a first-of-its-kind program to expand cardiac expertise and improve access to care and research in Florida. He hopes to benefit patients beyond those who can afford to fly to Cleveland. It’s his way of honoring the care that gave him a second chance and ensuring others get theirs too.
“I’ve been blessed. And the more you give, the more you get. I’m living proof of that.”
– Joe Lubeck
