November 2025
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As we enter November — and a season of reflection and gratitude — we’re reminded of your extraordinary generosity. Your philanthropy transforms lives, offers hope and builds a healthier future for our community. This month, we’re proud to highlight three donors whose generosity is making a meaningful difference:
Finally, we celebrate HonorHealth’s academic medicine partnership with the newly re-named John Shufeldt School of Medicine and Medical Engineering at ASU, a bold step in transforming patient care through innovation and education. We’re grateful for every donor, advocate and story that inspires us. Jared A. Langkilde, MBA, CFRE |
Dear friends,
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Celebrating the life and legacy of Howard Katz With deep gratitude and admiration, we remember Howard Katz, whose unwavering commitment to improving the quality of healthcare in our community and ensuring access to care for all patients has left a lasting impact that will continue to benefit generations to come. A former Chair of the HonorHealth Foundation Board, Howard’s legacy with HonorHealth spans more than 20 years of dedicated service, philanthropy and advocacy. Together with his wife Ellen, he established the Ellen and Howard Katz Family Patient Assistance Endowment, a meaningful expression of their shared values and compassion for patients facing financial hardship. In 2022, we had the privilege of honoring Ellen and Howard at the 45th Honor Ball, a celebration of their extraordinary contributions and leadership. HonorHealth Foundation extends our heartfelt condolences to Ellen and the entire Katz family during this difficult time. Howard’s legacy will remain a guiding light in our mission and work. Watch the video below to learn more about the Ellen and Howard Katz Family Patient Assistance Endowment: Support the Ellen and Howard Katz Family Patient Assistance Endowment
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Grateful patients – Impactful philanthropists The Giovans know healthcare. Dr. Peter Giovan enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an orthopedic surgeon, first in California, then here in Arizona. His wife, Barbara, dedicated 43 years to leading hospital laboratories, overseeing 14 labs at the time of her retirement. Together, they devoted their lives to improving the health and well-being of others. But recently, their own healthcare journeys have taken center stage. Just as the couple embarked on their golden years of retirement, they were faced with a variety of serious and complex health issues. Cancer, heart disease, a nonmalignant brain tumor. With each new diagnosis, they sought out the very best care. “I was diagnosed with multiple myeloma and was told that the national head of the myeloma society was at HonorHealth Shea,” shares Dr. Giovan. “I have seen him several times and I follow his treatment plan regime. After being diagnosed three years ago, my blood work is normal.” Barbara was one of 300 patients to participate in a clinical trial of the world’s first dual chamber leadless pacemaker. The revolutionary device was successfully implanted in her, and 21 other HonorHealth patients, by Dr. Rahul Doshi, an electrophysiologist in the HonorHealth Research Institute’s Cardiovascular Research Division. “I was told that I needed a second open heart surgery to repair my mitral and tricuspid valves,” Barbara adds. “My first open heart surgery was performed at a different hospital system. I asked around and was referred to HonorHealth and was told they had excellent cardiologists and cardiac surgeons. My second open heart surgery was performed in 2022 and turned out perfect. I was extremely happy with the care I received.” Because of the exceptional care they’ve received over the years, Peter and Barbara have chosen to give back to HonorHealth in a deeply meaningful way. As Desert Mountain CARE philanthropists, the Giovans are supporting promising research in cancer and cardiovascular care, helping to ensure that others can benefit from the same world-class treatment they experienced. Their visionary generosity, along with that of donors just like them, empowers HonorHealth to redefine what’s possible in medicine, advancing groundbreaking therapies, improving patient outcomes and elevating the standard of care for all. Few understand better than the Giovans that philanthropy touches every aspect of the patient experience at HonorHealth. Their kindness and compassion continue to strengthen our mission to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve. “We are grateful patients who received excellent, compassionate care from world-class physicians,” Peter explains. “HonorHealth’s team approach to treatment, advanced therapies and innovative technologies helped save our lives more than once. Supporting HonorHealth Foundation accelerates research, innovation and treatment to benefit future patients.” Peter and Barbara, your generosity and gratitude inspire us all. And for that, we are truly thankful!
Croquet for a Cure: A game-changing community event A mother's love ignites a philanthropic passion “My mom was the life of the party, always hosting with elegance and warmth. That’s where the idea of croquet came from,” Meg says with a smile. “Croquet is fun, accessible and a little bit competitive — just like the parties she threw.” In 2021, Meg and Steve partnered with HonorHealth, kicking off their first Croquet for a Cure event. What started as a modest gathering with a few raffle baskets and close friends, has blossomed into a significant annual event. The growth has been astonishing. In their second year, they raised nearly $75,000, with more than $72,000 directly benefiting the cause. The secret to their success lies in their collaboration with HonorHealth Foundation, which provided the infrastructure, guidance and expertise to help grow the event. “They helped us see that this wasn’t just a one-time event. It’s an ongoing partnership,” Meg explains. “They showed us how to take a simple idea and turn it into something with real, lasting impact. Advancing Alzheimer's care, together
As Steve reflects on the journey, he acknowledges the deep personal connection they both share to the cause. “Even though we don’t know the people who directly benefit from our efforts, it still feels incredibly personal to us. We’ve experienced the heartbreak of watching a loved one struggle with dementia, and now we’re doing everything we can to make sure others don’t have to go through that same pain,” he shares. One of the most inspiring elements of Croquet for a Cure is its ability to bring people together. The event has become more than just a fundraiser — it’s a celebration of community. “It’s about recognizing that this disease affects us all, and together, we can make a difference,” Meg says. Her sister recently made a poignant observation: “It’s not just Croquet for a Cure, it’s Croquet for a Community!” The Seoanes are quick to credit their donors and sponsors, who have played a pivotal role in the event’s growth. “We’ve had so much support, and the sponsors have been incredible,” Meg says. “This year, our goal is to hit the six-figure mark in donations. We’re already seeing exponential growth in the community’s support.” As they look to the future, Meg and Steve have even bigger dreams. Small steps to a big future And it’s not just about raising funds — it’s about inspiring others to join the fight. Croquet for a Cure is raising awareness about Alzheimer’s, a disease that affects millions of families each year. In collaboration with the medical staff at HonorHealth, Meg and Steve’s vision for the future includes a multidisciplinary Alzheimer’s clinic at the Bob Bové Neuroscience Institute located on the campus of HonorHealth Scottsdale Osborn Medical Center. A clinic that will bring comprehensive, holistic care, cutting-edge research and patient-centered treatments to the forefront right here in Scottsdale. “Patients and their families are lost after a diagnosis. They need a safe space where they feel supported holistically — not just for the patient, but for the family navigating this overwhelming journey,” states HonorHealth neurologist, Marisa Sosinsky, MD. “That’s the greatest service a clinic like this can provide.” As they continue their journey, Meg and Steve’s impact on the community is undeniable. They’ve turned their personal grief into something beautiful, providing a platform for others to come together, raise funds and support those affected by Alzheimer’s. As Meg says, “It’s about hope, it’s about education and it’s about making a difference. And I truly believe we’re just getting started.” So, whether you’re playing a friendly game of croquet or donating to support the cause, Croquet for a Cure is a reminder that together, we can fight this devastating disease and change lives for the better. With Meg and Steve leading the way, the future looks brighter — and the game to eradicate dementia, it seems, is just beginning. This story originally appeared in the Summer 2025 issue of Reflections of Honor. The next Croquet for a Cure event will take place on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
Advancing healthcare through academic medicine Arizona State University’s newly named John Shufeldt School of Medicine and Medical Engineering — for which HonorHealth is the primary clinical affiliate — has received preliminary accreditation from the Liaison Committee on Medical Education, paving the way for its inaugural class in fall 2026. The school’s new name honors local physician and entrepreneur John Shufeldt, MD, and is in recognition of his historic nine-figure gift to ASU. As the school’s primary clinical affiliate, HonorHealth and its Academic Medicine program is uniquely positioned to offer patient-centered learning experiences while leveraging the academic environment to further elevate care for patients across our community. Learn more about HonorHealth Academic Medicine
 Help every family share a Thanksgiving meal Thanksgiving should be a time to celebrate, not to worry about having enough to eat. But this year, the need at the HonorHealth Desert Mission Food Bank has grown by more than 50 percent. Thankfully, you can help make sure no family is turned away this Thanksgiving. When you give to the HonorHealth Desert Mission Food Bank Turkey Drive, your gift will be matched, doubling your impact for families facing hunger. 🍂 $25 becomes $50 to feed two families Healthy food isn’t a luxury—it’s essential. Your kindness can help every family enjoy a full table and a warm meal this Thanksgiving. UPDATE: Donations to HonorHealth Desert Mission and the Turkey Drive are eligible for the Arizona Qualified Charitable Organization Tax Credit. Through this program, you can donate up to $987 (if you file your taxes jointly) or up to $495 (if you file your taxes individually) and receive your gift back as a dollar-for-dollar credit on your Arizona state taxes! |
Their journey began with a simple vision — honoring Meg’s mother’s love of throwing parties and their childhood fun playing croquet. The Seoane family likes to joke that Hermanda could make water taste like champagne.
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Get 15 percent off music festival tickets! Dreamy Draw Music Festival takes over Old Town Scottsdale on November 7 and 8 with two days of live music, immersive art, food and craft vendors, and more. Catch performances by The Lumineers, Vampire Weekend, Thee Sacred Souls, Father John Misty, Marcus King and many more. As a friend of HonorHealth and HonorHealth Foundation, you can save 15 percent on your ticket purchase with code HONOR15. Get your discounted tickets today!
Go “all in” for a great cause The PENTA Cares Arizona Poker Tournament supports HonorHealth Foundation and benefits HonorHealth Sports Medicine, bringing hope, healing and health to those who need it most. The tournament is Thursday, December 4 at The Scottsdale Resort. You can sign up to play, attend as a guest, become a sponsor or simply make a donation.
Save the date for the 2026 Honor Ball Registration is now open for the 2026 Honor Ball! Join us Saturday, February 28, for a magnificent black-tie affair at the luxurious Arizona Biltmore Resort. The 49th annual Honor Ball will be an evening inspired by The Great Gatsby and benefiting the HonorHealth Innovation Endowment — providing vital support to enhance quality of care while driving progress at the forefront of medical advancement. Learn more about this highly anticipated signature event
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