“This Center, and indeed Memorial’s whole cardiology program, exist because people like Evert and Norma Person believe in our mission,” said John Reed, M.D. “This team of cardiologists takes that faith very seriously, and I am truly humbled and proud to have my name on this Center.”

The new Center will bring together clinicians, researchers and educators under one roof, creating a collaborative environment that fosters breakthrough discoveries and provides patients with access to the most advanced cardiac care.

Norma’s generosity continues the philanthropic legacy she and Evert established through their foundational support of the Norma and Evert Person Heart and Vascular Institute, bringing their lifetime giving to Memorial Hospital to $20 million. This latest gift demonstrates their unwavering commitment to ensuring the highest quality health care remains accessible in Sonoma County.

“Norma and Evert’s extraordinary giving exemplifies the spirit of community that makes the mission of Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital possible,” said Rebecca Kendall, chief philanthropy officer. “We continue to be blessed by their devotion to this healing ministry to all in need of care. As we celebrate our 75th year, this gift is a perfect example of what can happen when the community, physicians and the team at Memorial come together to do extraordinary things.”

The Dr. John B. Reed Center for Cardiology will address the significant demand for cardiovascular care in Sonoma County. With the number of people over age 65 projected to grow 25% in the next five years, the need for expanded cardiac services continues to grow.

“It is a well-established fact that philanthropy makes the difference between a good hospital and a great hospital. I’m so grateful to the Person family and to the physicians who have inspired them,” said Scott Ciesielski, chief administrative officer for Providence Sonoma County.

“Every patient deserves the highest quality care, regardless of their circumstances,” said Pamela Maur, M.D., medical director for cardiology for Northern California. “This center will help ensure that excellence in cardiac care is available to everyone in our community.”

The facility will help continue to attract top-tier cardiovascular specialists to Sonoma County, creating a multiplying effect that will benefit the entire region, virtually eliminating the need for patients to travel outside the area for advanced heart care.

“Dr. Reed represents the very best of our physician community, comprised of dedicated healers who inspire extraordinary generosity through their compassionate care. This gift is a vote of confidence in all our physicians and a beautiful example of what ‘Caring Together’ looks like,” said Garry Olney, chief executive officer for Providence Northern California.