UVM Medical Center caregivers and staff deliver expert, compassionate care for the whole patient—body, mind and spirit.
For patients, this dedication can make a lasting impression and change the trajectory of their health care journey. Many are so moved that they look for tangible ways to express their thanks and give back.
Founded in 2017, the Health Care Hero Program provides an avenue for grateful patients, families, friends—anyone—to recognize exceptional care when making a donation. Whether honoring an individual, a team or an entire unit, these gifts demonstrate appreciation for care that went above and beyond as well as an understanding of the impact of philanthropy on patients, people, work and the community's collective future.
"I am grateful for the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others and being honored as a Health Care Hero is a humbling and motivating acknowledgement of the impact and influence we can have in our community. It is a validation of the effort, empathy and commitment I strive to bring to my role each day, and that I have the privilege of witnessing in the work of my colleagues.”
– Rebecca Reynolds, Lead Exercise Trainer, Rehab Therapies Community Exercise Programs, UVM Medical Center
"I cannot fully describe how much I appreciate being recognized as a Health Care Hero. I strive to deliver the best possible care to my patients, and I am humbled to learn they expressed their gratitude by donating on my behalf. I am thankful to make a difference in my patients’ lives and want to express my heartfelt appreciation for their support, which will help us continue our mission.”
— Diego Adrianzen Herrera, MD, Hematology and Oncology, UVM Cancer Center; Early Career Green and Gold Professor of Medicine and assistant professor of medicine, Division of Hematology and Oncology, UVM Robert Larner, MD College of Medicine
"Every time I meet a patient, I want them to feel more informed and in control of their situation. Getting to know them a bit as a person before we talk about their disease goes a long way. I am grateful that some of my patients have chosen to use Health Care Heroes to acknowledge that I did make a connection that was meaningful to them.”
— James Wallace, MD, Radiation Oncology, UVM Medical Center; associate professor of oncology, Larner College of Medicine
"I am always so deeply moved and grateful when a patient makes a donation in my honor. It is a testament to our entire team and the kind of care we are proud to provide our cancer patients.”
— Michelle Sowden, DO, program director, Surgical Oncology, UVM Medical Center; Green and Gold Professor of Surgical Oncology and associate professor, Division of Surgical Oncology, Larner College of Medicine
To honor a Health Care Hero yourself, contact Ginger Lubkowitz at Ginger.Lubkowitz@uvmhealth.org or make a gift online today.
Donors Thank Cancer Caregivers through UVMMC Health Care Hero Program
Cheryl Carmi
Apr 15, 2025