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How a Decorated Marine Continues His Military Service in an Unlikely Way

Jan 7, 2025 | Donor Profile, Featured

Renee and Bob Parsons

Upon his return from the Vietnam War, Bob Parsons battled post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) for decades—and while doing so, grew a small software business operating out of his basement into the powerhouse internet domain registrar and web hosting company GoDaddy. From humble beginnings to becoming an entrepreneurial billionaire, nothing came easy for Bob. He talks openly about his mental health struggles following the war, and how, by 2018, just a mention of the war could trigger him to cry. Time was not healing his wounds. As Bob recalls, “I couldn’t handle it. The longer time went on, the worse it got for me.” Around this time, he read the New York Times best-selling book How to Change Your Mind by Michael Pollan and a glimmer of hope appeared for him. Bob developed an interest in the scientific use of psychedelics to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions.

“My own battle with PTSD lasted for decades,” says Bob, United States Marine Corps Vietnam War veteran and co-founder of The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation. “It was psychedelic-assisted therapy that finally brought me home after all those years, and even with the FDA’s recent decision, we’re digging in and funding more research because I have all the evidence I need—I know it works.”

Bob is referring to the 2024 decision by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to withhold approval for MDMA-assisted psychotherapy. While it would not be surprising if donors shied away from supporting this nascent scientific field, Bob and his wife Renee, who helped establish Mount Sinai’s psychedelic psychotherapy research center in 2021, recently made a second foundational gift of $5 million.

“We are hopeful that the innovative research and training being done at Mount Sinai will go on to transform the lives of veterans and others who endure debilitating mental health conditions,” says Renee. “Bob and I know firsthand the detrimental impacts of PTSD—not only on the individual but on the entire family. We remain committed to battling the stigma surrounding mental health and shining a light on such promising treatments.”

Bob and Renee have focused some of that light here at Mount Sinai. Under the direction of internationally acclaimed researcher Rachel Yehuda, PhD, the Center has expanded and moved to a new location, increasing capacity for therapy, research, and therapist training, with a primary focus on veterans. It is now being renamed The Parsons Research Center for Psychedelic Healing to acknowledge the couple’s deep commitment to improving the lives of veterans and others struggling with PTSD.

The Parsons Center

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, more than 17 veterans die by suicide each day on average. “New treatment options are desperately needed for the millions of people, both civilians and veterans, who have mood and anxiety disorders such as PTSD and major depression,” says Dennis S. Charney, MD, Anne and Joel Ehrenkranz Dean, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and President for Academic Affairs, Mount Sinai Health System.

Adds Dr. Yehuda: “This is an existential moment for the field of psychedelic research in mental health, and The Bob & Renee Parsons Foundation is shining a light on a path forward. With their vision and commitment, and the continued generosity of our donors, we will meet the needs of the moment.”

Renee and Bob celebrating the publication of “Fire in the Hole!”

In his recently published memoir, Fire in the Hole! Bob shares how he turned his hardships into motivation, from his mother’s mental illness to his harrowing yet transformative experience in Vietnam. A poignant and humorous storyteller, Bob reminds us that true wealth is not solely measured in financial terms but in the kindness and generosity we share with others. He discusses his healing process and his decision to donate funds aimed at impacting PTSD. For Bob and other veterans, sharing their stories is a continuation of their military service, fulfilling the promise of the soldier’s creed: I will never leave a fallen comrade.

His journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit and the importance of giving back.

Learn More about the Parsons Center

A Night of Inspiration: The Dubin Breast Center Annual Benefit Honors Jill Martin

Updated on Jan 23, 2025 | Events, Featured

On December 9th, the Dubin Breast Center of the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai hosted its annual benefit at the Ziegfeld Ballroom in Manhattan, celebrating the extraordinary patients, physicians, staff, caregivers, and supporters who have contributed to the Center’s success since its founding 14 years ago. Jill Martin, NBC’s TODAY lifestyle contributor, was honored for her advocacy in breast cancer awareness, testing, and wellness.

Since her diagnosis in 2023, Jill has used her broadcasting and social media platforms to share the story of her breast cancer journey, displaying strength and resilience through numerous surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy treatments. As she has done so, millions of Americans have learned about BRCA and other genetic testing and how knowing one’s cancer risk can help lead to life-saving prevention and early detection. As Jill shared, “With my platform, I felt I had a responsibility to not only raise awareness but also to acknowledge other people going through something similar who may not have the ability to share in the way that I can.” That selflessness and vulnerability inspired both her television audience and her health care team at the Dubin Breast Center.

“Jill is an entrepreneur and a multi-Emmy Award-winning television broadcaster—an amazing woman as you have seen,” said Elisa Port, MD, FACS, Chief of Breast Surgery for the Health System, Director of the Dubin Breast Center, and Jill’s physician. “Her courage and passion were inspiring to watch. Jill exemplifies the idea that the airwaves should serve the public trust. Through her resolute insistence on sharing her journey, advocating for genetic testing, and maintaining an inspiring attitude, Jill fulfilled her highest calling both to herself and her profession.”

Perri Peltz, the Emmy Award-winning journalist and filmmaker served as master of ceremonies for the evening, and the event included performances from country singer Will Moseley, and Broadway actor, singer, dancer, and choreographer Jared Grimes, and featured a special performance by Grammy- and Academy Award-winner, Ms. Lisa Fischer, accompanied by Michael Mitchell and Friends.

Some notable guests included tennis great Mary Joe Fernández, Academy Award-nominated producer and film director Shawn Levy, SoulCycle founding senior master instructor Stacey Griffith, and fashion models Molly Simms and Karlie Kloss. Seven patients who shared their breast cancer experiences in a video capturing their remarkable stories were also in attendance.

Dr. Port and Center Co-founder and Mount Sinai Health System Trustee Eva Andersson-Dubin, MD, received a standing ovation before expressing their gratitude to the event’s Co-Chairs, Benefit Committee, and Advisory Board for their dedicated efforts in supporting the Dubin Breast Center’s mission.

“Building a top-tier cancer center within a full-service hospital, equipped to address all the medical needs of a patient, was a novel idea,” Dr. Dubin said. “We wanted to build a cutting-edge breast cancer treatment facility within a caring, nurturing environment—and most importantly, open it to all regardless of ability to pay. The idea was new and now it has succeeded beyond our dreams.”

Jill says of her time at the Center, “I felt like it was home for me. I still feel like that. I feel like everyone, from the doctors to the nurses, to the front desk, it was like a club that you never wanted to be a part of, but when you went to it you were just regarded with such love. When I picture my time here at Dubin, I just picture safety. I mean, they saved my life. So if you have to go through something like this, having Dubin as your anchor is incomparable.”

Mount Sinai Health System Chief Executive Officer, Brendan G. Carr, MD, MA, MS, also addressed the audience. “Breast cancer is personal for me, as it is for many in this room. It has impacted many members of my family and has taken several from us far too early,” said Dr. Carr, Professor and Kenneth L. Davis Distinguished Chair. “I’m proud to recognize Dr. Dubin and Dr. Port for their leadership and vision in the creation and the growth of the Dubin Breast Center over the last 14 years. Thank you to the donors and supporters for helping make our center a trailblazer in breast cancer care.”

The 2024 gala raised a record $3.8 million.

 


Breast cancer remains the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women, affecting one in eight over a lifetime. The Dubin Breast Center stands as a symbol of progress, providing world-class care to all patients while advancing early detection and treatment innovations. Since its founding 14 years ago, the Center has become an internationally renowned beacon of hope and innovation in breast cancer care. The Center is on track to surpass 400,000 patient visits by 2025, encompassing imaging, surgery, and treatment services. Early detection efforts and the survivorship program continue to deliver better outcomes for patients, embodying the Center’s commitment to comprehensive, compassionate care.

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Small Acts, Big Impact: Supporting the Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital

Updated on Jan 23, 2025 | Donor Profile, Featured

In 2023, something special unfolded as Mount Sinai Health System Trustee Nathan Hoffman joined forces with the Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital to launch a holiday fundraising campaign. More than 100 fashion apparel stores owned by Hoffman’s company, MadRag, invited customers nationwide to contribute at the register.

With gifts ranging from just a penny to an astonishing $1,000, 85,000 customers came together to support the Hospital, raising a total of $47,600. With an average gift of $0.56, it was a testament to the power of community and the profound impact of small acts of kindness.

A Trustee since 2022, Mr. Hoffman spoke warmly about the initiative, stating, “It is truly an honor to share the opportunity to give back to our renowned Kravis Children’s Hospital with our customers across the country. Witnessing their generosity firsthand during my visits to our MadRag stores is incredibly heartwarming.”

Now in its second year, this campaign serves as a powerful reminder that every contribution, no matter how small, can create significant change. It reflects not only a commitment to health but also the strong bond between Mount Sinai and the communities we serve, fostering hope and healing for children in need.

Learn More About Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital
Donate Now to Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital

Steve Miller Band Plays Benefit Concert for the Kyabirwa Surgical Center in Uganda

Updated on Jan 23, 2025 | Events, Featured

On November 5th, 2024, the Steve Miller Band performed a benefit concert for Mount Sinai’s Kyabirwa Surgical Center in Uganda, thrilling a crowd of more than 200 people at Jazz at Lincoln Center. Many members of The Ruth J. and Maxwell Hauser and Harriet and Arthur H. Aufses Jr., MD, Department of Surgery Advisory Board at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai were on hand for the show, which raised $3.2 million.
The event spoke to the compelling story of the Kyabirwa Center, which opened five years ago in response to the fact that as many as five billion people worldwide lack access to basic surgical care. The Center’s mission is to bring advanced outpatient surgical therapy to an underserved community in rural Uganda.

“Kyabirwa is a story of giving hope to the most vulnerable people in our communities here in eastern Uganda,” said the Center’s Director, Anna Turumanya Kalumuna, MBA. “The people living in Kyabirwa right now can testify to the fact that they no longer have to sell off their property to get basic surgical care.”

The Center is now thriving. Since its launch, approximately 6,370 procedures have been performed there, and some patients travel from as far as 12 hours away to receive safe, quality, effective treatment—regardless of their ability to pay. The Center is also expanding its efforts to allow for more surgery-related services, fostering research and community education, and enhancing its ability to provide laparoscopic procedures, cancer screenings, pathology services, and so much more. And this all takes place in a facility designed to maximize energy efficiency and environmental sustainability.

“When we began this program five years ago, everyone—including me—was unsure as to whether or not we’d be successful here,” said Michael L. Marin, MD, Dr. Julius H. Jacobson II Chair in Vascular Surgery, Chairman of the Maxwell-Aufses Department of Surgery at Icahn Mount Sinai, and Surgeon-in-Chief for the Mount Sinai Health System. “Five years later, having seen so many pieces of it come together is a source of great pride for me and many of the others who are so important in making it successful.”

In 2023, the Center established a Women’s Health Clinic that has already provided much-needed gynecologic services to nearly 400 women, including 50 surgical procedures. The gynecology department is breaking down barriers and creating a genuine sanctuary for women to receive comprehensive and compassionate health care by offering a wide range of services, including a burgeoning wellness program.

Telesurgery technology is a key feature of the Kyabirwa Center. This cutting-edge technique allows surgeons at the Center to benefit from the experience and expertise of surgeons at Mount Sinai in real-time, a collaboration that helps with complex cases, improves patient outcomes, enhances research initiatives, and provides educational opportunities for surgeons in East Africa.

“Digital technologies, video communication in the operating room—the ability to do that in a dynamic fashion has been a game-changer,” said Dr. Marin. The Center is also now home to a state-of-the-art simulation center and is expanding its footprint to enhance its ability to provide additional services to even more patients.

Philanthropic support is crucial to the Kyabirwa Surgical Center’s ability to provide care to a remote community who would otherwise have no options. The dedication of the Center’s supporters sustains its mission and provides it with the resources needed to strengthen its outreach efforts, bring additional relief to more people, and serve as a model for bringing greater access to quality affordable health care throughout the world.

“This is something the world really needs,” said Miller, who, along with his wife Janice, is a Mount Sinai Department of Surgery Advisory Board member and a generous supporter of the Kyabirwa Center. “You very rarely run into that kind of an idea. Just immediately, we wanted to do anything we could do to help.”

Learn More About the Kyabirwa Surgical Center

A Celebration of Community and Compassion at Mount Sinai’s Annual Children’s Center Foundation Benefit

Nov 10, 2024 | Events, Featured

On November 10, 2024, Mount Sinai hosted its 37th Annual Children’s Center Foundation (CCF) Benefit with a performance of the Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center. Gathered beneath the big top, the event brought together faculty, staff, families, and supporters to celebrate their shared commitment to pediatric health care.

This year’s fundraiser exceeded expectations, raising over $1 million to support Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Hospital and the Jack and Lucy Clark Department of Pediatrics. The funds will help renovate hospital facilities, enhance therapeutic programs for hospitalized children, and advance pediatric research.

The event honored the Food Allergy Treatment and Research Center at the Elliot and Roslyn Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, which has transformed the lives of thousands of children with food allergies since its founding in 2016. The 2024 CCF Annual Benefit Co-Chairs Madi Rothenberg Karpova and Ivan Karpov shared, “With our daughter CoCo as a patient, the Center’s compassionate and family-centered approach has been an invaluable source of support for our family.”

The evening also celebrated the exceptional surgeons at Kravis Children’s Hospital, whose expertise, precision, and unwavering dedication improves the health of the hospital’s most vulnerable patients. From performing intricate, life-saving procedures to offering emotional support to families in their darkest hours, these surgeons embody the highest standards of medical care and compassion. Their innovation and excellence continues to drive Mount Sinai’s reputation as a leader in pediatric surgery, inspiring hope for countless families.

A Place Designed to Help Women Be Healthy: Carolyn Rowan

Nov 1, 2024 | Donor Profile, Featured

Carolyn Rowan focused her attention on women’s health when she realized she could help future generations of women to experience a lifetime of well-being in mind and body. Thus the vision for the Rowan Women’s Health Center at Mount Sinai emerged, with plans to open in 2025 on the northwest corner of 99th Street and Madison Avenue in the heart of the Upper East Side. The Rowan Center will elevate women’s health care to a level of luxury by bringing together women’s health services at a single location—a design element Rowan believes is central to ensuring women receive care and attention of the highest quality.

“Imagine a wellness center for women where you know you’re getting the best care, where all of the best doctors are focused on you and every interaction comes from a place of caring,” says Rowan, who recently made a transformational gift to establish the Rowan Center. “I was born at Mount Sinai, my children were born at Mount Sinai, and I feel so fortunate to be able to do this with them.”

Rowan joined Mount Sinai’s Board of Trustees in 2023, crediting the decision to her lifelong fascination with health care, medicine, and wellness. That passion shows in her motivation to educate women from a young age on how to optimally care for their bodies. A philosophy of prevention will be primary to the Rowan Center and made possible in part through research, one of the foundational pillars on which Mount Sinai stands. The Blavatnik Family Women’s Health Research Institute and the newly established Women’s Biomedical Research Institute conduct basic and translational research specific to the biology of women’s health across the lifespan, and each will directly inform care at the Rowan Center.

Rowan envisions a colocation of providers who are at the top of their practice in every area of women’s health, making the Rowan Center a premier destination for the women of New York City. Not only will the convenience of accessing multiple services at the same hospital lower barriers to care, but such proximity will naturally empower provider collaboration, improving health outcomes while giving every patient certainty that care is centered on them. A range of women’s health services will be available at the 99th and Madison location, and the Rowan Center will anchor additional women’s health services provided across the Mount Sinai Health System, working intimately with the Raquel and Jaime Gilinski Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science at Mount Sinai to deliver the highest level of patient-centered care.

Moreover, Rowan is enthusiastic about an infusion of integrative medicine that will give patients access to services that are typically spread across disparate offices, if available at all. By bridging practices with roots in Western as well as Eastern systems, from precision diagnostic testing, bone density testing, and pelvic floor physical therapy to acupuncture, massage, and use of medicinal herbs, the Rowan Center will expand the range of care options such that care can be personalized to an individual patient at any stage of life.

The Rowan Center will offer specialized menopause services attuned to the needs of those in midlife, with experts proactively providing care that keeps a woman feeling her best in the years before, during, and after menopause. Menopause “is not a sexy subject,” Rowan acknowledges, and so “it has been a largely dark conversation that’s recently come to light. Mount Sinai can be the foremost in that space.”

Tying it all together will be a team of dedicated patient navigators, who will be available to help patients schedule appointments as well as manage coordination of care for those following more complex treatment plans.

Rowan hopes that her gift to establish the Rowan Center will give women “something that’s just for them,” a place where they will be heard, treated compassionately, and receive recommendations specific to the female body, whether for screenings, self-care, or exercise. Most of all, she hopes to give women peace of mind, knowing they are in a place designed to help them be healthy.

“It’s great to have something you envision come to life…and I’m only one small piece. Caring faculty and staff will be the superstars who make this happen.”

 –Carolyn Rowan