RENOWN NEWSROOM

Freenome, a privately held biotech company announced today that Renown Health has joined as a partner for the Sanderson Study, Freenome’s study of its multiomics platform, in combination with real-world data to detect multiple cancers. The study encompasses both traditional and real-world data to generate evidence of clinical validation for certain high- and elevated-risk populations while also refining the platform’s cancer classification and risk prediction models. In addition, the Sanderson Study will build the necessary infrastructure to bridge the gap between clinical research and day-to-day clinical impact. Freenome uses a multiomics platform that combines tumor and non-tumor signals with machine learning to detect cancer in its earliest stages using a standard blood draw. “We are delighted to partner with Freenome to launch this far-reaching trial which has transformative potential,” said Lee Schwartzberg, MD, medical oncology section chief and the principal investigator for the Sanderson Study at Renown. “Studying the impact of merging real-world information from patients with multiomics technology holds the promise of a truly personalized approach to early detection of cancer.” Renown Health has multiple clinical trials currently available to patients in northern Nevada across a variety of specialties, including oncology, cardiology, neurology, pediatrics, and pulmonology. Cancer is the second-leading cause of death in the Silver State, claiming the lives of more than 5,400 Nevadans each year. This number has increased since the last five-year plan estimates of 4,400 deaths per year.1 Promoting research to improve cancer prevention, detection, diagnosis and treatment is a key goal outlined in the Nevada Cancer Plan, 2021-2025, a framework developed by the Nevada Cancer Coalition in partnership with the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services. Access and participation in clinical trials is a key component of the plan, which, Renown says, makes participation in the Sanderson Study even more significant. “At the inception of the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, we committed to not only provide the very best care possible to our community, but to also help improve outcomes through participation in research,” said Max Coppes, MD, PhD, MBA, cancer center director of the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute. “The research collaboration with Freenome has the potential to make a dream come true: Finding cancer early when it’s most treatable.” The Sanderson Study will enroll approximately 8,000 patients through Freenome’s clinical study partner network and numerous regional health systems across the United States. “Renown is committed to making a difference in the health and well-being of patients in communities across the state of Nevada, and that includes access to innovative research,” said Lance Baldo, MD, chief medical officer at Freenome. “The combination of real-world data and multiomics is poised to transform the landscape of early cancer detection.” Freenome’s clinical studies are named for employees’ loved ones who fought cancer. This study honors Tim Sanderson, the loving father of a Freenome engineer. For residents of Nevada interested in participating in the Sanderson Study, contact the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute clinical research coordinators at renown-crd@renown.org. Click here for more information on the Sanderson Study. About Freenome Freenome is a biotechnology company with a comprehensive multiomics platform for the early detection of cancer using a standard blood draw. The company combines its deep expertise in molecular biology with advanced computational biology and machine learning to detect disease-associated patterns among billions of circulating cell-free biomarkers. Freenome is headquartered in South San Francisco, California. About Renown Health’s William N. Pennington Cancer Institute The William N. Pennington Cancer Research Institute provides comprehensive multidisciplinary cancer care for the northern Nevada community, helps educate the next generation of healthcare providers, and works to improve treatments and outcomes through active participation in research. About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health.

Read More About Freenome Adds Renown Health As Partner for The Sanderson Study

Renown Children’s Hospital and Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) are excited to announce Shaylie Edwards as the 2023 Champion Child. A fighter from a young age, seven-year-old Shaylie has overcome many challenges in her short life. In 2019 when she was three, Shaylie was hit by a car while using a crosswalk with her father. She was admitted to the Wilbur D. May Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU) at Renown Children’s Hospital and stayed there for three months. A video introducing Shaylie and her journey can be found here.  Shaylie’s mom, Erica Edwards reports that as a result of the accident, Shaylie has been treated by Renown Children’s Hospital physicians, nurses and team for a broken neck in two places, a broken jaw in two places, a fractured sacrum, a broken femur and three small brain bleeds. She has been in outpatient therapy for the last three years and continues making strides daily. “Shaylie’s perseverance, dedication and joy inspires all of us at Renown Children’s Hospital,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital and Chair of Pediatrics, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine,” (pictured right with Shaylie). “It has been an incredible joy to witness her progress and to care for Shaylie and her family. We are thrilled she has been chosen to share her story with the world.”  The New England Journal of Medicine cites preventable injuries as the number one leading cause of death among children. This includes motor vehicle accidents, firearm injuries, drowning, poisoning, burns and suffocation. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, an average of 155 children under the age of 10 die every year as a result of pedestrian injury, with 64% of those involving motor vehicles. Across the U.S., due to distracted driving, a pedestrian is killed every two hours and injured every seven minutes. Most drivers feel they can safely take their eyes off the road for 0-2 seconds, but a car can travel the length of a football field in 5 seconds at 55 MPH. Shaylie’s family and the team at Renown Children’s Hospital urge drivers to be fully aware and eliminate distractions while driving.  “We were in the Wilbur D. May PICU for three months and the first five days were very iffy. We did not know if she would come out of her coma, but Shaylie is a fighter. The care team at Renown Children’s Hospital made me feel at home and like we were all going through this together,” said Shaylie’s mother, Erica Edwards. “Shaylie’s recovery was a collaboration between doctors, nurses, and our family. Together we were there to support Shaylie, who has proven to us repeatedly that she has a greater purpose in life.” “It was heartwarming to meet Shaylie and her family,” said Dr. Brian Erling, MBA, CEO of Renown Health. “Shaylie is truly a champion! She and her family have faced life's unanticipated events with strength and resilience. Despite the struggles, they have carried on with hope and determination. They find joy in life every day and inspire us all. We have much to learn from their example.” Through Renown Children’s Hospital, Shaylie and 100,000 area children now have access to more than 60 pediatricians, including those specializing in adolescent medicine; anesthesia; cardiology; craniofacial surgery; dentistry; ear, nose and throat conditions; emergency medicine; endocrinology; gastroenterology;  general pediatrics; hospitalist medicine; intensive care; neonatology; neurology; oncology; ophthalmology;  orthopedics; psychiatry; psychology; pulmonology; surgery; urology and other subspecialties previously lacking in the community, as well as a pediatric emergency room, pediatric ICU and contemporary healthcare services at Renown Children’s Hospital. Prior to 2016, about 30% of all pediatric patients had to leave northern Nevada to receive the specialty care they needed. Now, thanks to donor support, Renown estimates that 97% of all pediatric patients and their families can receive both general and specialty pediatric care locally. The next nearest children’s hospital in the state is 7 hours or 438 miles away in Las Vegas. Renown Children’s Hospital is proud to be the only CMNH hospital in northern Nevada, one of only 170 premier children’s hospitals in North America. Shaylie will serve as Renown Children’s Hospital’s CMNH Champion Child for the next year, shining as the face of the hospital in the community and sharing her inspiring story. Renown Health Foundation oversees the local CMNH programs and its fundraising. One hundred percent of all funds raised by CMNH partners stay local to support children and families in our community. Your generous support affords much-needed items to help our littlest patients cope with the potential stressors associated with hospitalization and illness. To donate, visit www.renown.org/donate. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is hiring people like you. Visit us at www.renown.org/careers.  About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment, and charitable care. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $7 billion, most of it $1 at a time through the charity's Miracle Balloon icon. Its various fundraising partners and programs support the nonprofit's mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Find out why children's hospitals need community support, and learn about your member hospital, at www.renown.org/CMNH.

Read More About Renown Children's Hospital Announces 2023 Children's Miracle Network Champion Child

Recognized as one of the world’s leading breast cancer experts as a 2023 Legends in Cancer Honoree Dr. Lee Schwartzberg, FACP, Section Chief of Medical Oncology at the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown, was honored as the 2023 Legends in Cancer honoree at this year's Best of Breast conference for his contributions to the field of breast cancer. The conference took place on Jan. 21 and 22. Breast cancer is a leading cause of cancer death among women in the United States. According to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in 8 women will develop breast cancer and about 1 in 36 women will die from breast cancer. Breast cancer is associated with increased age, hereditary factors, obesity, and alcohol use. Since 1990, breast cancer death rates across the country, and here in Washoe County have declined progressively due to advancements in treatment, detection, and care. Each year in the United States, about 264,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women and about 2,400 in men. Here in Washoe County, more than 21 deaths per 100,000 females are due to breast cancer, a significant decrease since 2012 when 24 deaths per 100,000 females were reported. Dr. Schwartzberg was selected for this award based on his unique and vast contributions to advancing science and patient care, including his major research interests such as therapeutic approaches to breast cancer, targeted therapies, and supportive care. The selection committee evaluates each candidates’ body of work — including contributions to the field of breast cancer in clinical research, patient care, mentoring and community service — before deciding on an honoree. “Dr. Schwartzberg is deserving of this honor. As a national expert in the study and treatment of breast cancer, precision medicine and supportive care, Dr. Schwartzberg is transforming cancer care and improving the lives of all of us in northern Nevada. As the most preferred cancer program in the region, we are working with the support of donors like The William N. Pennington Foundation to recruit additional oncology specialists and cancer science researchers to become the first National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer care center in Nevada," said Dr. Brian Erling, MBA, CEO of Renown Health. “The incredible care that comes from the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute is possible because of nationally recognized oncologists like Dr. Schwartzberg.” “Dr. Schwartzberg completed fellowship training in medical oncology and hematology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York, where he also served as Chief Medical Resident and was a founding member of the institutional ethics committee,” add Paul J. Hauptman, MD, dean of the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine and chief academic officer for Renown Health. “We are proud that he serves as a professor of clinical medicine at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine. His research interests include supportive care, precision medicine and patient-reported outcomes in breast cancer and he has published over 300 peer-reviewed manuscripts, book chapters and monographs.” “It is an honor to work with Dr. Schwartzberg and his patients have the most incredible things to say about the care he provides.” said Dr. Max J Coppes, PhD, MBA, Director, William N. Pennington Cancer Institute, Renown Health. “He understands that his patients are going through one of the most challenging times in their lives. Dr. Schwartzberg brings decades of experience to our community, is a great listener, and treats everyone with compassion and dignity. We are so proud to have him at Renown.” The Best of Breast Conference is an innovative medical education program that gathers the world's leading breast cancer experts to discuss cases with high-risk characteristics, adjuvant and metastatic treatment advances, interdisciplinary care and survivorship and recurrence — all while incorporating data from the major oncologic annual meetings. Dr. Schwartzberg has been selected to chair Total Health’s spring oncology education retreat in Lake Tahoe on April 15 and 16. The event’s comprehensive agenda will allow attendees to engage with the latest research and strategies in cancer care while networking with colleagues from across the country in a peaceful setting. Additional conference information is available here. For women, breast exams using mammography after 40 years old is recommended. For those age 75 and older, a mammogram is recommended every year. Having regular mammograms can lower the risk of dying from breast cancer. Both 3-D digital mammography and whole breast ultrasounds are available at the Greenberg Breast Health Center at Renown and other locations across northern Nevada. The Affordable Care Act makes breast cancer screening and counseling free. All health plans must cover these benefits at no cost to you. Renown MyChart app users can self-schedule a mammogram appointment. To call to schedule, dial 775-982-8100. At the William N. Pennington Cancer Institute at Renown Health, patients receive innovative, personalized treatment to fight cancer while an experienced team provides the support and technology to maintain the highest quality of life. The Renown team’s clinical expertise and advanced treatment options blend evidence-based care with leading-edge research to improve cancer outcomes for every patient and family. For more information or a referral, visit renown.org/cancer. About Renown Health Renown Health is Nevada’s largest, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe, and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination, and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in a community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. About Total Health Total Health is a medical information company of planning experts who produce tailored content, courses, and conferences for oncology healthcare providers, virtual and in-person. Total Health believes knowledge is power. Its mission is to give oncology healthcare providers an educational experience that equips them with the latest strategies to improve clinical practice and treatment outcomes.

Read More About Dr. Lee Schwartzberg Honored With 2023 Legends in Cancer Award

Pictured left to right: Erin VanKirk, MSN, RN, Renown Health Director of Nursing Education; Mitch Krebs, Program Director at Helmsley Charitable Trust; Dr. Graf, Renown Health CEO; Greg Walaitis Renown Health Chief Development Officer. Renown Health will use the grant to build the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center to improve the health system’s training abilities The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust has granted $3.1 million to Renown Health for construction of a new simulation and innovation center that will greatly expand the health system’s ability to train healthcare providers throughout northern Nevada. The new center will be named the Helmsley Simulation and Innovation Center. Expected to open in April 2023, the center will feature three simulated patient rooms, classroom space, computer labs and a conference center, allowing trainers to run current and future healthcare professionals through real-life acute, outpatient, telemedicine and specialty care scenarios. The new center will let Renown Health train substantially more nurses, physicians, community clinical partners, medical students and rural providers while improving medical and nursing expertise to support staff throughout northern Nevada. “The Helmsley Charitable Trust is excited to fund this new simulation center, which will provide healthcare professionals across rural Nevada with state-of-the-art training in a variety of situations they’ll encounter,” said Walter Panzirer, a trustee of the Helmsley Charitable Trust. “The project fits with our goal to level the playing field by giving rural residents access to top-notch healthcare, regardless of their ZIP code.” “Simulation education has become standard practice for many of our healthcare personnel,” said Erin Van Kirk MSN, RN, Director of Nursing Education. “This lab will provide expanded opportunities in a controlled setting where physicians, nurses, and students can gain valuable experience in providing the best care possible.” Renown Health has outgrown its current simulation lab, which opened in 2016 in Renown Regional Medical Center. The new, larger, state-of-the-art simulation and innovation center will increase Renown Health’s training capacity from 1,500 to 2,500 each year. The new facility will be equipped with state-of-the-art simulation mannequins and other equipment that includes a telemetry monitor, IV and epidural equipment, a code cart, a defibrillator, a balloon pump, ventilators and a cooling machine. The center will also support Renown Health’s recently established partnership with the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, expanding training modules focused on rural health and virtual care through telemedicine. “The facility will help Renown Health respond to our region’s growing population by allowing us to support the training and competency necessary for our care providers to make a genuine difference in the health and well-being of the people and communities we serve,” said Melodie Osborn, RN, MBA, Chief Nursing Executive at Renown Health. “This generous grant for the new simulation and innovation center from the Helmsley Charitable Trust is truly an investment in the bright future we envision for Renown, our care teams and the community.” About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org. About the Helmsley Charitable Trust The Leona M. and Harry B. Helmsley Charitable Trust aspires to improve lives by supporting exceptional efforts in the U.S. and around the world in health and select place-based initiatives. Since beginning active grantmaking in 2008, Helmsley has committed more than $3 billion for a wide range of charitable purposes. Helmsley’s Rural Healthcare Program funds innovative projects that use information technologies to connect rural patients to emergency medical care, bring the latest medical therapies to patients in remote areas, and provide state-of-the-art training for rural hospitals and EMS personnel. To date, this program has awarded more than $500 million to organizations and initiatives in the states of North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, Minnesota, Iowa, Montana, and Nevada. For more information, visit helmsleytrust.org.

Read More About Helmsley Charitable Trust Grants $3.1 Million to Renown Health

Endowment funds generate annual income, ensuring support for years to come. Pictured above: Dr. Max Coppes, Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital and Nell J Redfield Chair of Pediatrics, UNR Med; Dr. Kristina Deeter, MBA, FAAP, Vice Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Associate Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children's Hospital; Becky Haase, RN, Director of Children’s Services at Renown Health; Emmalee Sutton, Renown Health's Children's Miracle Network Child Champion; Renown Health Foundation’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis; Dixie May, Vice President at the Wilbur May Foundation; Dr. Thomas Graf, CEO of Renown and Larry Duncan, VP, Administrator, Renown Children’s Hospital. The Wilbur May Foundation recently announced a $5 million gift to Renown Health Foundation. This gift marks the first major donation to support the newly formed Renown Children’s Hospital Endowment Fund.  Endowment funds are invested, and each year a portion of the fund’s income will be used as a steady stream of support for the Renown Children’s Hospital, while the rest of the return is re-invested to preserve and grow the original gift. As the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, Renown Children’s Hospital treats nearly 50,000 of our youngest community members every year, with a focus on keeping quality healthcare close to home. “Building a strong endowment is one of the most critical steps an organization, like Renown, can take to help see it through challenging times and periods of growth,” said Thomas Graf, MD, FAAFP, CEO of Renown. “An endowment is a permanent fund –— it is our key to continuously creating health. We will spend only the investment income we earn, this will allow us to have a dedicated stream of dollars to pay for the equipment and programs that we know our children need.” In honor of the Wilbur May Foundation’s extraordinary donation, the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit (PICU), currently under major renovation, will be named the Wilbur D. May NICU and PICU. These two major ICU units are moving from the Sierra Tower to the Tahoe Tower at Renown Regional Medical Center, home of Renown Children’s Hospital. “This endowment gives physicians and staff peace of mind knowing services and programs will continue to be readily available to families in our growing community,” said Kristina Deeter, MD, MBA, FAAP, Vice Chair, Department of Pediatrics, Associate Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children's Hospital. “The generosity of the Wilbur May Foundation will impact care at Renown Children’s Hospital for generations.” The late Wilbur D. May was a northern Nevada rancher, businessman, world traveler and philanthropist. He had a deep and longstanding concern for the welfare and education of children. The Wilbur May Foundation – comprised of family relatives, including his daughter, Dixie May – continues to enhance Wilbur’s vision. The foundation has made numerous gifts to Renown Children’s Hospital over the years, including supporting the current PICU and children’s kidney dialysis program, among others.  “It’s an honor to work with community leaders and donors like Dixie May and the Wilbur May Foundation, and it’s our hope this announcement will inspire others in the community to Join the Good Fight and support children and families in our community,” said Renown Health Foundation’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis.  To learn more about the Renown Children’s Hospital Endowment Fund, or to contribute, visit renown.org/give or call Renown Health Foundation at 775-982-5545. ### About Renown Health  For more information, visit Renown Health is the region’s largest locally owned and governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Clinical institutes include Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath and Neurosciences. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®.

Read More About Wilbur May Foundation Donates Five Million Dollars to New Renown Children's Hospital Endowment Fund

Stage 2 Air Quality Index and alarming research studies from DRI, Renown Health and the Washoe County Health District leads to public health advisory- seek care if needed For people who suffer from asthma, wildfire smoke is more hazardous than other types of air pollution, according to a study from the Desert Research Institute (DRI), the Renown Institute for Health Innovation (Renown IHI) and the Washoe County Health District (WCHD). The study published in the journal Environmental Health examined associations between airborne particulate matter (PM) from sources such as wildfire, transportation and industry, and medical visits for asthma at Renown Health’s emergency departments and urgent care centers in Reno, Nev. during the six-year period from 2013-2018. “In places like Reno, where wildfire events occur regularly during parts of the year and are expected to become more frequent in the future, an accurate understanding of the impacts of wildfire smoke on population health is critical,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, President & CEO of Renown Health. “We have an exceptional process in place through our urgent care sites, Renown Medical Group offices and hospital emergency departments to screen, diagnose and treat members of our community who come to us for care related to asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other upper respiratory diseases that may be exacerbated by wildfire smoke. At the same time, we continue to develop and refine, in real-time, the data that supports our predictive analytic models. We are using every tool and resource-including scientific data and clinical reporting, to ensure that we are meeting both the health and healthcare needs of the people we serve.” In the study, researchers found that air quality in the Reno area was affected by wildfire smoke on a total of 188 days during the study period. A total of 18,836 asthma-related emergency room and urgent care visits occurred over the same five-year period of time, indicating that the influences of wildfire smoke and other types of air pollution on this medical condition are important to understand. The Washoe County Health District – Air Quality Management Division (AQMD) has issued a Stage 2 Air Pollution Warning due to smoke from area wildfires. Air quality in the Reno-Sparks area is now “Very Unhealthy” with an Air Quality Index of 247. The Stage 2 warning means that all residents should stay indoors and reduce activity levels due to the susceptibility of increased health risks. To see current air quality in Reno-Sparks, click here. Brion Hill, MD who practices at the Renown Urgent Care - Los Altos location warns, “This is an important health advisory, exposure to elevated PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in smoke) concentrations can result in eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, coughing, impaired lung function and chest pain. Everyone should take precautions when the air quality is unhealthy. Air pollution can aggravate heart and cardiovascular disease as well as lung diseases like asthma and COPD. When the air quality is unhealthy, people with these conditions may experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or fatigue. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, use your inhalers as directed and contact your health care provider,” says Dr. Hill. “If you do not have a health care provider, we have 11 conveniently located Renown Urgent Care offices with providers ready to see you 7 days a week." Dr. Joseph Grzymski, a research professor at Desert Research Institute, a corresponding author on the study and Chief Scientific Officer, Renown Health, says, “This air is very bad for your health. Given today’s Air Quality Index in Reno, being outside and breathing this air for a day equals about smoking half a package of cigarettes.” Additional Information: The full text of the article “Particulate matter and emergency visits for asthma: a time-series study of their association in the presence and absence of wildfire smoke in Reno, Nevada, 2013–2018,” is available from Environmental Health: https://ehjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12940-020-00646-2 To learn more about the Renown Institute for Health Innovation, please visit: https://www.dri.edu/renown-ihi/ Renown Urgent Care provides treatment for a wide range of minor injuries, illnesses and medical concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening, that require same-day medical attention and avoid the long wait times and high prices of the emergency room at 13 convenient sites, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon and Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online. The Washoe County Health District offers online health information on its Be Smoke Smart website, including fire information, daily air quality information, fire and smoke maps and how to protect yourself.     About the Desert Research Institute The Desert Research Institute (DRI) is a recognized world leader in basic and applied interdisciplinary research. Committed to scientific excellence and integrity, DRI faculty, students, and staff have developed scientific knowledge and innovative technologies in research projects around the globe. Since 1959, DRI’s research has advanced scientific knowledge, supported Nevada’s diversifying economy, provided science-based educational opportunities, and informed policymakers, business leaders, and community members. With campuses in Reno and Las Vegas, DRI serves as the non-profit research arm of the Nevada System of Higher Education. For more information, visit www.dri.edu. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Wildfire Smoke More Dangerous Than Other Air Pollution for People With Asthma

Renown Urgent Care team prepares you to stay alert and safe this season and is available for medical assistance, 7 days a week at 11 locations across northern Nevada. In June, staffers at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention sent a Health Advisory requesting that clinicians and caregivers watch for the respiratory syncytial virus, usually known as RSV, an infection that puts thousands of toddlers and senior citizens in the hospital each year with pneumonia and deep lung inflammation. According to the CDC, RSV results in roughly 58,000 hospitalizations and 100 to 500 deaths each year among children under five as well as 177,000 hospitalizations and 14,000 deaths among adults 65 and above. RSV was cropping up in 13 southern and southeastern states, the agency warned, and clinicians should test for the virus if kids showed up sneezing, wheezing, or with poor appetites and inflamed throats. Usually a winter infection, RSV is usually gone by June. Instead, this year, it is spreading—and has since continued to spread across the country, and to northern Nevada. “We know that many of the good hygiene habits we developed to defend against COVID-19 disrupted the viral landscape over the past 16 months, suppressing infections from almost every pathogen. Now RSV’s out-of-season return tells us that we need to continue to be on the alert,” says Robert Thole, MD, a physician with Renown Urgent Care. “We are surprised to be seeing so many kids with RSV right now.” “We ask parents and caregivers to keep a watchful eye out for a respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. Symptoms are usually mild and resemble those of the common cold. RSV infection sometimes leads to bronchiolitis, pneumonia, or both. Symptoms of these complications include; difficulty breathing; wheezing; coughing that is getting worse; lethargy, increased tiredness, decreased interest in surroundings, or loss of interest in food,” explains Dr. Thole, who is board certified in family medicine. Catching and spreading the virus People with RSV infection may spread the virus through their secretions (saliva or mucus) when they cough, sneeze, or talk. You can catch the virus by: Touching an object or surface contaminated with the virus and then touching your nose, eyes, or mouth without first washing your hands. The virus can survive for more than 6 hours on countertops and other hard surfaces, such as doorknobs, and for 30 minutes on hands, clothing, or tissue. Close contact. If an infected person coughs or sneezes near you, you could breathe in RSV that is in his or her saliva or mucus. The virus spreads easily in crowded settings, such as childcare facilities, preschools, and nursing homes. Children attending school often spread the virus to their parents and siblings. The incubation period—the time from exposure to RSV until you have symptoms—ranges from two to 8 days but usually is 4 to 6 days. People are most likely to spread the virus within the first several days after symptoms of RSV infection begin and remain contagious for up to 8 days. Babies and young children may spread the virus for at least 3 to 4 weeks. Most children and adults feel better after a week or two. Treatment For an otherwise healthy child who has symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, such as a cough or runny nose, home treatment usually is all that is needed. It is important to watch for signs of complications, such as dehydration. Watchful waiting may not be a good choice when your child with an upper respiratory infection has an increased risk for complications. Watch your child closely if there are symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. If symptoms get worse or new symptoms develop, see a doctor right away. There is no vaccine and few specific treatments aside from supportive care, such as administering pain relievers and fluids. In the most severe cases, some children or adults might need additional oxygen. Not just in kids, older adults at risk Dr. Thole explains, “RSC is not only seen in children. Adults older than 65 have an increased risk of complications following infection with RSV. Pneumonia is a particular risk, especially if other health problems exist, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or heart failure. It may take older adults longer to recover from RSV infection and its complications than people in other age groups.” Call 911 or other emergency services immediately if: Your child has severe trouble breathing. Your child's breathing has stopped. Start rescue breathing. Call your doctor now if your baby or child has moderate trouble breathing. Call a doctor if your child: Breathes slightly faster than normal and seems to be getting worse. Most healthy children breathe less than 40 times a minute. Has cold symptoms that become severe. Has shallow coughing, which continues throughout the day and night. Has a poor appetite or is being less active than usual. Has any trouble breathing. Hospitalization Doctors sometimes give a monoclonal antibody treatment to high-risk babies throughout the respiratory season to prevent them from catching the virus or developing a severe infection. Some hospitals have started to increase use of the prophylaxis in response to the recent uptick in RSV cases. “Those kids were being protected,” said Kristina Deeter, MD who was quoted in a July 1st Wall St. Journal article on this topic. Dr. Deeter is a pediatric intensivist and medical director at Renown Children’s Hospital Pediatric Intensive Care and Hospitalist Medicine. Dr. Deeter, who also oversees Pediatrix Medical Group’s critical-care team in dozens of pediatric intensive care units across the country, said hospitals are also considering taking additional precautions in the neonatal intensive-care unit similar to some wintertime protocols. At Renown Children’s Hospital, there were no children hospitalized with RSV throughout the winter season, Dr. Deeter said, when there are normally hundreds of cases in our county- many of which do not need to be hospitalized.” A total of 31 cases have been reported in Washoe County, Nev., since April, and 26 of those occurred within the past three weeks. Preventing infection To prevent infection, or at least to mitigate them, wear masks, stay home when sick, and washing hands could make a difference in how the next viral season unfolds. For more information on RSV, visit renown.org. Renown Urgent Care Renown Urgent Care is available for medical assistance, 7 days a week at 11 locations across northern Nevada providing treatment for a wide range of minor injuries, illnesses and medical concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening. If you require same-day medical attention, you can avoid the long wait times and high prices of the emergency room at 13 convenient sites, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon and Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online. About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Got a Cough, Runny Nose, Sore Throat and Fever? It Might Be RSV Virus

Renown Urgent Care team prepares you to stay safe this season and is available seven days a week at 11 locations across northern Nevada Millions of people across the West live in areas where air pollution can cause serious health problems. Local air quality can affect our daily lives. Like the weather, it can change from day to day. The Northern Sierra Air Quality Management District issued an Air Quality Health Advisory for Plumas County, to notify the public of the possibility of poor air quality conditions resulting from the Beckwourth Complex Fire in addition to other wildfires in northern California. In addition, there is the potential for wind shifts to carry smoke to other parts of Plumas County from the Beckwourth and several other regional wildfires.  Air quality is expected to vary greatly depending on fire behavior and weather conditions, with smoke settling in low areas at night and in the early mornings as long as these fires are active. The advisory mentions, “Exposure to elevated PM2.5 (fine particulate matter in smoke) concentrations can result in eye and throat irritation, headaches, nausea, shortness of breath, congestion, coughing, impaired lung function and chest pain, especially among sensitive individuals such as the elderly, children, people with asthma, people with heart or lung conditions, pregnant women and anyone who is exercising or working hard outdoors.” Kouros Farro, MD, a physician with Renown Urgent Care advises that there are people who are more likely to be affected when fine particle pollution reaches an unhealthy level. People who have asthma or other breathing conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). People who have heart disease or high blood pressure. Children and older adults. People of all ages who are doing extended or heavy, physical activity like playing sports or working outdoors. “Everyone should take precautions when the air quality is unhealthy. Air pollution can aggravate heart and cardiovascular disease as well as lung diseases like asthma and COPD. When the air quality is unhealthy, people with these conditions may experience symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, or fatigue. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, use your inhalers as directed and contact your health care provider,” says Dr. Farro, who is board certified in family medicine and practices at Renown Urgent Care at 975 Ryland St in Reno. “If you do not have a health care provider, know we have a Renown Urgent Care office on almost every corner, with providers ready to see you.” Dr. Farro advises the following: Take it easy and listen to your body. Limit, change, or postpone your physical activity level. If possible, stay away from local sources of air pollution like busy roads and wood fires. If you have asthma or other breathing conditions like COPD make sure you have your relief/rescue inhaler with you. People with asthma should review and follow guidance in their written asthma action plan. Make an appointment to see your health provider to be sure you have an asthma action plan. “Even just one hour of smoke exposure can affect our lungs and hearts, and these consequences can reach people far beyond the direct area endangered by the fire. Children, older adults, pregnant women, people with preexisting cardiopulmonary disease, communities of color, economically disadvantaged communities, and people with preexisting chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, and obesity are all especially vulnerable to the air pollution that wildfires cause," says Dr. David Lemak, Division Chief of Urgent Care at Renown. Renown Urgent Care provides treatment for a wide range of minor injuries, illnesses and medical concerns that are urgent but not life-threatening, that require same-day medical attention and avoid the long wait times and high prices of the emergency room at 11 convenient sites, including Reno, Sparks, Carson City, USA Parkway, Fallon and Fernley. You can walk-in or book ahead online. You can get the latest fire and smoke information at the Washoe County Health District’s Be Smoke Smart webpage.  It includes information about air pollution levels and how to protect yourself from the smoke. An on-line subscription page allows you to sign up for EnviroFlash, notifying you about air quality.     About Renown Health Renown Health is a locally governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving northern Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. Renown is one of the region’s largest private employers with a workforce of more than 7,000. It comprises three acute care hospitals, a rehabilitation hospital, the area’s most comprehensive medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest and only locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown has a long tradition and commitment to continually improve the care and the health of our community. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Where There is Smoke; There May Be More Headaches, Nausea and Coughing

At a press conference this week, Renown Health Foundation announced its partnership with San Francisco 49ers legend and NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young and the Forever Young Foundation to build a Sophie’s Place at Renown Children’s Hospital. The music therapy room, set to break ground later this year, is specially designed for children and their loved ones to enjoy music and other interactive activities during their hospital stay.   A longtime Children's Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals celebrity ambassador, Young has helped raise over $1 billion to support children’s hospitals around the nation like Renown’s Children’s Hospital. His passion for giving back to pediatric patients, coupled with one remarkable friendship, led to the evolution of Sophie's Place.   Established in 2013 by the Forever Young Foundation, Sophie’s Place was created in loving memory of singer, songwriter and dear friend of the Young family, Sophie Barton. Sophie often sang in hospitals, understanding music’s power to heal people of all ages.   Barb and Steve Young shared, "Research has proven that music therapy fires the synapses to help create new neuro-pathways to replace those that have been damaged. It increases oxygen-saturation levels, alleviates pain, eases anxiety and depression, assists in fine and gross motor-skill development, and so much more. We are honored to partner with Renown Children's Hospital as we share with you the building of our newest Sophie's Place space, a music-therapy room which will bring hope, healing, and harmony to the children being treated in this special CMNH Children's hospital."   “As a pediatric intensive care physician, I’ve seen firsthand how music therapy can positively impact the health and well-being of hospital patients,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, Renown Health President and CEO.” We are proud to partner with the Forever Young Foundation and honor Sophie’s life and commitment to music through the creation of Sophie’s Place to share the healing power of music with our patients and their families at Renown Children’s Hospital.”   Sophie’s Place will feature a stage and seating area for groups, private recording and practice rooms, an editing station and storage space for generously donated instruments. There will also be a healing arts playroom equipped with games, art supplies and TV. This unique, music oasis was thoughtfully designed to help patients create meaningful connections with others, serve as a positive distraction from the unknowns that may accompany a trip to the hospital, and most importantly, encourage expression, creativity and healing. Project renderings may be accessed here.     “Thanks to the support of Barb and Steve Young and the Forever Young Foundation, we are proud to add a music therapy room to our Healing Arts program,” said Renown’s Chief Development Officer, Greg Walaitis. “The first of its kind in our community, Sophie’s Place will provide our youngest patients a calm and beautiful space to take a break from the hospital environment, where they can relax, socialize and just enjoy being kids.”   “We are extremely fortunate to have the Forever Young Foundation as generous partners who share Renown’s commitment of investing for the future,” said Max Coppes, M.D., Ph. D., MBA, Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at the University of Nevada School of Medicine and pediatrician-in-chief at Renown Children's Hospital. “Sophie’s Place will help countless young patients feel more comfortable along their healing journey, contributing to a brighter and more positive experience here at Renown.”   Sophie’s Place currently provides music therapy to children at Primary Children’s Hospital in Salt Lake City, Sutter Children’s Center in Sacramento, Calif., Cardon Children’s Medical Center in Mesa, Ariz., and Lucille Packard Children’s Hospital in Palo Alto, Calif. Renown Children’s Hospital will be its next location to break ground.    For ongoing updates on Sophie’s Place at Renown Children’s Hospital and ways you can support this impactful music therapy room for current and future generations, please visit Renown Health Foundation’s website or call 775-982-5545.     About Renown Children’s Hospital Renown Children’s Hospital is the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, and offers a variety of programs and services designed specifically to care for the community's families. It has the region’s only Children’s ER and Pediatric ICU. Renown Children’s Hospital is the only hospital affiliated with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) in the region and local CMN Hospitals' programs and events directly benefit children in the Truckee Meadows. It is also the only hospital in the region affiliated with CHA (Children’s Hospital Association). For more information, visit renown.org/children.   About Forever Young Foundation Founded in 1993 by NFL Hall of Famer Steve Young, Forever Young Foundation is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization focused on passing on hope and resources for the development, strength, and education of children. The Foundation serves children facing significant physical, emotional, and financial challenges by providing them with academic, athletic, and therapeutic opportunities currently unavailable to them. Forever Young Foundation primarily focuses our efforts in Northern California, Arizona, Utah, and Ghana, Africa.

Read More About Renown Health Foundation Announces Partnership with Forever Young Foundation to Build a Sophie's Place Music Therapy Room

The new, kid-friendly, interactive space in the Renown Children’s Specialty Center will support the needs of children, bringing them courage and hope to heal and thrive Renown Health Foundation is proud to announce the Panda Cares® Center of Hope at Renown Children’s Specialty Center located at 1155 Mill St. in Reno, made possible by the guests and associates of Panda Express®, who foster the spirit of giving and inspire brighter futures. The space offers an area for the Renown Children’s team to provide comprehensive care for children, creating an environment that reduces stress, promotes healing and provides an excellent patient and family experience. The Center of Hope upholds Panda Express®’ mission and values of being proactive, having respect for each other, learning and growing, committing to great operations and giving time and resources back to the community. The Center also supports the Panda Cares® areas of focus that address each child’s well-being, including their physical, emotional, mental and spiritual needs. Members of the media are invited to tour the Panda Cares® Center of Hope on Wednesday, August 12 from 1 – 2 p.m. To ensure appropriate physical distancing, outlets are asked to reserve a time to tour the space and interview representatives from Panda Express® and Renown Children’s using this link. Media will be escorted by Renown Public Affairs on hospital property and may park their cars in the Tahoe Tower roundabout at Renown Regional Medical Center during their designated time slot. “We are very fortunate to have such generous partners like the people behind Panda Express® who want to help our patients and their families, as well as our expert pediatric care teams,” said Max J Coppes, MD, PhD, Professor and Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics at UNR Med and Physician in Chief at Renown Children’s Hospital. “This Center will help young patients, and their parents, feel more comfortable along their healing journey, and give them a positive and lasting impression of the care people receive here at Renown Children’s.” “We are proud to partner with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to bring the vision of the Panda Cares® Center of Hope to life and are humbled to be able to be part of the healing journey for the families and kids at these hospitals,” said Dr. Peggy Cherng, co-founder and co-CEO of Panda Restaurant Group. “Children are our future, and we hope that through this partnership and curriculum designed to give children the strength to thrive, we will bring smiles and hope to communities nationwide.” One of the important resources supported through the Panda Cares® Center of Hope is Renown’s Child Life program, created to help both patients and their loved ones navigate the healthcare experience and the feelings that may come with it. “Our Child Life specialists are educated and clinically trained in the developmental impact of illness and injury. They do so much to make the patient and family care experience here at Renown the best it can be,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, Renown’s President and CEO. “We are grateful for our partnership with the team at Panda Express®, who are passionate about children’s health, and help us provide the highest level of care for children and their families.” The eight Panda Cares® Centers of Hope across the country are made possible by Panda Express® guests’ and associates’ donations. Following a commitment of $25 million to Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals to fund Panda Cares® Centers of Hope in 2019, Panda and CMN Hospitals have debuted Center of Hope locations at several hospitals in the U.S. including California, Texas, Nevada, Hawaii, Washington D.C., Arizona and Illinois. Panda Express® guests and their associates in northern Nevada and northeastern California have raised nearly $500,000 for Renown Children’s Hospital since 2007. “Over the years, the team at Panda Express® has inspired all of us at Renown with their generosity and willingness to help our local children and their families,” said Greg Walaitis, Renown’s Chief Development Officer. “The Panda Cares® Center of Hope is yet another example of their remarkable efforts to help our young patients live healthy, bright lives.” “With 22 pediatric physician specialists, the compassionate team at Renown Children’s Hospital currently cares for 9 out of 10 children right here at home, in northern Nevada. Formerly, families had to travel out of our area to receive pediatric specialty care. We are proud to introduce this special Center to our community members who place their unwavering confidence in our dedicated team of expert care providers, every day,” said Larry Duncan, Vice President of Pediatrics and Surgery and Administrator, Renown Children's.     About Renown Children’s Hospital Renown Children’s Hospital is the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, and offers a variety of programs and services designed specifically to care for the community's families. It has the region’s only Children’s ER and Pediatric ICU. Renown Children’s Hospital is the only hospital affiliated with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) in the region and local CMN Hospitals' programs and events directly benefit children in the Truckee Meadows. It is also the only hospital in the region affiliated with CHA (Children’s Hospital Association). For more information, visit renown.org/children. About Panda Express® On a mission to inspire better lives, Panda Express, an American Chinese Trailblazer, is the largest Asian dining concept in the U.S. Family-owned and operated since 1983 by co-founders and co-CEOs Andrew and Peggy Cherng, Panda Express is best known for creating a wide variety of industry-first recipes, including its best seller the Original Orange Chicken® and award-winning Honey Walnut Shrimp, which have defined the category of authentic American Chinese cuisine. Each dish at Panda Express, including the Wok Smart® selections, is thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients and inspired by bold Chinese flavors and culinary principles. The restaurant brand has more than 2,000 locations throughout the U.S. and has introduced American Chinese cuisine to more than ten international countries. Powered by this global family of associates, Panda Cares, the organization’s philanthropic arm, has raised more than $212 million and countless volunteer hours in bettering the health and education for over 12 million youths as well as supporting communities in need since 1999. For more information, visit pandaexpress.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $7 billion, most of it $1 at a time through the charity's Miracle Balloon icon. Its various fundraising partners and programs support the nonprofit's mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Find out why children's hospitals need community support, and learn about your member hospital, at and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

Read More About Renown Children's to Provide a Panda Cares® Center of Hope

Panda Express® locations support the healthcare needs of pediatric patients throughout northern Nevada. Renown Health Foundation is recognizing donations made by Panda Express® through its philanthropic arm, Panda Cares®, to young patients and their families receiving care at Renown Children’s Hospital. The generosity of Panda Express® guests and associates who foster the spirit of giving and inspire brighter futures will be celebrated on Saturday, August 8, the anniversary of Panda Cares. Donations collected year-round at local Panda Express® locations have helped miracles happen for area children like Naomi Bakker, one of the smallest babies ever cared for in Renown’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). Born a micro-preemie in 2015, Naomi weighed about 12 ounces at birth and spent 142 days in the NICU. Today, she shows few signs of her premature birth and enjoys playing with her brother and swimming – a remarkable feat considering she relied on an oxygen tank the first year of her life. Naomi’s parents credit physicians, nurses and the team at Renown Children’s Hospital for saving their daughter’s life. “We are privileged to witness miracles like Naomi every day,” said Max J. Coppes, M.D., Professor & Nell J. Redfield Chair of Pediatrics, Physician-in-Chief, Renown Children’s Hospital. “Not only does support from Panda Cares® help us improve the health and wellness of our local children, it equips our team with tools and resources to best serve our youngest community members and their families during a time of need.” Panda Express® is hosting a one-day virtual fundraiser on Saturday, August 8. When a guest places an order on the Panda Express® mobile app or website using the promo code “PandaCaresDay,” Panda will donate 28 percent of online sales to Renown Children’s Hospital. “Over the years, the amazing people from Panda Express® and funds from Panda Cares have supported Renown Children’s Hospital through specialty equipment, a meeting room, and our Child Life program. Child Life Specialists are educated and clinically trained in the developmental impact of illness and injury. They do so much to help improve the patient and family care experience here at Renown,” said Tony Slonim, MD, DrPH, Renown’s President and CEO. “We are grateful for our partnership with the team at Panda Express, who are passionate about children’s health, and help us provide the highest level of care for children.” Renown is proud to recognize Panda Express® for donating nearly half a million dollars in donations since 2008. Generous donations like this continue to help transform how Renown meets the most urgent needs of our community, inspires hope and saves lives, as northern Nevada’s only locally owned, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network. “Renown Health Foundation appreciates Panda Cares®’ generosity year after year, and the unwavering support of our community to make Saturday’s fundraiser a success,” said Greg Walaitis, Renown’s chief development officer. “Our hope is that you and your family can enjoy a nice meal from Panda Express® together, knowing your contribution makes it possible for champions like Naomi to grow up to be healthy and strong.” “Led by a team of 22 pediatric physician specialists, Renown Children’s clinicians provide over 50,000 patient visits annually, offering an exceptional level of care to help families. As a testimony to the community’s confidence in the care provided, and our generous donors, we now care for 9 out of 10 children right here at home, in northern Nevada. Formerly, families had to travel out of our area to receive pediatric specialty care,” said Larry Duncan, Vice President of Pediatrics and Surgery & Administrator, Renown Children's Hospital.       About Renown Children’s Hospital Renown Children’s Hospital is the only dedicated children’s hospital in northern Nevada, and offers a variety of programs and services designed specifically to care for the community's families. It has the region’s only Children’s ER and Pediatric ICU. Renown Children’s Hospital is the only hospital affiliated with Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals (CMNH) in the region and local CMN Hospitals' programs and events directly benefit children in the Truckee Meadows. It is also the only hospital in the region affiliated with CHA (Children’s Hospital Association). For more information, visit renown.org/children.   About Panda Express® On a mission to inspire better lives, Panda Express, an American Chinese Trailblazer, is the largest Asian dining concept in the U.S. Family-owned and operated since 1983 by co-founders and co-CEOs Andrew and Peggy Cherng, Panda Express is best known for creating a wide variety of industry-first recipes, including its best seller the Original Orange Chicken® and award-winning Honey Walnut Shrimp, which have defined the category of authentic American Chinese cuisine. Each dish at Panda Express, including the Wok Smart® selections, is thoughtfully crafted with quality ingredients and inspired by bold Chinese flavors and culinary principles. The restaurant brand has more than 2,000 locations throughout the U.S. and has introduced American Chinese cuisine to more than ten international countries. Powered by this global family of associates, Panda Cares, the organization’s philanthropic arm, has raised more than $212 million and countless volunteer hours in bettering the health and education for over 12 million youths as well as supporting communities in need since 1999. For more information, visit visit pandaexpress.com, or find us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram.  About Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals® raises funds and awareness for 170 member hospitals that provide 32 million treatments each year to kids across the U.S. and Canada. Donations stay local to fund critical treatments and healthcare services, pediatric medical equipment and charitable care. Since 1983, Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals has raised more than $7 billion, most of it $1 at a time through the charity's Miracle Balloon icon. Its various fundraising partners and programs support the nonprofit's mission to save and improve the lives of as many children as possible. Find out why children's hospitals need community support, and learn about your member hospital, at CMNHospitals.org and facebook.com/CMNHospitals.

Read More About Renown Health Celebrates Panda Cares Day™ on Saturday, August 8

Flatbed concert by power house group Jelly Bread set to commemorate this monumental gift from the Robert and Dorothy Keyser Foundation. Renown Health Foundation announced today that the LOVE sculpture, a one-ton, welded aluminum artwork with letters 10-feet tall and eight-feet wide, has found a permanent home at Renown Regional Medical Center’s main entrance thanks to a donation from the Robert and Dorothy Keyser Foundation. To celebrate, Renown has partnered with Carson City’s Brewery Arts Center to bring music to the people of 89502with a flat bed concert by the nationally-touring band and Jelly Bread. The concert will be tonight from 5-8 p.m. and the truck will stop at various locations near the LOVE sculpture, playing feel-good, urban sounds of funk and rock. See the official concert route here and attached.    “Since April and the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the LOVE sculpture has been a powerful source of hope, inspiration and determination for our community,” said Blake Smith, chair of the Keyser Foundation. “Now, we can’t imagine the entrance of the hospital without it. We are happy that the incredible piece of art will continue shining a bright light while spreading warmth and comfort to all who care for those in our hospitals, patients and families, and those who pass by.” Blake Smith will be at the LOVE sculpture today from 11 a.m. – noon to speak on the Keyser Foundation’s donation. A Renown spokesperson will also be available to speak on the evening’s traveling flatbed concert festivities. Members of the media are invited to the LOVE sculpture tonight at 5 p.m. to cover the concert.    The LOVE structure was originally slated to be on display at Renown from April 16-July 16 as part of a partnership with local non-profit, Artown. However, because of the generosity of the Keyser Foundation, the sculpture will remain in its current location, clearly visible to employees, physicians, patients, families and vehicular and pedestrian traffic along the Mill and Ryland Street corridors.    Dr. Tony Slonim, president and CEO of Renown says, “Purchasing the LOVE sculpture to stay on our Regional Medical Center campus was an incredible act of love demonstrated by our former Renown Board Chair, Blake Smith and the Keyser Foundation— a love for our community, a love for those fighting for their health and a love for those fighting to keep our community safe. This piece of art has already inspired so many and comforted those in need during such a notable time in our nation’s history. I encourage everyone to experience this wonderful gift to our community.”   To celebrate the sculpture’s new home, Jelly Bread will play an upbeat musical set on a traveling flatbread truck, sharing the love with nearby neighborhoods and parks—beginning and ending at the LOVE sculpture.  “We are extremely grateful to Blake Smith and the Keyser Foundation for bestowing a gift our entire community can enjoy,” said Renown Health Foundation’s chief development officer, Greg Walaitis. “Since the concept of love and music are harmonious, we can’t imagine a better way to celebrate this gift than with a community-wide flatbed concert by a band that exudes positivity, and of course, LOVE.” Debuting at Burning Man in 2019, the LOVE sculpture was created by artist Laura Kimpton and fabricated by Jeff Schomberg. Over the years, the duo has collaborated to create 18 letter-based sculptures—including the popular BELIEVE and HOME, which are located in Reno and OINK and MOM pieces, which have been featured around the world.  Renown believes that healthcare and the arts work hand-in-hand to help heal the mind, body and soul. Displays of visual art and musical performances can be observed at Renown locations throughout the region, year-round.  Ways to Support the Arts at Renown Health: Make a gift at renown.org/give Call Renown Health Foundation at 775-982-5545 Mail a check to Renown Health Foundation, 1155 Mill St., O2, Reno, NV 89502 Venmo: @RenownFoundation     About Renown Health Renown Health is the region’s largest, locally owned and governed, not-for-profit integrated healthcare network serving Nevada, Lake Tahoe and northeast California. With a diverse workforce of more than 7,000 employees, Renown has fostered a longstanding culture of excellence, determination and innovation. The organization comprises a trauma center, two acute care hospitals, a children’s hospital, a rehabilitation hospital, a medical group and urgent care network, and the region’s largest, locally owned not-for-profit insurance company, Hometown Health. Renown’s institute model addresses social determinants of health and includes: Child Health, Behavioral Health & Addiction, Healthy Aging and Health Innovation. Clinical institutes include: Cancer, Heart and Vascular Heath, Neurosciences and Robotic Surgery. Renown is currently enrolling participants in the world’s largest community-based genetic population health study, the Healthy Nevada Project®. For more information, visit renown.org.

Read More About Iconic Love Sculpture to Make Permanent Home at Renown