Our NICU serves as a tremendous resource to the growing number of families in our area who rely on us for care that simply is not available at most other hospitals in our region. Our volume of babies is rapidly increasing. In response to this rising demand, Providence Holy Cross launched a $6.3 million NICU Expansion Campaign to dramatically expand the size and capabilities of our NICU. We plan to expand the number of available bed and will be adding a host of enhancements to our caregiving for premature babies.

At 19 Marwan Masri is perhaps the most remarkable teenager we’ve ever met. Born in Syria, he grew up in Dubai before attending the Pre-Medical School at UCLA. At just 15, inspired by the altruism of his father, Dr. Gehad Masri, he donated all of his savings to typhoon relief efforts in the Philippines.

“He was always affected by other people’s problems,” Dr. Masri said. “I tell him, ’As doctors we must treat all people whether they have money, regardless of their religion or where they’re from. We must give our best for their health and care about them.”

Following in his father’s footsteps, Marwan has made this his life’s mission.

A year ago he received a card announcing the Holy Cross NICU Expansion Campaign. Drawn in by our message of compassionate care, he felt an unmistakable connection. He came for a visit and, impressed by the level of support patients received from both doctors and nurses, made a promise. “I could see the staff really care about the patients. I thought, ‘I want to be a part of this. I want to be a part of the mission that is this hospital.’ So I thought I could help with this donation,” he smiled and shrugged. “They call themselves caregivers, not just staff, which I thought was really cool.”

In an extraordinary demonstration of his commitment, Marwan pledged to raise $500,000 for the NICU Expansion Fund.

Dr. Masri introduced his son to his business associates and colleagues in Dubai. However, inspiring them to give to a campaign benefitting a community half a world away was entirely up to Marwan. With characteristic humility and his straightforward style he said, “Everyone wants to see world class health care. I ask them, ‘Wouldn’t you want the doctor or nurse to treat your family just as if they were a family member? Empathy, compassion, the care that a doctor or nurse shows their patient, that’s what’s really important.”

Due to generous contributions from you and fellow supporters like the Masris, we have seen miracles at the bedside as our most high-risk babies develop into strong and healthy children. With you by our side, we will strive to make that possible for every patient, no matter what.