Healing with Heart: A Deep Dive into Phoenix Children’s Hospital with JD

In this episode of Eye on Anthem, hosts Eric and Sawana welcome JD, a Corporate Development Officer from Phoenix Children’s Hospital (PCH). The conversation explores the hospital's life-saving mission, its rapid expansion across the Valley, and the critical role of community philanthropy in funding over 170 specialized programs. Eric also shares a moving personal story about how PCH saved his son's life, highlighting the profound impact the hospital has on Arizona families. Key Discussion Points Philanthropy-Powered Care: PCH manages over 170 programs that are entirely funded by donations. Without fundraising, essential services like animal-assisted therapy, the Child Life Zone, and the One Darn Cool School would not exist. The "One Darn Cool School": This program features eight master’s level educators who work bedside with patients to keep them current on their specific school curriculum rather than just providing generic lessons. Rapid Growth and Reach: The hospital currently has over 40 satellite offices and is expanding with new locations in Arrowhead, Avondale, and Mercy Gilbert. They serve patients from 49 states and 9 different countries. Specialized Mental Health Services: A new mental health facility is being developed at the ASU West campus to address the critical shortage of pediatric psychiatric beds and counseling. World-Class Rankings: Phoenix Children’s is currently ranked #2 in the nation for pediatric heart transplants. Intentional Design: The main campus architecture is designed to mimic water and light to create a calming environment. Features include wave-shaped benches and changing lights placed specifically at a child’s eye level. Upcoming Fundraising Events The community is invited to support PCH through two upcoming poker tournaments: Prescott Poker Tournament: Taking place Friday, January 19th at Founding Fathers. The event includes Texas Hold'em and a blackjack table for those knocked out early. Anthem Poker Tournament: Scheduled for February 26th at HomeLand Brew Co.. Get Involved Hospital Tours: JD encourages potential partners and community members to schedule a tour of the main campus to see the philanthropically funded programs in action. Support: For more information on how to donate or participate in events, contact Eric or Sawana through their Facebook page, Eric and Sawana's Eye on Anthem. "It’s the premier pediatric health provider in Arizona, but nationally, we’re really on the up and up." — JD, PCH Corporate Development Officer