The Associate Board of NorthShore University HealthSystem Kicks Off 11th Annual Benefit at MATTER Chicago

The Associate Board of NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) proudly kicked off their 11th Annual Benefit, “Once Upon a Time,” with a festive and informative celebration at MATTER Chicago, a healthcare technology incubator located in Chicago’s historic Merchandise Mart. Attendees enjoyed drinks and light bites while learning about this year’s Benefit, which takes place Saturday, October 24, at Roosevelt University’s Auditorium Library. Additionally, members and friends heard from the evening’s two notable keynote speakers, Pablo Gejman, M.D., Director, Center for Psychiatric Genetics and Genomic Health InitiativeProgram, and Rishi Shah, founder of Context Media Inc.

Gejman is beginning a groundbreaking new study into the biological mechanisms behind peripartum mood disorder (PPMD). Postpartum depression, which is the most common form of PPMD, affects one in seven women. Starting this year, the Associate Board will funds Gejman’s three year study in addition to continuing its support for the Infant Special Care Unit at NorthShore Evanston Hospital.

Keeping with the cutting edge theme, the crowd was entertained and informed by Rishi Shah who talked about Context Media’s mission to improve health outcomes for patients by serving actionable health information to chronic disease patients at the right time and place, such as their doctor’s offices.

“Hearing from both Dr. Gejman and Mr. Shah introduced everyone at the kickoff event to the incredible things that are happening in medicine at NorthShore and how they are positively impacting patient outcomes,” said Emily Laipple, Associate Board President. “It is so rewarding to see how the money that we raise through our efforts is having an immediate, direct impact on improving the lives of patients at NorthShore and beyond.”

Proceeds from the Benefit will support Gejman’s research and the Infant Special Care Unit (ISCU) at NorthShore Evanston Hospital. NorthShore Evanston Hospital’s ISCU utilizes the latest technologies to provide neo-natal, intermediate and continuing care for infants requiring specialized care. To date, The Associate Board has raised more than $500,000 to support this worthy cause.

For more information about The Associate Board of NorthShore, to inquire about becoming a member, make a donation, or purchase tickets to the “Once Upon a Time” 11th Annual Benefit, please visit foundation.northshore.org/associate-board-benefit or call (224) 364-7275 or e-mail associateboard@northshore.org.

About NorthShore University HealthSystem

The Associate Board of NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) is a fundraising organization of young professionals providing members with philanthropic, educational and service opportunities benefiting NorthShore and the community.

Headquartered in Evanston, Illinois, NorthShore University HealthSystem (NorthShore) is a comprehensive, fully integrated, healthcare delivery system that serves the Chicago region. The system includes four hospitals in Evanston, Glenview, Highland Park and Skokie. NorthShore employs approximately 10,000 staff and has 2,400 affiliated physicians, including a 900 physician, multispecialty group practice with some 100 office locations. Further, NorthShore supports teaching and research as the principal teaching affiliate for the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine.

The NorthShore Research Institute focuses on clinical and translational research, including leadership in clinical trials, medical informatics and genomics. The NorthShore Foundation is the organization’s primary philanthropic entity. The Foundation raises charitable contributions and engages volunteer friends in support of NorthShore’s ongoing mission to preserve and improve human life.

NorthShore has significant capabilities in a wide spectrum of clinical programs, including Kellogg Cancer Center, NorthShore Neurological Institute, NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute and NorthShore Cardiovascular Institute, as well as high-risk maternity and pediatrics. NorthShore is a Magnet recognized organization, the first in Illinois designated as a system to receive this prestigious honor that demonstrates excellence in nursing. NorthShore is a national leader in the implementation of innovative technologies, including electronic medical records (EMR). In 2003, NorthShore was among the first in the country to successfully launch a system-wide EMR with demonstrable benefits in quality, safety, efficiency and service to patients. NorthShore has been recognized by multiple national organizations for this notable achievement.