Serpil Erzurum MD, Executive Vice President, Chief Research and Academic Officer, Cleveland Clinic Lerner Research Institute, Dana Morris, Bill Waldeck
For Bill Waldeck and Dana Morris, a couple hailing from Parkersburg, West Virginia, philanthropy is not just about donating money—it’s about creating meaningful change and leaving a legacy of compassion. Over the years, the connection to Cleveland Clinic for these business owners has grown from being patients to becoming champions of the institution’s mission, inspired by the exceptional care they’ve received and the impact they believe their giving can have.
Waldeck, a proud Parkersburg native, was first introduced to Cleveland Clinic in the late 1980s when he needed specialized medical care. “The care and the attitude of the staff were indescribable,” he recalls. “You’re not just a number—you’re treated as a person with unique needs.” Morris jokingly adds, “He always says he’d rather die in an ambulance on the way to Cleveland Clinic than get treated anywhere else.”
Their relationship to Cleveland Clinic grew while spending time at their second home in Florida when Waldeck underwent procedures ranging from back surgery to kidney treatment. It was here that they discovered the many offerings of Cleveland Clinic in Florida. “We’ve been to Fort Lauderdale, Coral Springs, and Weston,” Waldeck says, recalling the consistently exceptional care they have received.
But their appreciation for Cleveland Clinic runs deeper than just excellent patient care. “Every dollar we give does some good,” Waldeck explains. “We know it’s helping everyone, including those with no means.”
For Waldeck and Morris, their philanthropy is rooted in their individual experiences with cancer and their desire to make a broader impact. “Cancer has touched everyone,” Morris says. “It’s important to contribute to cancer research because it affects every family in America.” “If our donation can save one life, it’s worth it,” adds Waldeck.
To show their dedication, they each made a testamentary gift, a combined total of $12 million, to cancer research at Cleveland Clinic, becoming members of Cleveland Clinic’s Pyramid Legacy Society. The Pyramid Legacy Society honors those who have made planned gifts to Cleveland Clinic, expressing deep gratitude for their commitment to advancing medicine and inspiring others to support the hospital’s mission of providing the highest-quality patient care, research and education. With their gift, they’ve also joined the VeloSano Legacy Circle, which recognizes those who have made testamentary gifts to benefit cancer research at Cleveland Clinic.
With their names now etched on the walls of the lobby of Cleveland Clinic’s Taussig Cancer Center, patients who enter the doors will be greeted with a visual reminder of their generosity. “We love that Cleveland Clinic recognizes legacy donors while they’re still alive,” Morris says. “It’s wonderful to see the impact we’re making.”
Waldeck and Morris with Tom Mihaljevic, MD, CEO and President and Morton L. Mandel CEO Chair of Cleveland Clinic (left)
Through their giving, Waldeck and Morris hope to inspire others to contribute, in any way they can, regardless of the amount. “Anyone can make a difference,” Waldeck says. “Philanthropy isn’t just for the wealthy. It’s about creating a ripple effect that helps countless people.”
For them, Cleveland Clinic is not just a healthcare provider—it’s become family. “It’s a place where you feel cared for, no matter who you are,” said Morris.
“You can’t take it with you,” Waldeck says. “But you can leave behind a legacy that changes lives.”
100% For The Cure
