WVU Healthcare

West Virginia University beat the University of Pittsburgh in a friendly competition to see which school could raise more money for its cancer center.  WVU raised nearly $18,000 during the Penny Wars campaign compared to Pitt’s $7,500.

“This is tremendous,” said Jame Abraham, M.D., section chief of Hematology Oncology at WVU.  “We are very grateful for the overwhelming support shown by the university and local community for Penny Wars.”

“It’s absolutely terrific,” added Scot C. Remick, M.D., director of the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center at WVU. 

WVU’s collection will go to the Comfort Fund at the Mary Babb Randolph Cancer Center.  The Fund provides cancer patients with short-term financial assistance for medication, gasoline and lodging expenses.  The $7,500 raised at Pitt will be used for lung and thoracic cancer research at the Hillman Cancer Center in Pittsburgh.

The campaign ran from October 20 to November 16.  Collection bins were placed around the two schools and at area businesses.  Student groups at WVU and public school students, including those at South Middle School, supported Penny Wars through their own fundraising efforts.

“This kind of generosity will mean a lot to many of our patients,” said Dr. Abraham.  “The money raised will help reduce the stress and financial burden that can accompany a cancer diagnosis and allows patients to focus on getting well.”

“Everybody’s contribution helps,” said Dr. Remick. 

WVU President Mike Garrison announced the winner of the Penny Wars competition in a video message on the scoreboard and in a brief ceremony on the field at the WVU versus Pitt football game on Saturday.