Grateful patient donates $350,000 to Lee Health Heart Institute after lifesaving care

FORT MYERS, Fla. - Feb. 17, 2025 - PRLog -- After receiving emergency treatment at Lee Health Heart Institute, Southwest Florida resident Brian Seasholes and his wife, Samantha Sheridan, have donated $250,000 to support advanced cardiac care in the region. The couple has also committed an additional $100,000 following this year's Grateful Hearts event to further support the Institute's mission.

In January of 2024, Seasholes was diagnosed with a life-threatening aortic dissection, resulting in emergency surgical intervention by cardiothoracic surgeons at Lee Health Heart Institute.

"We're incredibly grateful to the physicians and staff at Lee Health who saved my husband's life," said Sheridan. "Their exceptional care not only carried him through a critical moment but also set us on a hopeful path to recovery. We are very thankful to the entire Lee Health system."

"Brian's story is a powerful reminder of the lifesaving work happening every day at the Lee Health Heart Institute," said Adam deJong, vice president of operations at Lee Health Heart Institute. "His experience highlights the dedication of our medical team and the impact they have on our community."

Their generous donation will stay in the community, ensuring the Lee Health Heart Institute has the latest equipment and technology to meet the growing needs of thousands of patients.

To learn more about supporting exceptional heart care in your community, visit LeeHealthFoundation.org/Heart.

About Lee Health Foundation

Lee Health Foundation raises philanthropic dollars on behalf of private nonprofit Lee Health to establish, expand and enhance innovative, lifesaving and preventative programs. The Foundation provides financial support for all five Lee Health hospitals including Golisano Children's Hospital and Lee Health Fort Myers, opening late 2027, as well as many service areas including Lee Health Cancer Institute, Lee Health Coconut Point, Lee Health Heart Institute, Lee Health Hospital at Home, Lee Health Musculoskeletal Institute, and Community Health Clinics. Over the last year, the Foundation has distributed more than $27 million to support Lee Health's mission. Please visit LeeHealthFoundation.org (http://www.leehealthfoundation.org/) or call 239-343-6950 for more information about the role of Lee Health philanthropy in Southwest Florida.