Henry Ford Hospital Receives Largest Donation Ever for Cancer Building

Henry Ford Hospital has received its largest individual donation ever to build a new cancer pavilion.

Bre’Anna Tinsley/ WDET

Henry Ford Hospital has received its largest individual gift ever to build a new cancer clinical care and research facility.

Detroit businessman and philanthropist Mort Harris donated $20 million to the hospital in honor of his late wife Brigitte.

Harris says he believes Henry Ford could be the hospital to find a cure for pancreatic cancer.

“So I thought, well I’m going to throw some money at it. And maybe I’m making a mistake but I hope I’m not and I’m going to be watching carefully. I’m very eager to see them, Ford, find the solution,” Harris says.

Brigitte Harris was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2014 and received care at Henry Ford Hospital.

The donation is part of a $40 million package from Harris to build the Brigitte Harris Cancer Pavilion, which will offer both clinical care and support services for cancer patients. 

Author

  • Bre'Anna Tinsley
    Bre'Anna Tinsley is a reporter for Detroit Public Radio, 101.9 WDET. She covers city government and housing, as well as co-hosting the "Detroit Evening Report" podcast.