Grand Opening Celebrates Presti Gift to Oklahoma Children's Hospital OU Health

In June 2019, Sam Presti, executive vice president and general manager of the Oklahoma City Thunder, and his wife, Shannon, presented a generous gift that has had a transformative impact on Oklahoma Children's Hospital OU Health. The donation of $600,000 funded an array of renovations and technology upgrades, all serving to further advance patient care provided at the nationally recognized children's facility on the OU Health Sciences Center campus.

Thanks to the family's gift, two procedure rooms have been renovated. The advanced technology made possible by the gift elevates services provided at the Jimmy Everest Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders in Children and the Bone Marrow Transplant Unit at Oklahoma Children's Hospital. OU Health Physicians pediatric cancer and blood disorder specialists at the Jimmy Everest Center are highly specialized and the only physicians caring for pediatric cancer patients in the state.

The Prestis' generosity also has created a nurturing space in the east lobby of Oklahoma Children's Hospital, transforming both indoor and outdoor areas for patients and families to enjoy the Presti Clubhouse and Play Area. These amenities foster creativity and promote healing for patients during their stay.

An engaged part of the community and supporter of the mission of Oklahoma Children's Hospital, the Prestis approached hospital leaders in fall 2018 to explore ways the Presti family might make a positive difference for patients and families.

Jon Hayes, president of Oklahoma Children's Hospital, said, "Sam's resolute sense of gratitude to the community was obvious early on. It was clear that he and Shannon wanted to reciprocate in a way that would benefit all Oklahomans irrespective of location, socioeconomic status or any other barrier. The Prestis have a vision for a strong children's hospital that endures well into the future and understand that premier pediatric care has an essential aspect for all citizens of the state. We are so grateful for their generosity."

Interior amenities include an expanded east lobby with family-friendly seating areas and interactive playscapes. Incorporating natural elements with play structures, these areas are highly appealing to children and families. New and improved outdoor seating areas accommodate patients and families, and also offer respite spaces for staff members. Outdoor areas include playscapes that tie with the indoor space, a wagon trail and the official Presti Clubhouse and Play Area. Built just for children, this space fosters imaginative play, and provides immediate opportunities for fun and fresh air. Future plans will capitalize on the versatility of the space as an additional venue for events and activities outside the Family Resource Center.

Hayes said the most exceptional level of patient- and family-centered care is the highest priority for Oklahoma Children's Hospital, and outcomes that improve the lives of children reach across the state and beyond. "The Presti family's gift helps us make every patient and family's hospital stay as comfortable as possible. It will contribute toward improved recovery and support the healing process in tangible ways."

Oklahoma Children's Hospital OU Health is part of OU Medicine, a 501(c)(3) providing state of the art medical services to the children of Oklahoma and the region. OU Health Physicians representing nearly every pediatric specialty see patients at the hospital, as well as in clinics in the Oklahoma City metropolitan area and throughout the state.