Couple’s longtime gratitude inspires an investment in the future of neurology research

Over the course of their 30+ year relationship with Henry Ford Health, Andy and Nancy Vanchick have played many roles: patient, volunteer, advocate and grateful donor.

Their journey began in 1993 after Andy had brain surgery at Henry Ford Hospital to treat his epilepsy. The surgery was a success, and a month later Andy crossed paths with a close friend who, after also undergoing surgery at Henry Ford Hospital with similarly positive results, encouraged Andy to give back in honor of the care they received. Motivated by the new lease on life his operation gave him after decades of debilitating seizures, Andy did.

Andy’s surgeon, former Henry Ford neurosurgeon Kost Elisevich, M.D., Ph.D., suggested that he start a support group for patients with epilepsy. For 15 years Andy ran this group with the help of Henry Ford physicians, where patients would share experiences, learn about treatment options and offer support for each other on their respective journeys.

“People’s faces light up when they know that there is a chance or hope out there for a cure,” he shared. “The gratefulness and thankfulness is really an unbelievable thing. You’ve got to go through it to experience it.”

In addition to inspiring hope in other patients with epilepsy, Andy and his wife Nancy began making annual donations to Henry Ford.

Over the years, the Vanchicks have continued receiving care from Henry Ford Health, but never forgot the life-changing operation that started their journey. According to Nancy and Andy, making a larger commitment to support the Neurology department at Henry Ford was, “a no-brainer.”

They decided to each dedicate a charitable gift annuity (CGA) to neurology funds at Henry Ford.

A charitable gift annuity is a planned giving vehicle in which a donor makes a gift of cash or other assets to an organization; in return, they benefit from an up-front tax deduction and annual payments for life, all while supporting transformational programs that are important to them.

“What a bonus to make a gift and get back,” said Andy, who has now been seizure free for over 30 years.

The Vanchicks’ CGAs will support the Neurology Education and Research Fund and the Neurosurgery Education and Research Fund – both of which advance leading-edge research to develop new therapies and technologies to treat neurological conditions.

“I want to bring a better life for people that come after me,” Andy said.

Added Nancy, “Plus, it makes you feel good. It’s a win-win for everybody.”