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Marian Edelstein |
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What began as a volunteer opportunity for a young
Hyde Park woman more than 50 years ago has evolved
into a life-long relationship with the University
of Chicago, distinguished by her commitment to the support of healthcare.
That support was reflected once again this year
when Marian Edelstein, who now resides in downtown
Chicago, donated $2 million to establish a professorship
in leukemia in honor of her late husband.
The Arthur and Marian Edelstein Professorship will
benefit the University’s acclaimed leukemia
research efforts while recognizing the contributions
of one of its world-class physicians and scientists
working in the area of leukemia and cancer research.
Previously, Marian established the Arthur and Marian
Edelstein Lab with a gift of $500,000 after her husband
lost his battle with leukemia in 1998.
“I know my husband would be pleased
with this gift, which will help advance research
and education in leukemia, a disease that has affected
our family so deeply,” says Marian Edelstein. Marian’s husband was a successful
businessman who owned a thriving liquor distributing
company.
During and prior to their 51-year history, Joseph
Kirsner, MD, PhD, the Louis Block Distinguished
Service Professor in Medicine, saw four generations
of the family including Marian’s mother.
Years before he was diagnosed with leukemia, Arthur
was also treated by Dr. Kirsner for intestinal
complications. “I made a diagnosis, cured
him and we became close friends.” says Kirsner.
Marian Edelstein’s University of Chicago
Involvement
- A 1935 graduate of the University of Chicago
Laboratory Schools
- President of Mother’s Aid from 1961 to
1963
- First recipient of the Joseph B. Kirsner GIRF
Distinguished Benefactor Award
Marian joined the GIRF board shortly after its formation
in 1962 and has only missed a few meetings over the
years. She is one of only three honorary board members.
After celebrating her 90th birthday in 2007, she
plans to continue attending the meetings as well
as the Women’s Board fashion show. “Marian’s
commitment to GIRF has not wavered over the years
and I’m confident she’ll continue to
be a faithful advocate for our research efforts,” Kirsner
said.
For more information on leukemia or other cancer
research programs at the University of Chicago, please
contact Stephanie Dahl at 773-834-4726.
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