Debra Friedman Archive — Page 1 of 4

Smiling child wearing a pearl headband and lavender dress, leaning on a wooden surface outdoors in bright sunlight.
September 23, 2026

Care Reimagined

Expanded pediatric hematology and oncology spaces transform the treatment experience for patients, families and the teams who care for them.

By Christina Echegaray
Seven people pose outdoors beside a swimming pool, with five standing behind two seated people. The group is identified in the supplied caption as Sophia Featherstone, Phillip Featherstone, Lily Hensiek, Sophie Hensiek, Larisa Featherstone, Carol Johnston and Ron Johnston.
August 4, 2026

Featherstone and Johnston families make $5 million gift to establish Lily’s Garden Pediatric Leukemia Program at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt

Family’s newest commitment will advance research, precision medicine and support services for children with leukemia.

By Christina Echegaray
Illustration of a healthcare professional in a white coat and stethoscope speaking with a bearded man in a red shirt, set against a landscape combining a city skyline, suburban homes, farmland, forests, and water.
June 10, 2026

Cancer Care in the Deep South

By Tom Wilemon
Patient Monroe Peterson inspired the creation of the MVP Challenge to raise funds supporting children’s cancer treatment and research.
June 12, 2025

The real MVP: Fitness challenge raises funds in honor of 4-year-old cancer patient

The fitness challenge raised funds to support pediatric cancer research, training and care at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

By Sarah Thornton
Artist rendering of a bright outpatient clinic waiting area with a curved reception desk, colorful child-sized chairs, patterned sofas, artwork, and several people.
March 12, 2025

Expanded space enhances care for pediatric cancer patients

The renovation will provide private infusion rooms and dedicated, tailored space for young children, teenagers and young adults, all of whom have different needs.

By Nancy Humphrey
Emma Ryleigh Dixon. (photo by Kathryn Krueger)
November 11, 2024

An inspiring legacy

Family establishes ERDie Project in memory of daughter, Emma Ryleigh Dixon, to support pediatric bone cancer research at Monroe Carell Jr. Children’s Hospital at Vanderbilt.

By Paige Turner