Cedars-Sinai announced Friday a $35 million donation from the foundation of investor and former attorney Bruce Karsh and his wife Martha that will establish an interventional cardiology division at the hospital.
According to the medical center, the gift was made in honor of Martha Karsh's 94-year-old mother, who suffered a "catastrophic mitral valve rupture" two years ago and was treated by Cedars-Sinai Dr. Raj Makkar and the interventional cardiology team.
Of the $35 million, $30 million will establish the Karsh Division of Interventional Cardiology at Cedars' Smidt Heart Institute. The other $5 million will establish the Karsh Distinguished Chair in Interventional Cardiology, a position that will be held by Makkar.
"Our interventional cardiology programs are available around the clock to provide urgent care to those who need it most," Makkar said in a statement. "Thanks to the incredible generosity of the Karsh family, we not only are able to sustain this critical service but also enhance and grow it. Their gift makes them true partners in our mission, helping us continue to provide the highest level of care, and we are deeply grateful for their support."
According to the hospital, Makkar's interventional cardiology team at Cedars treats more than 10,000 patients annually. The newly established division will treat conditions such as valvular defects, electrical rhythm disorders, heart muscle dysfunction and congenital heart disease, officials said.
"'Education, Community, Democracy' is a motto of our foundation," the Karsh family said in a statement. "With this gift, we aim to amplify our commitment to both our community and medical education. Ultimately, what we hope to contribute to the world of medicine on a global scale with Cedars-Sinai is a powerful testament to what results from intention put into action."
Cedars-Sinai is already home to the Karsh Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology.