Foundation

Edward & Carolyn Czerkies

Edward and Carolyn Czerkies have been passionate advocates in the fight against cancer around the world and in Will County.  Carolyn fought myeloma, a cancer of the bone marrow, with her heart, body and soul.  Throughout her diagnosis, treatments, and endless days in the hospital, the couple thought about how they could make life better for others battling the disease and their family members.  

After Carolyn’s passing in 2000, the Joliet entrepreneur turned cancer activist made several significant contributions to many charitable organizations in a valiant effort to save lives, empower people, ensure quality care for all and energize science to find cures.  

In 2011, Ed’s benevolent donation supported the creation of the University of Chicago Medicine Comprehensive Cancer Center at Silver Cross Hospital.  Named the Carolyn J. Czerkies Pavilion, the two-story facility provides state-of-the-art chemotherapy and radiation therapy as well as access to clinical trials.  Through a unique partnership between University of Chicago Medical Center and Silver Cross Hospital, leading cancer specialists as well as advanced and investigational therapies are available in a community hospital setting. 

Thanks to the generosity of these local business leaders and humanitarians, superior cancer care is accessible close to home.