Dart Foundation gift to enhance regional stroke center

Published: Sept. 9, 2010

LANSING, Mich. - The William and Claire Dart Stroke Center has been dedicated at Sparrow Hospital in recognition of a $500,000 gift from the Dart Foundation. The Stroke Center, located in Sparrow Hospital's neuro intensive care unit, brings together advanced equipment, expert physicians, and highly trained staff to deliver cutting-edge stroke care with quality that is among the best in the country.

"The dedication of the William and Claire Dart Stroke Center represents a significant step forward," said Sparrow Foundation President Mike Wall. "This facility provides Sparrow a greater ability to serve mid-Michigan residents, giving our communities access to superior services and advanced treatments for the third-leading cause of death in the United States."

The recent dedication dovetailed with National Stroke Awareness Month, held every year during May. Representing the Dart family at this special dedication was Ariane Dart, daughter-in-law of William and Claire Dart. Sparrow Neurosciences Center -- now joined by the William and Claire Dart Stroke Center -- is a partnership that includes Sparrow, Lansing Neurosurgical Associates, and the Michigan State University HealthTeam. Together, these organizations are leaders in neuroscience research, surgery and patient care.

Sparrow Hospital has been awarded advanced certification as a Primary Stroke Center by the Joint Commission, a premier private, non-profit organization that provides certification programs for health care organizations, including hospitals.

The Dart Foundation, based in Mason, is a private family foundation established in 1984 by William A. and Claire T. Dart.