CEO James Weidner, 2009 Spirit of Life® Award Recipient

The Cooperative of American Physicians, Inc. is pleased to announce that this past January, Chief Executive Officer James L. Weidner was named 2009 recipient of the Spirit of Life® Award, City of Hope’s most prestigious philanthropic honor. A gala black tie dinner celebrating Mr. Weidner and his award was held at the Langham Huntington Hotel in Pasadena on Saturday, November 14.

Spirit of Life® Award honorees are selected for their notable contributions to their community and profession. The award is given to individuals who have committed their time and resources to helping those in need. “James Weidner is the embodiment of the Spirit of Life,” says Michael Sandler, Director of Development, City of Hope. “For nearly twenty years, he has been an avid advocate for City of Hope and its mission. His leadership and dedication to City of Hope has made a significant impact in helping our physicians and scientists move the latest discoveries into improved treatments for patients everywhere. We are fortunate to have his support and are pleased to recognize him with the Spirit of Life® Award.”

Past recipients of this prestigious award include a broad range of leaders from the world of business, entertainment, science, and philanthropy. What connects them is a shared commitment to elevating the human condition and a profound belief in the power of each individual to effect change. “I am honored to be the recipient of this year’s Spirit of Life® Award and to continue my association with City of Hope,” says Mr. Weidner. “City of Hope’s physicians and researchers are making scientific discoveries that will help improve medical treatment for people around the world who face a life-threatening disease.”

Mr. Weidner has served on the City of Hope’s National Insurance Industry Council since 1986. This group has a long and distinguished history, with more than 30 years of support for City of Hope and has raised well over $19 million to benefit groundbreaking research, treatment, and education programs.

About City of Hope

City of Hope is recognized worldwide for its compassionate patient care, innovative science and translational research, which rapidly turns laboratory breakthroughs into promising new therapies.

City of Hope is one of only 40 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers nationwide and a founding member of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network. An independent biomedical research, treatment and education institution, they are a leader in the fight to conquer cancer, diabetes, HIV/AIDS and other life-threatening diseases.

The park-like campus just northeast of Los Angeles, researchers advance ideas into discoveries, physicians bring emerging therapies to patients, and students learn to transform the landscape of modern medicine – all supported by the generosity of philanthropists from across the country.

Every day, City of Hope pursues new and better ways to improve the lives of men, women and children here and around the world – and have for almost 100 years.