Last week, scientists from the Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation shared demonstrations of their work with nearly 100 longtime supporters.
OMRF’s annual “science lounge” event honors donors whose consecutive giving record reaches at least five years, with the longest streak lasting seven decades. Many attendees were well versed in the research areas represented at the event: aging, heart disease and arthritis.
Retired Tulsa Public Schools psychologist Karen Dawson first learned of OMRF through a memorial gift honoring her father in 1975. In the years since, she’s paid that gift forward in the hopes of benefiting others, and she increasingly recognizes the need for biomedical advancements in her own life.
“At my age, we start to notice the changes in our minds and bodies that can be tough to face,” Dawson said. “But as an educator, I’ve seen how you can make a difference if you put your energy and resources into helping others. That’s happening here.”
Dawson and other guests visited stations featuring OMRF scientists and watched a live demonstration of a VO2 max test – an assessment of cardiovascular fitness used in clinical trials at the foundation. The test is recognized as a leading predictor of both healthy aging and lifespan.
As guests traveled between research presentations, they also connected and reconnected with those who share their passion for research.
Rita and Al Dearmon, who say they began supporting OMRF “too long ago to remember,” are among a group whose enthusiasm for research is multiplied by the community they’ve developed.
“Each year, I leave amazed by the wonderful progress the scientists are making, and it’s always even more fun to get out and see it with friends,” Rita Dearmon said.
OMRF counts 1,245 donors who’ve given to the foundation for five or more consecutive years. In total, the group’s lifetime giving has reached nearly $70 million.
“The loyalty represented by our donors is both humbling and energizing,” said Penny Voss, OMRF’s vice president of philanthropy and community relations. “Their dedication sends a clear message: Our donors believe in our mission to help more live longer, healthier lives.”
