• Giving back to Mayo Clinic

"When somebody saves your life, that's something that sticks with you for the rest of your life." Powerful words from Sandy Pobanz, a long-time patient and volunteer at Mayo Clinic.

The Pobanz family, from Moline, Ill., began traveling to Mayo Clinic in 1942 when Sandy's father, Wilbur, sought care for a serious heart condition that threatened his life. Mayo physicians diagnosed and successfully treated Wilbur. Since then, the Pobanz family has turned to Mayo countless times.

Recently, Sandy's parents passed away and she shares how they decided to give back to Mayo Clinic by making a generous gift. Their contribution funds a pre-doctoral scholarship - an opportunity to educate future health care providers.

Sandy's dedication to Mayo continues today. She shares how she relocated from Illinois to seek her medical care and serve as volunteer in warmer weather in Scottsdale, Ariz. As a patient at the Medallion Program and as a volunteer both at the Pain Clinic and the Caring Canine program, Sandy says, "I'm proud to be a part of the Mayo family."