Sid Smilove and his wife, Adda, had been City of Hope supporters for a number of years.  But when Adda was diagnosed with cancer, their appreciation for the “City of Hope Difference” reached a much deeper level.  So, too, did their giving.

Sid Smilove and his wife, Adda

“We first became involved with City of Hope through the Board of Governors chapter,” says Sid. “Visiting campus, we were amazed when we saw the progress of City of Hope’s innovative research firsthand.” 

That amazement turned to gratitude when Adda developed cancer and the couple turned to City of Hope for lifesaving care.  “City of Hope’s medical team helped her beat the disease,” says Sid. “We were thrilled with the treatment she received.  Everyone there met us with a smile and treated us with great compassion.”

The experience inspired them to give back, and they included City of Hope in their estate.  By creating a bequest for City of Hope, donors like the Smiloves can retain full control of their estate during their lifetime. Their heirs can also save on estate taxes further down the line.

“We always say, ‘If you need City of Hope, it’s there,’” Sid says.  “‘If you don’t need it, you should make sure it’s there for other people.’”