Decades-long City of Hope supporter Morrie Darnov and his daughter, Sharon, have generously donated $2 million to City of Hope in memory of Natalie Darnov — Morrie’s wife and Sharon’s mother.
The father-and-daughter duo worked together to create a gift that will aid people impacted by devastating diseases. Morrie Darnov’s part of the pledge amounted to $1.5 million, while Sharon Darnov agreed to contribute $500,000.
At the same time he provided his monetary support, Morrie Darnov also donated to City of Hope a van equipped with handicapped-access amenities. The vehicle will be used to transport patients and their family members throughout the campus. He bought the van for his wife, who died in late 2005 following a prolonged illness.
For more than four decades, the Darnovs were members of Los Angeles’ Gift of Life Chapter, which hosts an annual fundraising luncheon to benefit City of Hope. While involved with the chapter, the couple took on various volunteer roles and duties, such as coordinating the luncheon. A past president of the chapter, Morrie Darnov remains an active member.
The Darnovs, who were married for more than 50 years, collaborated to build successful businesses in the liquor and real estate industries. A dedicated mother and grandmother, Natalie Darnov also strived to instill the value of a good education and altruism among both her children and grandchildren.
Morrie Darnov views his family’s gift as a lasting legacy that will serve as a permanent reminder of the Darnovs’ devotion to City of Hope.
“Our contribution, along with those of many others, will bring about a happier and healthier future for many generations to follow,” he said. “With everyone contributing what they can afford, I feel confident effective treatments and cures for so many diseases can be found.”
He hopes his gift will inspire other chapter members nationwide to provide similar support. Sharon Darnov’s motivation to give stemmed from her own desire to honor her parents and their years of unwavering dedication to City of Hope. “I felt this gift was the best way to make that statement,” she said. “I also wanted to show my daughter, Remmie [Maden], the importance of giving and how powerful it can be.”
She added that her own battle with cancer has enabled her to see the disease in a different light and made her appreciate the struggles patients encounter as they fight to regain their health. “I hope that those who face such a diagnosis in the future will have an easier way,” Sharon said.
In recognition of the Darnovs’ gift, the second floor lobby of Helford Clinical Research Hospital at City of Hope will be named the “Natalie and Morris Darnov Inpatient Surgery Lobby.”
