NFL tight end and former Carolina Panther Greg Olsen shared photos of the new pediatric heart center at Levine Children's Hospital in Charlotte. The project was funded by his and his wife Kara's foundation the HEARTest Yard initiative, created in 2012. The foundation was able to donate $2.5 million to Atrium Health to help create the new center.
"The day is finally here," Olsen, who currently plays for the Seattle Seahawks, said in a tweet on Wednesday (December 2). "We are honored to offer the first look at the brand new, state of the art, HEARTest Yard Congenital Heart Center at Levine Children's Hospital. This project represents the gratitude our family feels towards the entire 'heart' community."
The cause holds special importance to the Greg and Kara as their son, TJ, was diagnosed with a congenital heart defect. Because of their personal experiences dealing with TJ's needs, they know what families go through and what special care the children require.
"Kara and I feel incredibly fortunate to be in a position to bring the center to life," he said in another tweet. "With the guidance of the amazing team at Atrium Health and Levin Children's, and our tremendous group of donors, The HEARTest Yard Congenital Heart Center will provide world-class, comprehensive care to the 'heart' community."
The center will be officially unveiled during a virtual grand opening ceremony and ribbon cutting on Monday, December 7.
Photo: Getty Images