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TOGETHER, WE MAKE

hope a possibility and healing a reality


ABOUT US

Founded with a mission to remove obstacles to treatment, First Hand Foundation puts that vision into action—helping uninsured and underinsured children access essential medical care.

We provide individual medical grants and partner with trusted health care organizations to offer financial support and connect families with the resources and care they need.

Thanks to the generosity of donors, the dedication of volunteers, and the commitment of community partners, we make hope a possibility and healing a reality. 

A Vision of Care. A Legacy of Impact.

First Hand Foundation was born from Jeanne Patterson’s deep empathy and unwavering belief that every child deserves access to essential medical care. Determined to eliminate financial barriers for families in crisis, she set out to turn that vision into reality.

In partnership with her husband, Cerner Corporation co-founder Neal Patterson, and Cerner co-founder Cliff Illig, Jeanne founded First Hand Foundation in 1995 to provide direct, timely medical assistance to children in need. Their shared commitment formed the roots for a nonprofit built not just on generosity, but on action, ensuring families facing medical hardships had a path to hope and healing.

Since its inception, First Hand has awarded medical grants to thousands of children across the country, providing critical support for surgeries, prescriptions, medical equipment, and travel expenses. Beyond funding treatments, the Foundation has offered something even more powerful—peace of mind for families navigating complex and overwhelming healthcare challenges.

Jeanne’s legacy of compassion and action continues to inspire our mission today. As we relaunch First Hand Foundation in 2025, we remain committed to breaking down barriers, forging new partnerships, and ensuring that children receive the healthcare they deserve.

It’s all about knowing what’s the right thing to do.

– Jeanne Lillig-Patterson

OUR TEAM

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This role is deeply meaningful to me because I’ve seen firsthand how life-changing access to health care can be for a child and their family. As a nurse, I bring a personal understanding of the health care journey—making this work not only more impactful, but deeply human—ensuring every child has the opportunity to heal, grow, and thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

Mollie Robinson RN, BSN

PRESIDENT
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I’m committed to breaking down the barriers that stand between a child and the care they need, because every child deserves access to health care, regardless of their circumstances. I spent years as a pediatric patient, watching my parents navigate a complex system to advocate for me. Now, as a parent myself, I carry that perspective into this work every day, building programs that ensure all children experience a childhood full of joy, health, and opportunity.

Meghan Brown

Director of Programs
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I’ve spent years working in the health care industry alongside dedicated professionals who want nothing more than to provide the best care possible. Yet every day, I’ve seen how systemic hurdles stand in their way—and in the way of the children and families who need support the most. My work is driven by a commitment to breaking down those barriers, restoring the true purpose of health care: caring for people. I strive to create pathways that ensure children across our communities receive the services, support, and opportunities they deserve, no matter their circumstances. 

Olivia Eggleston White

Grant Coordinator

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Cortney Patterson Barton

Dan Devers

Maureen Evans

Mig Lillig

Jeannine Midgett

Clay Patterson

Will Patterson

Megan Pence

Lindsey Patterson Smith

Julie Wilson

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