TOGETHER, WE MAKE
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 healthcare 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.
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
