A new $1 million donation will support stroke and neuroscience emergency care at AtlantiCare Regional Medical Center, according to the healthcare system.

The AtlantiCare Foundation announced the gift from the Lees family Aug. 19. The Egg Harbor Township-based network will use the funds to boost advanced care at its comprehensive stroke center in Atlantic City. 

According to the organization, it will expand specialized neuroscience staffing and neuro hospitalist coverage. Additionally, the gift will help to add patient care capacity, treatment and other clinical resources for patients who need urgent neurological assessment and treatment.

The foundation noted that ARMC City Campus is the region’s only Joint Commission-certified comprehensive stroke center.

AtlantiCare said it will also use the funding to acquire emergency medical services technology. The upgrades will help clinicians recognize neurological emergencies earlier. Beyond that, they will enable sharing of critical information with hospital teams to prepare for rapid evaluation before a patient arrives.

AtlantiCare President and CEO Michael Charlton commented on the gift. “When a patient is having a stroke or another neurological emergency, care cannot wait until they arrive at our doors. It begins with recognition in the field, fast communication and the right specialists ready to respond.”

‘A reflection of our gratitude’

The Lees have supported the AtlantiCare Foundation for more than two decades. The family gifted the money in honor of the late James Lees Sr. According to the organization, his life was affected by a neurological condition.

The family has deep roots in Atlantic County through Kisby Shore Mechanical Contractors. Based in Atlantic City, James Lees Jr. now leads the family-owned business.

“The strength of our community depends on access to outstanding healthcare and AtlantiCare continues to deliver on that promise,” Lees remarked. “Our family is honored to support AtlantiCare and the extraordinary work of its physicians, nurses and staff. This gift is a reflection of our gratitude for the care that touches so many lives every day.”

Charlton added, “The Lees family’s generosity allows us to build on the advanced stroke and emergency care already available at AtlantiCare and further invest in the people, technology and coordination that make a difference in those critical moments.”

AtlantiCare Foundation Chief Development Officer Matt Lang also praised the family for the gift. He said it will strengthen the network’s “commitment to clinical excellence, innovation and access to advanced care for the communities it serves.”