Wolstein’s HOPE: Healthy Outcomes, Positive Energy
About Us
The diagnosis of childhood cancer or blood disorders can affect the whole family. Whether your family is experiencing changes in routine, loss in self-esteem or the struggle of seeing a loved one in pain, it’s important to find a safe and loving community to turn to. Iris S. & Bert L. Wolstein’s HOPE Healthy Outcomes, Positive Energy program at UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital inspires young patients and survivors of cancer and blood disorders to lead a balanced and healthy lifestyle.
Wolstein’s HOPE works to nourish the mind, body and soul while providing comfort and fun for your family. Our program offers a variety of events and activities to enjoy year-round at the hospital, outside the hospital and virtually. Together, we can bring hope to a network of families and help children develop positive connections and experiences.
Founder
Iris S. Wolstein, pictured with her late husband, Bert L. Wolstein
The Iris S. and Bert L Wolstein’s HOPE: healthy outcomes, positive energy program, funded through a $1 million endowment established by Iris S. Wolstein in memory of her late husband Bert “Bart” Wolstein, restores the vitality of childhood for young cancer survivors. The program encourages healthy lifestyles, promotes activity and teaches athletic skills. Wolstein’s HOPE programs – soccer, swimming, golf, basketball, bowling, cooking and other events – above all help kids be kids. In 2003, prior to Bart’s death, the couple donated $25 million to UH and Case Western Reserve University, lending their name to the Iris S. and Bert L. Wolstein Research Building. Iris organizes the annual Bertram L. Wolstein Legacy Golf Tournament that attracts hundreds of friends and supporters and benefits the research center. The nine tournaments have thus far raised more than $1.2 million for pediatric cancer research.
Staff
Michele Rothstein
Michele Rothstein is the program coordinator of Iris S. & Bert L. Wolstein’s HOPE: healthy outcomes, positive energy. She is responsible for planning and coordinating all activities for patients and their families. A graduate of Skidmore College, she always thought she would be a doctor until she experienced the joy of working with youth in a recreation setting. A local Clevelander, she has over 20 years of experience working with youth from a variety of backgrounds. Michele has a master’s of Nonprofit Administration. She is passionate about supporting patients and families with medical needs through creative and engaging programs. She especially loves programs that build community. Whether we are cooking together on Zoom or having fun together in person, Michele looks forward to working with and seeing you soon!
Abigail Ernst
Abigail Ernst is the Community Outreach Advocate for Wolstein’s HOPE: Healthy Outcomes, Positive Energy. Abby appreciates the ability to bring families together while encouraging an active lifestyle, utilizing knowledge gained from her degrees from Ohio University in Exercise Physiology and Dance. She loves bringing programs to life and enjoys seeing the smiles and laughter on everyone’s faces at HOPE events as families try new activities or get to share their favorite activities with others. Abby has been an advocate for inclusion and accessibility from a very young age and is grateful to continue her work in this role. During her free time, Abby enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, Dash! She is excited to be back in northeast Ohio and hopes to see you at a HOPE program in the near future!