The Power to Heal

Leon C. Sunstein, Jr. Gives $500,000 to Establish the Emily Sunstein Laboratory for Neuropathic Pain Research at Drexel University College of Medicine Leon C. Sunstein, Jr., a prominent investment advisor, has faithfully supported numerous aspects of MCP Hahnemann School of Medicine and now Drexel College of Medicine for over two decades. From generously funding scholarships to sponsoring innovative research, Sunstein has greatly impacted the life of the College of Medicine. “I hope that my giving will motivate others to support critical medical research through their private gifts,” states Sunstein. “The College of Medicine is doing life-changing research. We must all contribute to their efforts to build a brighter future for all who seek their services.”

In 2008, Sunstein committed $500,000, his largest gift to date, to establish the Emily Sunstein Laboratory for Neuropathic Pain Research at Drexel University College of Medicine. The Emily Sunstein Laboratory will be led by Dr. Robert L. Schwartzman, a globally renowned chronic pain specialist and Chairman of the Department of Neurology. Through his pioneering research and clinical treatments with ketamine infusions, which reverse the neuropathic pain process, Dr. Schwartzman has helped thousands of patients manage chronic pain and improve their quality of life. “I was so impressed by Dr. Schwartzman’s clinical practice and research in pain management,” says Sunstein. “I wanted to do something that would make a lasting difference in the lives of chronic pain sufferers.” Working with College of Medicine Dean Dr. Richard V. Homan and Dr. Schwartzman, Sunstein decided that by funding the laboratory, he could serve as a catalyst to the progressive research underway in pain management.

The laboratory is named in memory of Sunstein’s late wife, Emily Sunstein. “Emily left such an enduring impact on the lives that she touched through her inspiring writings, social advocacy, and charitable giving,” says Sunstein. “It gives me pleasure to continue her legacy of altruism and work on a project that so affected the last few years of her life.”