Answering the Call to Care: Pat Cortez’s Journey to Supporting Denver’s Health

“Without Denver Health,” she says, “a lot of people would simply go without help.”

Since then, Pat has not only become an advocate for Denver Health but has also made personal contributions to a range of programs — supporting efforts to fight food insecurity, provide COVID-19 relief, and bolster the Foundation Impact Fund, which allows Denver Health to rapidly address urgent community needs.

As she learned more, Pat became aware of the broader challenges confronting many Denver residents — particularly the disparities in access for certain neighborhoods and ballooning treatment costs. Because of these barriers, numerous families still struggle to afford basic health services such as dental checkups and preventive screenings, leaving them vulnerable to more serious health issues down the road.

Patricia “Pat” Cortez never planned on becoming a champion of health care in Denver. But everything changed one day in 2000 when she accompanied a friend to Denver Health, only to discover it was that friend’s sole option for treatment. That moment opened Pat’s eyes to just how crucial Denver Health can be. “Without Denver Health,” she says, “a lot of people would simply go without help.” Since then, Pat has not only become an advocate for Denver Health but has also made personal contributions to a range of programs — supporting efforts to fight food insecurity, provide COVID-19 relief, and bolster the Foundation Impact Fund, which allows Denver Health to rapidly address urgent community needs. As she learned more, Pat became aware of the broader challenges confronting many Denver residents — particularly the disparities in access for certain neighborhoods and ballooning treatment costs. Because of these barriers, numerous families still struggle to afford basic health services such as dental checkups and preventive screenings, leaving them vulnerable to more serious health issues down the road.

Discovering a mission worth fighting for

Pat’s belief in Denver Health’s mission was cemented when her brother-in-law suffered a devastating car accident after a Broncos game in 2007. Rescuers separated him and his friend, sending each to different hospitals. While his friend was taken to St. Anthony’s, her brother-in-law ended up at Denver Health’s Level One Trauma Center.

She vividly recalls how the trauma team “worked on him like he was the President of the United States.” Against the odds, they repaired his badly injured aorta and saved his life. Pat’s relief and awe reinforced what she already knew: Denver Health takes care of everyone, regardless of background or finances.

At the time, Pat worked in financial services for Wells Fargo, overseeing philanthropic initiatives. She realized she could merge her professional background with her commitment to quality health care. Across Colorado and several other states, she helped create a strategy to invest in scholarships, support safety-net hospitals, and partner with vital community clinics.

In Pat’s view, organizations like Denver Health merit broad-based community backing for the essential care they provide.

“They have big operating budgets and real needs,” she says. “They also do tremendous work that aligns with our mission to support the people who live and work here.” Motivated by these experiences, Pat became deeply involved in fundraising and joined Denver Health Foundation’s board of directors in 2010.

Turning support into real impact

In her role on the board, including serving as chair of the Nominating Committee from 2020 to 2023, she discovered Denver Health Foundation as the essential link connecting donors to tangible health initiatives. Through the Foundation, support goes where it can have the biggest effect, such as prenatal care programs, school-based health care, and mental health resources. By hosting events, coordinating tours, and inviting donors behind the scenes, Denver Health Foundation builds an emotional connection that reveals how each contribution leads to life-changing improvements.

One success story dearest to Pat is the Federico F. Peña Family Health Center in the Westwood neighborhood. She and fellow community leaders, including former Denver mayor Federico Peña and his wife Cindy, rallied businesses and community members to fund the project. The clinic offers services that can mean the difference between preventive care now and costlier emergencies later. It also provides local employment and internships, which still warms Pat’s heart.

“Seeing neighborhood kids in training to become medical professionals, working as staff — serving neighbors who might otherwise skip checkups — is incredible,” she says.

Inviting others to join the mission

For Pat, the best way to convince potential supporters is simply to show them. She often invites people to tour Denver Health facilities, believing there’s no substitute for seeing patients in the waiting room or talking to someone who just received care.

Pat emphasizes that every gift to Denver Health Foundation matters. “It could be two dollars or two hundred thousand,” she notes. Some individuals come away so moved by their visit that they choose to dedicate major funding or purchase sponsorships for Denver Health Foundation’s annual gala.

Today, Pat understands better than ever that Denver Health leads the charge in delivering emergency and safety-net services to our community. She hopes others will join her in sustaining the work — through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word. The bottom line is that Denver Health’s doors stay open for everyone, whether you can pay or not.

Thanks to Denver Health Foundation’s efforts, no one has to face a medical crisis alone. Following Pat’s example may be as simple as asking, “What if it were me — or someone I love — needing this care?” That question can spark a sense of shared responsibility, reminding us how vital it is to keep Denver Health thriving for those who rely on its lifesaving support.

Interested in helping to advance Denver Health’s mission? Please visit Denver Health Foundation’s donation page to learn more.