Corporate Partner Spotlight: Kevin Reilly

In our monthly Corporate Partner Spotlight, we speak with corporate leaders about what inspires them to serve as advocates and ambassadors for children’s health. This month, we spoke with Kevin Reilly, owner and president of Alexandria Hyundai / Genesis of Alexandria and vice chair for Hyundai Hope On Wheels.

 

Hyundai Hope On Wheels focuses primarily on raising funds for pediatric cancer research through its partnership with Hyundai Moto America and Hyundai dealers across the United States. They donated more than $3 million to Children’s National Hospital over the past decade.

 

Kevin and his wife, Mary, raised four children in Northern Virginia and are grateful parents after their first daughter received care as a newborn at Children’s National.

 

Why does Hyundai Hope On Wheels choose to support Children’s National as a longstanding partner?

 

Hyundai Hope On Wheels is proud to partner with Children's National to find cures for pediatric cancer. We value the innovative research performed at the hospital to find cures but also to find less invasive treatment options for children. 

 

I had the pleasure of learning from Jeffrey Dome, M.D., Ph.D., on how Children's National uses high intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) technology to treat pediatric cancers in a safer manner, reducing risk of complications and improving life after cancer significantly for children. Over the years, I've had the privilege of meeting many Children's National researchers, team members and pediatric cancer patients. The bravery, determination and optimism exhibited by these children is truly inspiring.

 

How is Hyundai Hope On Wheels honoring its 25^th anniversary?

 

I'm pleased to share that Hyundai Motor America and Hyundai dealers have increased their financial support in recognition of our 25th anniversary.  In this 25th year, Hyundai Hope On Wheels will donate $25 million in pediatric cancer research grants, bringing our lifetime total to $225 million.

 

Can you tell us about your personal experience with Children’s National and what motivates you to be involved?

 

There are many reasons to be involved with Children's National, so it's hard to pick just one! Our journey with Children's National started as grateful parents more than 20 years ago when our first daughter was born. She faced many challenges as a newborn. The expert treatment, bedside manner and compassionate care from the team were a gift to our family. I’m happy to report that young patient is now a lovely young woman attending Georgetown University!  

 

After witnessing the world-class care provided to my daughter, it was no surprise to learn about the innovative research and advancements happening at Children's National in other departments, specifically the pediatric cancer research when we began our relationship through Hyundai Hope On Wheels.

 

What’s the most rewarding part of working with Children’s National?

 

People and progress. I love the people I meet through my work with Children's National.  From the doctors who provide hope and healing, to the patients who inspire all of us to try even harder, it's a wonderful network of dedicated individuals. 

 

Additionally, I feel honored to witness the progress being made at Children's National over the years we've worked together. All of us at Hyundai Hope On Wheels recognize and respect that research takes time. We're grateful for the dedication of the team of researchers at Children's National and their long-term commitment to find cures for pediatric cancer. We've celebrated many successes along the way and look forward to continuing our support for many years to come.