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The Mary Claire Satterly Foundation has made a pledge to fund the Mary Claire Satterly Pediatric Oncology Playroom in the new N.C. Cancer Hospital.

On March 28, 2008, Mary Claire Satterly, 27—youngest daughter of Chip and Joan Satterly, “Little MC” to sisters, Karen (’96) and Laura (’98), and “Big Brother” Stephen—returned to her family home in Wilson, NC, to celebrate her godchild’s baptism. MC was suffering from severe flu-like symptoms and her concerned dad, a physician, ordered tests. Mary Claire was diagnosed with acute myelogenous leukemia and admitted to UNC Hospital. Her siblings rushed from around the country to be by her side.

Still in strong spirits after the first of three bone marrow biopsies, MC declared, “As soon as I get home, I’m going to comfort any child going through this!” But on April 7th, just four days after her diagnosis, cancer ended Mary Claire’s life.

Mary Claire was taken from us too soon, but her “MC Spirit!” will always live on. Established by family and friends, the Mary Claire Satterly Foundation honors this M ost C elebrated, S pirit. While Mary Claire (’02) was an accomplished advertising executive in New York and later San Francisco, she was truly a child at heart. Whether cheering for UNC basketball, reveling in beach sunshine, chasing her twin niece and nephew at the park, or celebrating all-things-Christmas, MC’s life was filled with love and laughter.

The Foundation has donated over $300,000 to UNC Lineberger since 2008 which included the funding of the Mary Claire Satterly Pediatric Oncology Playroom in the new NC Cancer Hospital. Here, children battling cancer can simply be children—something and somewhere so dear to Mary Claire.

Read about the the Fourth Annual I ♥ MC Gala & Silent Auction held in 2011.