Willie Stargell Foundation to make donation to Novant Health dialysis center

WILMINGTON, N.C. (WWAY) — The Willie Stargell Foundation will donate $125,000 to the Novant Health Foundation on Tuesday to support kidney care and dialysis services in southeastern North Carolina.

The money will support the Willie “Pops” Stargell Dialysis Center at Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center, where patients receive dialysis treatment and other kidney care.

The donation continues a partnership between the Willie Stargell Foundation and Novant Health New Hanover Regional Medical Center that spans nearly two decades. The foundation’s contributions have now exceeded $1 million.

“For nearly 20 years, the Willie Stargell Foundation has been an extraordinary partner in advancing kidney care in southeastern North Carolina,” said Laurie Whalin, president of Novant Health Coastal Region. “Their contributions, which exceed over $1 million, have helped ensure patients have access to life-sustaining dialysis services close to home.”

Whalin said the partnership has helped support patients living with kidney disease and the care teams who provide their treatment.

The Willie Stargell Foundation was established in Wilmington in honor of Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Willie Stargell, who played for the Pittsburgh Pirates. Stargell experienced kidney disease himself, making the foundation’s work personal for his family.

“Willie knew firsthand about the challenges of kidney disease, and I know he would be incredibly proud that his name and legacy continue to help others,” said Margaret Weller-Stargell, president of the Willie Stargell Foundation. “This $125,000 gift is more than a number; it means kidney patients in our community can receive the care they need.”

The money was raised through the 2025 Willie Stargell Celebrity Invitational in Wilmington. The annual event brings together celebrities, supporters and community members to honor Stargell while raising money for kidney care.

Since 2001, the Willie Stargell Foundation has provided grants and support to organizations, medical centers and transplant programs focused on kidney disease research, patient care and reducing the financial burden on patients and their families.