Philanthropist Allison Mignone has turned her triple-negative breast cancer diagnosis into a landmark investment in women’s health. She and her husband, Roberto, donated $50 million to transform NYU Langone’s East 53rd Street Ambulatory Care Center into the Mignone Women’s Health Collaborative, with an additional $10 million from Citadel founder Ken Griffin establishing the Griffin Healthspan and Vitality Center. Construction begins next year, promising a revolutionary approach to women’s care.
A Holistic Approach: 125 Experts, 20 Specialties, No Silos
“My vision is for women to be seen,” Mignone told The Post, addressing a common frustration in healthcare: rushed appointments and overlooked symptoms. The collaborative unites 125 providers across 20 fields—from preventive care and pregnancy support to midlife health and fibroid treatment—breaking down traditional medical silos. “You’ll receive holistic care, not fragmented services,” Mignone emphasized.
The initiative integrates the existing Joan H. Tisch Center for Women’s Health (founded in 2011) and adds cutting-edge services: advanced imaging, MRI scans for muscle/fat analysis, longevity screenings, and clinical trial access for high-risk patients. The second-floor Griffin Center will focus on active aging, offering nutrition coaching, wellness classes, and therapy for caregiving stress and burnout.
From Personal Journey to Public Impact
Three years ago, Mignone’s aggressive breast cancer diagnosis led her to NYU Langone surgeons Deborah Axelrod (who removed the tumor) and Mihye Choi (who balanced her left breast cosmetically). “I was lucky to have resources and top doctors,” she said, “but many women lack support, clear plans, and holistic care. That’s not fair.”
As a mother of four daughters, Mignone aims to redefine women’s healthcare. Breast oncologist Dr. Elizabeth Comen, co-director of the collaborative, highlights its practical approach: “We’ll teach women how to exercise properly, what 4 ounces of chicken really looks like—evidence-based advice, not vague ‘limit carbs’ statements.”
Revolutionizing Research and Education
The collaborative will also develop new women’s health curricula at NYU Grossman School of Medicine, addressing historical neglect that has caused delayed diagnoses and poor outcomes. “Every generation should live longer, healthier lives than the last,” Mignone stated.
Ken Griffin echoed this vision in a statement, noting the initiative’s focus on “physical vitality, movement science, and mental health to extend healthy lifespans.” The project marks a shift from reactive treatment to proactive, whole-person care for women of all ages.
Life Tips for Women:
- Seek integrated care: Choose providers who coordinate across specialties, not isolated departments.
- Prioritize preventive screenings: Use tools like advanced imaging to catch risks early.
- Embrace holistic wellness: Engage in nutrition, exercise, and mental health support as part of routine care.
This $60 million initiative isn’t just a healthcare upgrade—it’s a paradigm shift, putting women’s full-spectrum health needs at the center of medical innovation. As Mignone hopes, it will ensure every woman feels “seen, heard, and comprehensively cared for” throughout her life.
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