Washington, D.C. – One year after his untimely passing on July 28, 2018, Shady Grove Fertility (SGF) and the fertility community continue to honor the legacy of Stephen J. Greenhouse, M.D., a longtime SGF physician and respected leader within the fertility community.
SGF physicians, team members, referring physicians, and members of the fertility community recently commemorated the 1-year anniversary of the full-service procedure center opening in Fairfax, Virginia—whose vision for building was brought to life by none other than the late Dr. Greenhouse. To recognize the success of its inaugural year and honor his tireless efforts lobbying in support of the build, SGF held a dedication ceremony in his loving memory. Over 100 people attended, including Dr. Greenhouse’s wife, three sons, parents, sister, fellow SGF physicians, staff members, and referring physicians.
“He was incredibly proud of the work that was done by the team in bringing this project to fruition, which is why this dedication of the ASC [ambulatory surgery center] in his memory is so fitting,” says Mark Segal, Chief Executive Officer of SGF. “For the many patients whose lives he touched, as an amazing physician in practice for more than 20 years, for the thousands more who’ll be seen for the years to come, his spiritual presence will always be a factor that will continue to drive our success and live in our hearts for many generations,” says Segal.
Robyn, Dr. Greenhouse’s wife, added, “I hope each time you mention the surgery center and each time you pass by the soon-to-be-revealed sign, you will think of Stephen. I hope you will remember his smile and his compassion for all of Shady Grove Fertility’s patients, and his love for his fellow workers and physicians. I hope these memories will make your day a little brighter. From all of us, his family, we thank you for this incredible legacy.”
During the dedication ceremony, Paulette Browne, M.D., Dr. Greenhouse’s former colleague and dear friend, unveiled a plaque and shadow box of Dr. Greenhouse’s lab coat, displayed in the entrance of the Fairfax Procedure Center.
A shadow box of Dr. Greenhouse’s lab coat was also presented to the Fair Oaks, VA office, where he primarily saw patients, and to his wife, Robyn.
“As each patient passes through our doors for every procedure, egg retrieval, and embryo transfer, they will know and feel the legacy of Dr. Stephen Greenhouse,” adds Segal.
“Dr. Greenhouse is remembered at SGF and in the Washington, D.C. medical community by the thousands of lives he touched in both small and large ways. His passion for medicine and for his patients was a driving force behind Steve’s professional life. His patients appreciated his expertise and loved him for his generosity of time and attention during a difficult period in their lives. His SGF family has known him as a kind and humorous leader, who always put the well-being of patients and staff first. He was a tireless supporter of SGF’s practice culture, demonstrating our commitment to patient care with words and actions,” said SGF Chief Medical Officer, Eric A. Widra, M.D., at the time of Dr. Greenhouse’s passing.
The Tinina Q. Cade Foundation Establishes the Dr. Stephen Greenhouse Grant
In 2018, the physicians, staff, and patients of SGF established the Dr. Stephen Greenhouse Grant through the Tinina Q. Cade Foundation. This grant, specifically designated for an SGF patient, is held to honor the memory and legacy of Dr. Greenhouse.
“Dr. Greenhouse was a strong supporter of our Foundation and attended many Cade Foundation events with his family over the years. He was a role model and leader within our community, and someone whom thousands admired for his commitment to helping build families,” said Camille Hammond, M.D., M.P.H., CEO and Founder of the Cade Foundation, which was created in 2005 to provide support to families with infertility.
“Among the reasons this honor is so fitting is because anyone who had the privilege of knowing Dr. Greenhouse knows how endlessly and tirelessly, he devoted his life’s work to the benefit of his patients,” says SGF physician and Cade Foundation Board Member, Dr. Frank Chang.
To make a contribution in support of the grant, please visit the Dr. Stephen Greenhouse Grantfundraising site.
Hundreds of Heartfelt Tributes Pour in from Former Patients, Colleagues, and Friends
When the news broke of Dr. Greenhouse’s passing, hundreds of comments and tributes poured in with the sincerest condolences, fondest memories, and utmost gratitude from former patients for making their dreams of parenthood into a reality.
A past patient wrote, “His name in our house was synonymous with Hero. There’s no other way to say it. He threw me a lifeline during one of my darkest hours and I will forever be thankful that he did as he promised and never let go of his end. His commitment to us was palpable. His compassion knew no bounds. We knew it from the moment we met him we had the best possible doctor in our corner. And boy did he deliver. Our girls are 8 years old now and there isn’t a day that goes by I don’t hit my knees thankful for the gift of being their Mommy. We will never forget you, Dr. Greenhouse. You blessed thousands and thousands of lives by just being you.”
“Dr. Greenhouse was such a kind, thoughtful, patient and extremely experienced doctor who helped grow our family. Our hearts are breaking to read this news. Please know his memory will forever live on through all of the miracle babies he helped create. God bless his family, colleagues and every family who was so blessed to be touched by this special man,” added another patient.
A former patient and colleague said, “By far one of the most devastating losses for our whole community of patients, professionals and his family. Steve was an absolute joy to be around and his passion for his family and patients was so genuine. As a former patient, colleague, and friend I know firsthand how impactful this loss is going to be. Thoughts and prayers to all his family including the wonderful people at SGF.”
Patients and friends may leave a tribute in honor of Dr. Greenhouse.
About Shady Grove Fertility (SGF)
SGF is a leading fertility and IVF center of excellence with more than 85,000 babies born and counting. With 36 locations throughout FL, GA, MD, NY, PA, VA, D.C., and Santiago, Chile, we offer patients individualized care, accept most insurance plans, and make treatment affordable through innovative financial options, including treatment guarantees. More physicians refer their patients to SGF than any other center. Call 1-888-761-1967 or visit ShadyGroveFertility.com.
