Abbott has long stood at the forefront of medical innovation and access to care. A trusted partner to Mending Kids, Abbott has helped us raise the standard of pediatric cardiac care across the developing world, donating millions of dollars’ worth of life-saving devices that have mended thousands of hearts—from Ethiopia to El Salvador, Tanzania to Cambodia, and beyond.

Their steady generosity has allowed us to focus our efforts on getting our volunteer teams to where they’re needed most, rather than raising hundreds of thousands of dollars per mission for supplies.

We can’t think of a better way to recognize Abbott’s impact and the genuine care they’ve shown for our mission than by honoring them with this year’s Mend Award. Their partnership continues to light the path toward sustainable, self-reliant cardiac care for children everywhere.

Canadian television personality, author, and culinary creative Bob Blumer is best known as the creator and host of the Food Network shows The Surreal Gourmet, Glutton for Punishment, and World’s Weirdest Restaurants. He is also the author and illustrator of seven cookbooks, including his most recent, Flavorbomb: A Rogue Guide to Making Everything Taste Better. Born and raised in Montreal, Bob brings the same mix of artistry and heart to everything he does.

Dr. Kate Zankowicz, an educator and researcher, combines her academic background with deep compassion and a lifelong dedication to children’s causes.

Together, Kate and Bob have opened their hearts and home to children who travel to Los Angeles for surgery through Mending Kids. Known lovingly as “Mama Kate” and “Daddy Bob,” they have created a space of comfort and care for kids facing life-changing procedures far from their families.