NASCAR legend Tony Stewart helps open new care center after multi-million dollar donation

A new children's intermediate care unit (IMCU) is set to be opened in Charlotte, North Carolina, partly in thanks to a multi-million dollar donation from NASCAR legend Tony Stewart.

During his racing days, Stewart was a three-time Cup Series champion, and also had championship-winning success as a team owner at Stewart-Haas Racing more recently.

Whilst he is no longer involved in NASCAR, Stewart remains a firm fan favorite, and now, he is making a huge impact off the track in the Charlotte area.

Tony Stewart helps children's hospital

Novant Health has announced that Hemby Children’s Hospital has begun construction on the Tony Stewart Intermediate Care Unit, with Stewart having made a $2.25 million donation to the cause.

An official Novant Health statement explains: "The pediatric intermediate care unit (IMCU) will bridge the gap between the PICU and Novant Health Hemby Children's Hospital's general unit, ensuring a smooth transition and continuity of care, while reserving resources in the PICU for the sickest children in our community.

"The unit will have the same leading-edge equipment available in the PICU and has an increased nurse-to-patient ratio to meet the unique needs of the patient population.

"A study by the Society of Critical Care Medicine shows the specialized care given in an intermediate care unit can significantly reduce the likelihood of readmission."

The project is expected to be completed in 2026 and is a part of the broader multiphase expansion to Novant Health Hemby Children's Hospital.

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Stewart: This is a win for the Charlotte community

Speaking as part of the announcement, Stewart himself reflected on how becoming a father had made him appreciate health care workers even more, and stated this was a win for the local community.

“The Charlotte area is where I spent nearly 20 years of my racing career, and in that time, I watched friends get married and become parents, and I saw their children grow up," Stewart explained.

"The health of their child became their No. 1 priority, and as a new dad, that’s a responsibility I carry with tremendous pride. It’s given me a new appreciation for our health care workers and especially those caring for young children.

“The Charlotte region continues to grow, and the IMCU at Novant Health Hemby Children’s Hospital is here to help handle this growth so that more kids can thrive.

"This is a win for the community and the thousands of pediatric patients in need of advanced care.”