All children need regular visits to the doctor to ensure they grow up happy and healthy, but not all families have medical insurance or other resources necessary to make that possible. The Danis Pediatric Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital provides outpatient care and other support to children, regardless of their families’ ability to pay. To help ensure it never has to turn away a child, the SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation raises funds for the center by inviting St. Louisans fieldside for Glennon Gallop, its annual polo match and party.

This year’s Glennon Gallop is Sept. 12 at August Busch Polo Club in Defiance. Along with watching the polo match, participants can choose from two experiences. VIP guests gain access to a climate-controlled tent where they can enjoy fine wine, a luncheon and auction, and Field-Side Party guests can choose to tailgate or watch from the bleachers. “Guests can expect an unforgettable afternoon featuring exciting polo, great food and drinks, live entertainment and a wonderful opportunity to gather with others who are passionate about improving children’s health,”explains Sandy Koller, president of SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation. “It’s a unique event that combines elegance, fun and philanthropy in support of an incredibly meaningful mission.”

The funds raised by Glennon Gallop help The Danis Pediatric Center provide important resources to patients and their families. More than 75% of patients live below the poverty line, and the center is committed to ensuring they receive the care and support they need to thrive. “Many of the families we serve face barriers that can make accessing health care difficult—from transportation challenges to financial hardship,” Koller says. “By providing a trusted medical home and building long-term relationships with families, we’re able to improve health outcomes, reduce unnecessary emergency visits and give children the healthiest possible start in life.”

To meet the rising demand on its programs, SSM Health Cardinal Glennon opened a new Danis Pediatric location in Tower Grove, replacing its Midtown clinic in 2023. This year, the funds raised by Glennon Gallop will go toward continuing to renovate the new facility. The project will include new clinical, educational and diagnostic spaces, creating a more comprehensive and welcoming environment for children and families. “Plans also include pediatric urgent care services, offering a convenient, child- friendly option for evening and weekend care,” Koller adds. “Together, these improvements will increase access, advance health equity and support timely, compassionate care for families across the region.”

Koller notes that SSM Health Cardinal Glennon is grateful for how the St. Louis community has embraced Glennon Gallop as an annual tradition. The event is the most important fundraiser for The Danis Pediatric Center, and the generosity of guests ensures families in need can access the clinic’s services and support. “Glennon Gallop is about much more than a memorable day at the polo field,” she notes. “Every ticket purchased, sponsorship secured and donation made help support The Danis Pediatric Center and ensure children throughout our region have access to the quality health care they deserve.”

Glennon Gallop, Sept. 12 at August Busch Polo Club in Defiance, supports The Danis Pediatric Center at SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Hospital. For more information, visit glennon.org/gallop.

Cover photo and design courtesy of SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation

Pictured at the top: Glennon Gallop supports the patients and families of The Danis Pediatric Center.
Photo courtesy of SSM Health Cardinal Glennon Children’s Foundation