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Orioles Owner Donates Millions To Local Hospital

ROSEDALE, Md. (WJZ) -- Orioles owner Peter Angelos opened his checkbook Wednesday but not for a hot pitching prospect.

Alex DeMetrick reports it was a gift to help save lives.

A rejuvenated Orioles has brought fans back to Camden Yards in big numbers. It's also brought congratulations and thanks from team owner Peter Angelos.

But Wednesday, it was Angelos receiving the thanks from the staff of Medstar Franklin Square Medical Center for his gift of $2.5 million.

"I don't have a prepared statement. I didn't think I'd be called upon to make speeches. I just wanted to thank you for the opportunity to have made the contribution," Angelos said.

The money is for a new center to treat lung diseases, something Angelos is very familiar with. Years ago, his legal practice focused on the steel and shipyard workers whose exposure to pollutants, especially asbestos, led to settlements for the sick and wealth for Angelos.

His gift will now help patients like Kelly Cloman, who is at Franklin Square for lung cancer treatments.

"So Mr. Angelos, from the bottom of my heart, I am thankful to you for this new facility," she said.

The center means patients won't have to move around the hospital. Rather, specialists and treatments will come to them.

"And really streamline that and make it easier for them," said Dr. William Krimsky.

From diagnosis and treatments like chemotherapy to biopsies and surgeries with one-on-one help from a nurse navigator.

"The ability to help these patients navigate what is a complex project," Krimsky said.

"And hopefully we can do more in the future. Thank you," Angelos said.

Peter Angelos' $2.5 million gift is the largest donation in Franklin Square's 115-year history.

The lung treatment center opens next spring.

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