A family's mission to inspire the next generation of physicians
Jason Madachy was about to realize his lifelong dream of becoming a doctor in the summer of 2007. But just one month before starting medical school, he died in an accident while on a family vacation. On what would have been his 22nd birthday, his family attended the White Coat Ceremony—the formal start of a student's medical career—at the Joan C. Edward School of Medicine to accept the stethoscope meant for him.
The unimaginable grief turned into a clear mission for his parents, Joe and Dolly Madachy. Upon seeing the faces of Jason’s class as they were presented with their stethoscopes, an idea emerged. It was at this moment that the Jason Madachy Foundation stethoscope program was born.
By founding the Jason Madachy Foundation, the family channeled their personal tragedy into a mission to carry forward their son's core aspiration for others: "Excel In Leaving A Mark." Since then, the foundation's reach has grown significantly, donating over 5,000 stethoscopes to students at more than 70 schools across the United States—including Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, where Dolly and Joe present each first-year student with a stethoscope at the start of their med school careers.
For the Madachys, providing stethoscopes is more than giving necessary equipment; it's about inspiring future doctors to make a difference and be committed to compassionate care. "We want students to know they're part of something bigger," said Dolly.
Each donated stethoscope is engraved with the phrase—"Excel In Leaving A Mark." Dolly clarifies that "Excel" is not about grades, but about action, encouraging students to give back to others and not to become cynical as they balance demanding careers as physicians.
This philosophy drives their message to students: "To step outside of their comfort zone and do something to make a difference, because what if tomorrow never comes?"
Jason's enduring character
Jason was known for his remarkable character, inherent philanthropic spirit and a profound curiosity about medicine. When Jason became a doctor, he wanted to leave a legacy of making a difference.
His college years at Miami University were defined by service and commitment to charitable causes. As the philanthropy director for Sigma Pi, his ability to connect with people and motivate action led to notable fundraising successes for causes such as the American Cancer Society's Relay for Life. He also co-founded the pre-medical fraternity, Phi Delta Epsilon, successfully recruiting over 100 members in the first year. And by positioning himself outside the university student center for five days, he raised $1,200 for the Children's Miracle Network.
Jason deeply loved his family and said, "I love my mom" with every goodbye, even spontaneously sharing this affection in public, which encouraged others to do the same. To honor his memory, the foundation encourages others to record and share heartfelt video messages for their mothers while supporting the foundation's work.
