Generous bequest to UCLA revealed

Garry Shandling left $15.2million in his will to go towards medical research, it has been revealed.

The comedian left the sum – £11.7million in sterling – to the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA  in California after he died in March 2016.

He earmarked the funds to benefit three fields – endocrinology, diabetes and hypertension; infectious diseases; and pancreatic diseases — as well as general medical research.

Endocrinology is particularly relevant cause as Shandling suffered from the hormone condition hyperparathyroidism.

In honour of his doncation, UCLA has named one of its spaces the Garry Shandling Learning Studio.

UCLA Chancellor Gene Block said: ’Innovative medical discoveries and breakthrough therapies developed at UCLA have greatly enhanced — and saved — countless lives.

‘Garry Shandling’s bequest is a testament to his belief in what is possible at UCLA, and we are fortunate to have merited his support.’

Shandling underwent surgery at Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center for his hyperparathyroidism, a rare condition that can cause heart attacks, and he was open about his gratitude to his doctors for the care he received.

‘Garry Shandling’s contribution will enhance the innovative research being undertaken by our exceptional team of physicians and scientists,’ said Dr Kelsey Martin, dean of the David Geffen School of Medicine. 

‘His generosity will ensure that we have the resources to pursue promising therapies to dramatically improve our patients’ quality of life.’

Published: 5 Feb 2019