UNC News Service

CHAPEL HILL -- Hailing a $2 million gift that will help the N.C. Cancer Hospital conduct vital research as a tool that will have long-term impact, William L. Roper, CEO of the UNC Health Care System, helped to conduct a ceremony Monday at which the sanofi-aventis Conference Center was named for the benefactor.

Chris Viehbacher, who is sanofi-aventis CEO, and other company leaders announced sanofi-aventis U.S.'s commitment of $2 million toward the N.C. Cancer Hospital Endowment -- which helps support the institution's clinical research and many patient programs. The company does not capitalize its name.

"This investment in the N.C. Cancer Hospital is a tremendous expression of belief and confidence in our faculty, scientists and staff, and their track record of success in fighting cancer in North Carolina and the nation. This gift will support critical clinical research and program enhancements that will directly benefit cancer patients -- both today and for years to come," said Roper, who also serves as dean of the School of Medicine, vice chancellor for medical affairs.

Roper noted that the newly constructed hospital was entirely funded by the people of North Carolina through an appropriation from the state Legislature, meaning that private gifts to the hospital's endowment directly benefit patients and programs.

"Sanofi-aventis is honored to be here today and to offer support to the N.C. Cancer Hospital in their pursuit of new and innovative research and expanded patient services," Viehbacher said. "Sanofi-aventis has been committed to supporting clinical research in key therapeutic areas with a focus on oncology for more than 50 years. This donation is another example of the company's steadfast commitment to advancing research and helping patients in this area."

"With this announcement coming on the heels of good news from the National Cancer Institute about declining cancer rates, it is fitting to recognize today that both our organizations work very hard to create knowledge that provides new hope and opportunities for people diagnosed with cancer," said Richard M. Goldberg, physician-in-chief of the N.C. Cancer Hospital. "This gift will help us do more for the people of North Carolina."

In recognition of the donation, N.C. Cancer Hospital has named the facility's advanced telecommunications Conference Center "The sanofi-aventis Conference Center." Located off the main lobby, the four-room suite of conference rooms is the hub of multidisciplinary care, interdisciplinary communication, and outreach from UNC to the state and beyond -- allowing UNC physicians to consult in real-time with referring physicians across the state.

Dick Krasno, chairman of the UNC Health Care Board of Directors, said, "We are pleased to announce that the UNC Health Care recognizes this commitment by naming the N.C. Cancer Hospital Conference Center for sanofi-aventis U.S. We particularly appreciate sanofi-aventis' recognition of the need for support for the N.C. Cancer Hospital and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center."

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THE PRINCIPALS

- N.C. Cancer Hospital

The hospital, clinical home of the UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center, boasts state-of-the-art imaging, radiation oncology, pediatric treatment, infusion and inpatient facilities. In addition, patients and families benefit from the much-expanded patient and family resource center, part of UNC's Comprehensive Cancer Support Program, which provides educational materials, counseling and symptom management services, survivorship programs, yoga classes, relaxation, an expanded boutique providing wigs, scarves and other products, and a place for patients and families to relax. The N.C. Cancer Hospital is the state's only public cancer hospital. The $180 million facility opened in August and was dedicated Sept. 15.

- sanofi-aventis U.S.

Sanofi-aventis U.S. is an affiliate of sanofi-aventis, a leading global pharmaceutical company that discovers, develops and distributes therapeutic solutions to help improve the lives of patients. Sanofi-aventis is listed in Paris (Euronext: SAN) and in New York (NYSE: SNY). For more information, visit: www.sanofi-aventis.us or www.sanofi-aventis.com.