February 26, 2026 — Cleveland Clinic has established the Eric and Lois Zorn Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Medicine, supported by a $3 million philanthropic gift from Eric and Lois Zorn.
The endowed chair recognizes Jerry Estep, M.D., division chair of Cardiovascular Medicine for Cleveland Clinic Florida, and will support continued advancement in patient care, research and education. Dr. Estep has been named the inaugural holder of the endowed chair and leads cardiovascular medicine across Cleveland Clinic Florida, with an emphasis on coordinated, patient-centered care and innovation in the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease.
The Zorns’ gift was inspired by years of care Eric Zorn has received at Cleveland Clinic, including treatment for cardiac amyloidosis, a rare protein disorder affecting the heart, as well as more recent life-threatening acute renal failure. Zorn’s cardiovascular journey began after he developed worsening symptoms while playing golf near his home in Sarasota, Florida. He later underwent quadruple bypass surgery at another hospital, followed by a rapid decline in his health, until Cleveland Clinic specialists identified amyloidosis as the underlying cause of his heart failure and initiated treatment.
Endowed chairs provide permanent funding that supports Cleveland Clinic physician leaders in pursuing high-impact clinical initiatives, advancing research and strengthening education. The Eric and Lois Zorn Endowed Chair in Cardiovascular Medicine will further support excellence in cardiovascular care across Cleveland Clinic Florida and advance innovation in the treatment of advanced heart failure, cardiac amyloidosis and other complex cardiovascular conditions.
