IBX SVP and Chief Marketing Officer Koleen Cavanaugh (L) joins representatives from Philadelphia magazine to award the 2025 Health Hero Katelyn Devinney (holding check), founder of Pockets of Hope. (Photo credit: Theresa Regan and Mario Oliveto)
For more than a decade, Philadelphia magazine and Independence Blue Cross (IBX) have collaborated to spotlight local changemakers through the Be Well Philly Health Hero Challenge. The annual contest celebrates individuals inspiring healthier communities with compassion and commitment.
During the November 5 recognition event at the Fitler Club, Koleen Cavanaugh, IBX senior vice president and chief marketing officer, emphasized the power of optimism, innovation, and community spirit that defines each Health Hero saying: “Year over year, we are so impressed by the passion and grit of the people nominated. It’s encouraging to see the sheer number of nominations that come in every year… each one demonstrating Philly’s compassion and innovative spirit.”
From the hundreds of nominations received by Be Well Philly, 10 semifinalists were selected for their outstanding contributions to community health. Through online voting, the public helped narrow the field to three and ultimately chose one inspiring individual as this year’s Health Hero.
2025 Health Hero Challenge
The 2025 Health Hero Challenge award was given to Katelynn Devinney, founder of Pockets of Hope. Inspired by her mother’s experience with breast cancer, Devinney’s organization supports women undergoing mastectomy surgery by providing custom zip-up sweatshirts with sewn-in pockets designed to hold post-surgical drainage tubes. Pockets of Hope received a $15,000 donation from IBX to aid in its charitable efforts
Two other finalists each received a $2,500 donation to their charities:
- Cheryl Colleluori, president of the HEADStrong Foundation, honors the legacy of her son, Nick, by supporting families affected by cancer. The foundation provides free, fully furnished housing for those traveling to Philadelphia or Boston for treatment, along with community-building programs like family-style meals and game nights that offer comfort and connection during difficult times.
- John Matthews created Ride Hard Breathe Easy in memory of his mother, who passed away from lung cancer. His nonprofit helps patients access transportation to medical appointments, maintain nutrition, and manage basic living expenses, ensuring they can “breathe easier” during one of life’s most challenging journeys.