A message from Dr. John Mendelsohn

In 1999, George H.W. and Barbara Bush celebrated their birthdays with family, friends and the nation at an event that raised more than $10 million to launch the George and Barbara Bush Endowment for Innovative Cancer Research at MD Anderson. Five years later the Bush Endowment exceeded its $50 million goal, a milestone announced at the 41@80 gala marking the former president’s 80th birthday on June 12, 2004.

In this issue of Promise, we extend 85th birthday wishes to the former president and our ongoing appreciation for the Bushes’ commitment to MD Anderson. We also salute all who have supported the Bush Endowment over the past 10 years. In uncertain economic times, the endowment capital remains a long-term, secure source of revenue for the future, while interest funds provide seed money for creative research projects destined to change the way we treat cancer.

The Bush Endowment underscores philanthropy’s critical role in MD Anderson’s research effort. Your continued dedication and generous support are inspirational in the face of difficult economic conditions that affect us all.

With thoughtful input from faculty, administrators and staff, the institution has implemented a strategy to recover Hurricane Ike-related losses, weather the nation’s recession and prepare for a strong future. With heartfelt gratitude, we remain watchful stewards of each gift to the institution, however large or small. Together, we will sustain the resources necessary to maintain MD Anderson’s leadership role and continue our mission to eradicate cancer.