iPromise
Cancer survivor Estela Avery is a San Antonio native, a former nurse, an avid fundraiser and executive director of the San Antonio River Foundation. She supports MD Anderson's orbital oncology/ophthalmic plastic surgery program in recognition of Bita Esmaeli, M.D., professor, Ophthalmic Plastic Surgery. Here, she reflects on her cancer experience and the importance of giving.
I was struck by the kindness that was all around me at MD Anderson, the compassion and the patience. I thought, they see thousands of people, but when you're sitting in front of them and they're taking their time with you, you are the only patient. Right away I knew this was a great place to be and it was a great place to support.
I think we all take for granted that somebody else is in charge of giving, somebody else is in charge of supporting, somebody else is going to make this happen. That somebody else is you.
A great legacy is to know that you've helped along the way and made a difference in society, your community, maybe that one special person out there. For me, giving is a gift right back.
Do you promise? Tell us why you're committed to Making Cancer History® by sending an email to promise@mdanderson.org.