A message from Dr. DePinho

A word from the president.

Thank you for being a friend

Promise readers personify the words “philanthropy in action.” Whether you contribute financial resources to MD Anderson or devote your time and talents, you play a vital role in the institution’s mission to eradicate cancer. Your generosity helps turn novel ideas into lifesaving innovations for the prevention, early detection and treatment of cancer for millions around the world and for generations to come. Your kindness truly makes a difference in the lives of the patients we directly serve, which last year totaled 122,000. We’re enormously grateful for your support.

Fiscal Year 2014 has so far been no exception. During the first quarter, for example, donors across the country and beyond our borders worked with MD Anderson to plan, promote and produce A Conversation With a Living Legend^® events in Dallas, San Antonio and Washington, D.C. These efforts alone boosted cancer research and patient care initiatives by almost $6 million and generated local, national and international awareness of the unparalleled accomplishments and capabilities of the nation’s premier cancer center.

Meanwhile, across the country, some 38 third-party events, from bake sales to bike rides, raised funds and awareness to honor loved ones and to accelerate our determined fight against cancer. The value of these grassroots efforts is immeasurable, and we’re humbled at the selfless commitment of so many.

Whatever the venue or the fundraising goal, friends of MD Anderson share a common bond with each of us at this remarkable institution. Ultimately, everything we do is for our patients. Their courage inspires us and fuels our quest for a future free of cancer. Thank you for joining us in Making Cancer History^®.

"Ultimately, everything we do is for our patients. Their courage inspires us and fuels our quest for a future free of cancer."

Ronald DePinho, M.D.

president

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Angel "Angie" Jimenez, 82, is the founder and former owner of Mclean Cargo Specialists, an international freight forwarding and export packer. An active community volunteer, he served as the Rotary Club of Houston's president in 2012-2013, the organization's centennial year. Jimenez came to MD Anderson as a prostate cancer patient seven years ago and later was treated for bladder cancer. He's proud that, with the help of "MD Anderson's great Urology team," he's a two-time survivor.

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Donald Lowd is a retired Air Force veteran whose civilian career landed him at a retina practice in Houston. Diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2009, he refused to accept the dismal odds he was initially given. He turned instead to MD Anderson and Christopher Logothetis, M.D., chair of Genitourinary Medical Oncology, to help him win "the Super Bowl of life."