A Fortunate Life...A Fight Against Cancerby Kristi Krupala
Their lives have not, however, been without hardship. Fifteen years ago, Judy Smith was diagnosed with breast cancer. While she has been cancer-free for a long time, she has never forgotten the ordeal, and both she and her husband have taken an active role in the fight against breast cancer. They have supported breast cancer awareness and prevention for several years through the Susan G. Komen Foundation, but only recently became involved with BCM through Jane Marmion, a friend and former classmate of the Smiths, who introduced them to the Pink Ribbon House project benefiting the BCM Breast Center in 2004. They also had the opportunity to meet met C. Kent Osborne, M.D., Director of the Baylor Cancer Center and of the Breast Center. Impressed with Osborne and his team's work, the Smiths have contributed a total of $1.65 million in support of the Breast Center and the Pink Ribbon House. Each gift has been made in honor of Judy Smith and the Smiths' daughters and granddaughters. Judy Smith also has become actively involved with the College's Breast Center Advisory Council, which helps with breast cancer fundraising and awareness efforts. "After meeting with Dr. Osborne, visiting the Breast Center, and meeting the staff, Judy and I knew that we wanted to do what we could to support BCM's cutting-edge research that has, as its ultimate goal, finding a cure for breast cancer," said Glenn Smith. "His passion, intellect, and determination give us hope that that cure is around the corner." For his part, Osborne remains grateful to the Smiths, stating his belief that private philanthropy and personal commitment are critical to the success of breast cancer research. "The Smiths personify both these elements in the truest sense, and all of us at Baylor College of Medicine and the Breast Center truly appreciate their support," said Osborne. Breast Center an In-SPORE-ationThe Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine is nationally recognized for its efforts in the area of breast cancer research. In December 2003, the Center's SPORE (Specialized Program of Research Excellence) Grant was renewed for five more years. The SPORE, a large government-supported, multi-part program that grants funds for translational research, helps facilitate the rapid and efficient transfer of laboratory findings into improved methods of prevention and treatment for patients. Osborne's group has contributed significantly to the current knowledge base in a number of critical areas including:
For information about opportunities to support the Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine, please contact Kaiti Kling, director of development at 713-798-4058 or ekling@bcm.edu. |
Patient CareResearchThe Next Step in Cancer Research EducationHalf a Century Later... They're Still Giving Back Community ServiceFrom Despair to Hope: BCM Responds to Katrina Alumni & DevelopmentThe Vietnamese Cowboy and the Race Car Driver A Fortunate Life... A Fight Against Cancer College NewsA New Door for the East Campus New Museum to Showcase Maestro of Medicine
Baylor College of Medicine: Making a Difference in the Community
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Volume 1, Issue 3, Fall 2005 |
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