National Advisory Board
Frances A. Arzu, Houston
Attorney-at-Law
A native of Belize, Frances received her B.S. degree from the University of Houston and her law degree from the University of Miami School of Law. Her law practice is based in Fort Bend County, Texas. When in 2003 she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she noted as a woman under 40, there were few survivors like her — which motivated her to seek out a support group. There, she learned in part that exercise could reduce the chances of a cancer reoccurrence. She was also introduced to dragon boating, an ancient Chinese sport. A member of the National Association of Black Scuba Divers, Frances was intrigued by the water sport. Four years later, she spearheaded the creation of Texas’ only year round all breast cancer survivor dragon boat team, Pink Phurree, which has participated in races all over the U.S. and in Canada. Its mission is to enable cancer survivors to reclaim their lives, mentally, physically, spiritually and emotionally.
Lodovico Balducci, MD, Tampa
Program Leader, Senior Adult Oncology Program and Medical Director of Affiliates & Referring Physician Relations, H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center; Professor of Medicine & Oncology, University of South Florida College of Medicine
Lodovico Balducci is leader of the only existing geriatric oncology program in the world, the Senior Adult Oncology Program at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center & Research Institute in Tampa, Florida. He received his medical degree from Catholic University, Rome, Italy, and his residency training and fellowship at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi.
Dr. Balducci has edited five textbooks on geriatric oncology. He has published over 150 articles in various medical journals on the subject of geriatric oncology, and five monographs on geriatric oncology. Dr. Balducci’s clinical research activities include cancer and aging, management of the frail elderly, assessment of quality of life in the older cancer patient, prognostic assessment of the older cancer patient, and interactions of comorbitity and function in the older cancer patient. Dr. Balducci is a member of ASCO’s Public Issues Committee and Task Force on Cancer and Aging. He was selected to present the first Paul Calabresi Memorial Lecture by the The International Society of Geriatric Oncology (SIOG) in Rome, Italy, in November 2003.
Dr. Balducci was named 2003 Physician of the Year at the H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center. He is board certified in Geriatric Medicine and Medical Oncology/Hematology, and is a member of the American Geriatrics Society, the American Society of Clinical Oncology, American Association for Cancer Research, American Society of Hematology, American Society of Breast Disease, and a fellow of the American College of Physicians. Dr. Balducci has lectured ton geriatric oncology throughout the USA, Europe, Asia, Australia and South America.
Susan Bell Boykin, Houston
Senior Vice President, Amegy Bank of Texas
A native Houstonian, Susan received a Bachelor of Architecture degree from the University of Houston, beginning a career following the footsteps of her father. A member of Amegy Bank’s senior management team, she oversees the bank’s sprawling real estate and facilities consortium. Prior to being recruited to Amegy, she maintained a private real estate project management company. Again following her father, this in volunteer leadership within the Texas Medical Center, Susan serves on the Board of Trustees of Texas Children’s Hospital. She also sits on the Advisory Board of Bo’s Place, Houston’s oldest and only on-going, free-of-charge grief support program for children. She was an early supporter of M. D. Anderson’s Young Breast Cancer Survivors’ Program. She lost her brother, an aspiring Houston attorney, to liver cancer, as well as a maternal aunt to breast cancer and a maternal uncle to prostate cancer. Susan’s mother is a longtime breast cancer survivor and an early survivor-mentor to CancerForward’s founder.
Anita Broxson, PhD, MSN, RN, OCN, Abilene
Faculty, Texas Woman’s University, Nurse Researcher
Anita was a senior nursing student when first assigned to care for cancer patients. What she thought would be a sad and unbearable assignment turned into a life-long career in cancer care. She would not know then that cancer and cancer survivorship would become part of her personal life as well. She lost a brother and a young cousin to cancer; today, two young cousins are surviving a recurrence of breast cancer. A native of New Orleans, Anita has devoted almost 20 years to oncology nursing, a great portion of it to cancer survivorship issues. Researcher, investigator, author, speaker and teacher would only partially define her. As much time as she spends in educational pursuits she spends with cancer survivors. Whether one-on-one or in support groups, Anita’s survivors receive the benefit of her expertise and a dose of compassion that is very rare. After receiving her B.S. in Nursing from Texas Women’s University, Anita obtained a Master of Science in Nursing from The University of Texas School of Nursing and in the same year, became certified as an Oncology Certified Nurse. She earned a PhD in Nursing Science from Texas Women’s University, which honored her as the Mary Alice Metcalf Outstanding Doctoral Student. Her doctoral dissertation: The Relationship Between Symptoms and Feelings in Young Breast Cancer Survivors. Anita is the Former Program Director of the Beth Sanders Moore Young Breast Cancer Survivors’ Program at the University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Suzette T. Caldwell, Houston
Associate Pastor, Windsor Village United Methodist Church; Author
A 1986 graduate of the University of Houston with a B.S. in Industrial Engineering, Suzette Caldwell’s career in engineering spanned 14 successful years. In 1997, Texas Governor George W. Bush appointed her to the University of Houston System Board of Regents, where she served for 6 years. Now, an ordained Methodist minister presently seeking a Masters of Divinity, Suzette serves as board chair and president of The Prayer Institute and as Associate Pastor of Windsor Village United Methodist Church. A frequent visitor to The White House spanning several administrations, she is the author of “Praying to Change Your Life”. She serves on the board of The Children’s Museum of Houston and on the advisory board of Teach For America and the American Cancer Society. In 2004, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, an experience about which she recounts, “My faith in Jesus Christ kept me strong and hopeful.” She is the recipient of numerous honors including the Makeda Award of the National Association of 100 Black Women and election to the prestigious Philanthropy in Texas Hall of Fame.
John B. Connally IV, New York/Houston
Partner, Vinson & Elkins, LLP
John B. Connally IV is one of the most sought after transactional lawyers in the U.S., having followed his father and his late grandfather – the former U.S. Secretary of Treasury and Governor of Texas – through the University of Texas School of Law. A Phi Beta Kappa undergraduate of Vanderbilt University, John B. was in high school when breast cancer struck his beloved grandmother, former First Lady of Texas, Nellie Connally. In family tradition, John B. has taken a leadership role in the fight against cancer, following his father and grandmother in similar roles supporting M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, where the world-renowned Nellie B. Connally Breast Center is housed. But John B.’s touch with cancer isn’t limited to his family alone. The mothers of two of his best friends have lost battles with cancer, both while in their early 50′s. An active supporter of both Bering Omega Community Services and The Methodist Hospital of Houston, John B. has a demonstrated appreciation for survivorship issues.
Anne Crichton Crews, Dallas
Vice President of Governmental Relations, Mary Kay Inc.
Since 1983, Anne Crichton Crews has had a seat at the management table of Mary Kay Inc., where she has overseen the global governmental relations of a company which posted $ 2.5 billion in 2009 wholesale sales and serves 35 markets worldwide. She is also a member of the Board of Directors of The Mary Kay Foundation, whose mission is to eliminate cancer and to end the epidemic of violence against women. A graduate of Rollins College with a B.A. in English, Anne has devoted her volunteer leadership to organizations whose missions are to prevent domestic violence. She has also served communities interested in cancer-related issues. Since the early 1980′s, this Kappa Alpha Theta alumna and Junior League sustaining member has volunteered with the Dallas Affiliate of Susan G. Komen for the Cure®. She has also served on the board of directors of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® national organization, focusing on legislative advocacy in the states and in Congress. As a survivor, she was witness to her late father’s bout with prostate cancer and has supported many friends of all ages who fought battles against various forms of cancer.
Massimo Cristofanilli, MD, FACP, Philadelphia
Professor & Chairman, Department of Medical Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center
Leader, Breast Cancer Service Line
A native of Rome, Italy, Dr. Cristofanilli is a noted breast cancer clinician and researcher. He holds the G. Morris Dorrance, Jr. Endowed Chair in Medical Oncology, oversees all breast cancer care and co-directs the Women’s Cancer Research Program at Fox Chase Cancer Center, one of 40 comprehensive cancer centers in the U.S. After receiving his M.D. from the University of La Sapienza in Rome, he completed his residency at Cabrini Medical Center in New York. He completed fellowships in medical oncology at La Sapienza and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, where he was on staff for 11 years afterwards. Massimo is perhaps best known for his groundbreaking research and treatment of inflammatory breast cancer (IBC), where he combines clinical, translational and basic research to develop innovative investigator-initiated trials with high impact. He is credited with founding the highly-regarded Morgan Welch Inflammatory Breast Cancer Research Program and Clinic at M. D. Anderson. At Fox Chase, his clinical and research work focuses on IBC, metastatic breast cancer, endocrine-resistant disease, and novel targeted therapies. Widely published, Massimo writes, “The cancer experience represents an incredible emotional and physical challenge. Survivorship is an innate instinct in humans that provides mechanisms to adapt and help the healing process. Understanding and supporting survivorship should represent an important aspect of cancer care.”
Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, Philadelphia
Assistant Director & Attending Physician, Department of Medical Oncology, Fox Chase Cancer Center
The physician of many cancer survivors, Dr. Denlinger is the daughter of two strong survivors. Her father was diagnosed with kidney cancer when Dr. Denlinger was in upper high school. Her mother was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010. A native of Trenton, New Jersey, Dr. Denlinger graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Biology from The College of New Jersey and received her MD from New Jersey Medical School. She completed an internal medicine residency at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York and was later awarded a Hematology/Oncology Fellowship at Fox Chase Cancer Center/Temple University. Her professional affiliations include the American Society of Clinical Oncology, the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group and American College of Physicians.
She recently published, “As a physician, it’s important to me to help educate the local community about cancer prevention, early detection, screening tools, coping with cancer and the latest treatment methods. For those patients completing their cancer treatment, the integration of their cancer follow-up into their health care plan is important. Ensuring that patients are educated about necessary follow-up and screening for all health-related issues is key to surviving a cancer diagnosis.”
ZoAnn E. Dreyer, MD, Houston
Medical Director, Long-Term Survivor Program , Texas Children’s Cancer Center
Educated at the University of California-Davis School of Medicine, Dr. ZoAnn Dreyer is Associate Professor, Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology, Baylor College of Medicine and Medical Director of the Long-Term Survivor Program at Texas Children’s Cancer Center. The Program evaluates over 1,000 childhood cancer survivors every one to two years for delayed effects of their prior cancer therapy. Survivors are patients who are more than five years from their diagnosis and off therapy at least two years. There is no upper age limit for survivors followed in the Program. Dr. Dreyer’s additional clinical research interests include acute lymphoid leukemia in infants younger than one year old. She was the principal investigator for an innovative, nationwide treatment protocol for these infants that have resulted in dramatically improved survival rates. She is currently principal investigator of a new pilot study using intensified asparaginase in patients with high risk ALL. She is also an active member of the Leukemia/Lymphoma and Hematology teams at the Cancer Center. Dr. Dreyer is very involved in outreach and public affairs and is frequently featured in medical news stories involving Baylor College of Medicine and Texas Children’s Hospital.
Micki Fine, M. Ed., LPC, Houston
Psychotherapist & Certified Mindfulness Meditation Instructor, Living Mindfully
Micki Fine is a Certified Mindfulness Teacher and founder of Mindful Living in Houston, Texas. She was awarded her credentials from the University of Massachusetts Medical Center where Dr. Jon Kabat-Zinn founded the renowned Center for Mindfulness. She combines the practice of psychotherapy with teaching mindfulness-based stress reduction to help individuals heal emotionally and physically, transform beliefs to live more fully and peacefully and deal with stress in creative ways. Her belief in the power of one’s inherent strength and capacity for healing strongly influences her work with people experiencing depression, anxiety and chronic pain. She holds a master’s degree in counseling psychology and is licensed as a professional counselor. Micki is a consultant and teacher for two National Institute on Drug Abuse grants studying mindfulness and its effects on chemical dependency recovery and smoking cessation. She has also participated in other research studies documented in the Journal of Substance Use and Addictive Disorders and Their Treatment. She has taught mindfulness at the nationally known Omega Institute and currently teaches at the Jung Center, Rice University, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, Houston Group Psychotherapy and Texas Medical Center for Spirituality and Health. Micki’s grandmother and sister-in-law died of cancer. She has several friends who have had cancer and has taught mindfulness to many cancer survivors. She says these individuals have inspired her in more ways that she can express in a few sentences.
Michael J. Fisch, MD, MPH, Houston
Chair, Department of General Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center.
Educated at the University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Michael J. Fisch, MD, MPH is the Chair of the Department of General Oncology in the Division of Cancer Medicine at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. His clinical practice is focused on the care of international patients, minority and underserved patients, as well as the care of patients with complex symptom problems. His publications address topics including pain and symptom management, depression, spiritual well-being and survivorship. Dr. Fisch is a national leader in the realm of symptom management and survivorship care, with appointments on various national committees. When he was 11 years old, his mother was diagnosed with breast cancer, requiring surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. She continued to teach at the elementary school Mike attended and later developed a second primary breast cancer. She lived a healthy life until her 60′s when she developed chronic lymphocytic leukemia and then lung cancer. Members of her immediate family was touched by brain, stomach, pancreatic and endometrial cancers. Says Dr. Fisch, “My family experiences of loss but also prolonged survivorship in the face of cancer have inspired me. I strive towards providing authentic, compassionate care for cancer patients and their families seeking better therapies through research.”
Robert Del Grande, Houston
Executive Chef & Partner, RDG + Bar Annie
President & COO, Schiller Del Grande Restaurant Group
For the better part of three decades, Robert Del Grande served as executive chef and partner of nationally acclaimed Café Annie, which rose to the forefront of fine cooking in the Southwest garnering honors making Robert a prominent figure in the historical revision of American cooking. In 2009, he closed Café Annie and opened his signature restaurant, RDG + Bar Annie, which serves as the flagship restaurant of the Schiller Del Grande Restaurant Group, a holding of several highly-successful food and beverage ventures. Self taught in his profession, Robert received his B.S. in Chemistry and Biology from the University of San Francisco and his PhD in Biochemistry from the University of California – Riverside. Robert has received numerous culinary honors, including America’s Best Chef awarded by The James Beard Foundation. He has enjoyed the honor of cooking alongside master chefs Julia Child and Pierre Franey in their respective television productions. In 2003, Robert was diagnosed with prostate cancer. The innate scientist describes his experience as transforming him from a medical statistic of being 1 in 400 into a survivor whose cancer touches 100% of his life’s work and being. While frustrated by the quantitative results of the cancer equation, Robert declares he was fortunate in his diagnosis and treatment and their positive results. He touts the value of vigilance and early detection in beating the disease and the reward of being pro-active and head-on in meeting treatment and life after treatment.
Mindy Greenstein, Ph.D, New York
Clinical Psychologist, Psycho-Oncologist & Consultant, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Author
Mindy Greenstein, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, psycho-oncologist, and writer. She was a research fellow as well as the Chief Clinical Fellow in the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, where she co-developed the Meaning-Centered Group Psychotherapy program with William Breitbart, M.D. Dr. Greenstein is a cancer survivor, having been diagnosed with breast cancer in 2006. She is a contributing writer for the New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Psychology Today, Self as well as CancerForward.org. Her new book, “The House on Crash Corner”, was released nationally in April, 2011 and the following month featured in O, The Oprah Magazine. Dr. Greenstein is a member of CancerForward’s National Advisory Board.
Jimmie C. Holland, MD, New York
Wayne E. Chapman Chair of Psychiatric Oncology, Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Jimmie C. Holland, M.D. is Chairperson of the Department of Psychiatry & Behavioral Sciences at Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center and author of The Human Side of Cancer. She has been central to the establishment of psycho-oncology as a subspecialty within oncology dealing with the psychological, social, and behavioral aspects of cancer.
With two Fellows, Dr. Holland started the Psychiatry Service at New York’s Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center in 1977, developing the methods for diagnosing and treating psychiatric in people with cancer. Dr. Holland is credited with putting psychosocial and behavioral research on the agenda of the American Cancer Society in the early 1980s, leading to the creation of the Society’s scientific advisory committee on psychosocial and behavioral research. The Society awarded her its Medal of Honor in 1993. She also is the founding President of the International Psycho-oncology Society and the American Society of Psychosocial and Behavioral Oncology/AIDS, which provide international and national networks for clinicians and researchers in psycho-oncology.
A graduate of Baylor University in Waco, TX, Dr. Holland earned her medical degree from the Baylor Medical School in Houston. As senior editor, she published the first text on psycho-oncology, “The Handbook of Psychooncology”. In 1998, her new “Textbook of Psycho-Oncology” was published by Oxford University Press. She is co-founder of the “Psycho-Oncology Journal” and serves on several editorial boards, including “Cancer”.
S. Ray Huffines, Plano/Dallas
CEO, Huffines Auto Dealerships
Representing the corporate leadership of a third generation family business, Dallas native Ray Huffines is CEO of Huffines Auto Dealerships which operates eight auto dealerships in North Texas. His grandfather, J. L. Huffines, Sr., founded the organization in 1924 making it one of the oldest family-owned and operated dealership groups in America today. Like his father, the late J. L. Huffines, Jr., Ray was educated at Texas A&M University, of which his dad eventually served as regent. Following the civic leadership and philanthropy of his father and grandfather before him, Ray has given back to his community in unparalleled proportions. He has served on the board of The Salvation Army of Collin County, Dallas Baptist University and the Plano Chamber of Commerce and presently serves on the board of The Hendrick Scholarship Foundation and Trinity Christian Academy. Cancer has influenced Ray for most of his life. His grandfather died of liver cancer. Ray’s father died of prostate cancer, but only after providing significant financial support for cancer research to the UT Southwestern Medical Center, where he served as a trustee of the institution’s Medical School Foundation Board.
Mary K. Hughes, MS, RN, CNS, CT, Houston
Clinical Nurse Specialist, Department of Psychiatry, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
Mary K. Hughes, MS, RN, CNS, CT has been a Clinical Nurse Specialist in the Psychiatry Department at The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center since 1990. She is a Clinical Instructor in Nursing at Texas Woman’s University in Houston. She received her Master in Science in Medical-Surgical Nursing and Psychiatric Mental-Health Nursing from Texas Woman’s University in Houston. Over the past 20 years she has assisted patients across the cancer continuum in dealing with quality of life issues such as depression, anxiety, insomnia as well as cancer-related sexuality changes. She has published on these subjects and has participated in research projects on related issues. She lectures internationally and nationally about quality-of-life issues of those diagnosed with cancer. She also speaks to nurses about the importance of sexuality to help them be more comfortable bringing this up to patients. For many years she was a co-facilitator for American Cancer Society groups – one for grieving, one for patients and one for family members. Ms. Hughes is the recipient of many awards including Sword of Hope award from the American Cancer Society, the Brown Foundation, Inc. Award for Outstanding Nurse Oncologist and the 2009 Mara Mogensen Flaherty Memorial Lectureship from the Oncology Nursing Society. When Mary’s mother was pregnant with Mary, she was diagnosed with chronic leukemia but her mother was not told. Fourteen months later, she delivered Mary’s brother and died when Mary was 3 ½ years old. Literally as long as Mary can remember, her life has been profoundly touched by cancer, a strong influence of her choice of oncology nursing as a career.
Ana Lee Sanchez Jacobs, Houston/Laredo
Community Volunteer
When Tony Sanchez, Jr. — Chair and CEO of Sanchez Oil & Gas Corporation — ran for Governor of Texas in 2002, campaign followers took note of the articulate capacity of his daughter, Ana Lee, who often toured the state for the campaign on her own. The former White House intern and graduate of American University gained notice and popularity because of her persuasive nature and passion for the cause. She is no less passionate about cancer survivorship, having supported an aunt, an uncle and both of her grandfathers through their respective battles which took them from Ana Lee in the end. A San Antonio native who grew up in Laredo, Ana Lee now calls Houston home, where she lives with husband Marc Jacobs and their two children. A 2007 graduate of the University of Houston Law Center, Ana Lee serves on the board of Camp Aranzazu, a not-for-profit, year-round camp facility specially designed to serve the needs of children and young adults with cancer and chronic illnesses or disabilities. She is very proud of the A.R. Sanchez Cancer Center at the Laredo Medical Center, funded by her parents and named in memory of Ana Lee’s late grandfather, Tony Sanchez, Sr., founder of IBC Bank.
Bobby Kapur, MD, MPH, Houston
Director, Educational Affairs & Residency Program, Baylor College of Medicine
Emergency Physician, Ben Taub General Hospital
A native of Punjab, India, Dr. Bobby Kapur is a graduate of Baylor College of Medicine. He completed his emergency medicine residency at Yale University and completed an international medicine fellowship at Harvard University, where he also completed his Masters of Public Health. He is currently Director of Educational Affairs and Residency Program Director in the Section of Emergency Medicine, Baylor College of Medicine. He is also an emergency room physician at Ben Taub General Hospital. Prior to coming to Baylor, Bobby was the Director of the International Emergency Medicine Fellowship Program at the Ronald Reagan Institute and an assistant professor at the George Washington University at both the School of Medicine and the School of Public Health. He has gained an international reputation for establishing and maintaining programs that provide free health care to the uninsured. A contributor to The Dr. Oz Show, Bobby was instrumental in bringing Mehmet Oz to Houston in 2009 to lead a day of free medical care sponsored by the National Association of Free Clinics. More than 1,800 patients were seen at the Reliant Center in one day, garnering national attention and making the event the largest one-day free health clinic in U.S. history. Bobby is now an expert on Sharecare, the interactive social QA platform created by Dr. Oz. Cancer has not escaped this dedicated physician and educator. His father-in-law is a 25 year survivor of lymphoma. Bobby’s mother was diagnosed with breast cancer when Bobby was a resident at Harvard. From afar he helped her navigate a treatment path that ultimately led her to a surgical suite at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. Mrs. Kapur is now a seven year survivor.
Riggs J. Klika, PhD., Aspen
Executive Director, Aspen Cancer Survivor Center; Physiologist & American College of Sports Medicine Certified Cancer Exercise Specialist
Dr. Riggs Klika, a clinical exercise physiologist and cancer rehabilitation specialist, brings 20 years of expertise in exercise science to CancerForward. He is currently the Executive Director of the Aspen Cancer Survivor Center where he helps cancer survivors optimize their quality of life through scientifically-based physical fitness programs. He previously served as the team physiologist for the U.S. Ski Team and as the laboratory director for the CTS Performance Center in Aspen. Riggs holds a doctorate in Exercise Science from the University of Texas at Austin with a specialization in Human Development and Aging. He received post doctoral training at the National Institutes of Health, National Institute on Aging Summer Institute for research procurement. He was the chair of the International Congress on Skiing and Science in 2004 and has a record of peer reviewed publications. Riggs is a certified Exercise Specialist with the American College of Sports Medicine and a Cancer Exercise Specialist. His entire family has been touched by cancer. He lost his father to colon cancer; his mother and sister are both breast cancer survivors.
The Reverend Dr. Russell Jones Levenson, Jr., Houston
Rector, St. Martin’s Episcopal Church; Author
Dr. Levenson… Father Levenson… to many, simply Russ…was born and reared in Birmingham, Alabama. He graduated cum laude from Birmingham-Southern College, received a Master of Divinity Degree at Virginia Theological Seminary and a Doctor of Ministry Degree at Beeson Divinity School. A protégé of the Most Reverend and Right Honorable Dr. George L. Cary, 103rd Archbishop of Canterbury, Dr. Levenson was called in 2007 to be the fourth rector of St. Martin’s Episcopal Church, the largest Episcopal church in the U.S. in size of congregation. In very short order, Russ increased membership, conducted a capital campaign, and re-energized the church’s ministry to youth and community outreach. His first book, “Provoking Thoughts”, was released in early 2010, followed by “Preparing Room” later that year. Russ serves on the board at Episcopal High School in Houston, and sits on the visiting board at The University of The South. Reflecting the broadest bounds of survivorship, he writes, “I have been privileged to care for people, pray with people, and struggle with people in virtually every stage of cancer – initial diagnosis, treatment, remission, resurgence, death – and healing.” He is witness and steward to his late mother’s struggle with cancer and his father’s inspiring care for her.
Rabbi David Lyon, Houston
Senior Rabbi, Congregation Beth Israel
A native of Chicago, Rabbi David Lyon graduated from the University of Arizona in 1984. He began his studies at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Jerusalem in 1985. He earned his Master of Arts degree in Hebrew Letters in 1988 at HUC-JIR, Los Angeles and was ordained Rabbi in 1990 at HUC-JIR, Cincinnati. He has twice served at Congregation Beth Israel – as Assistant and Associate Rabbi in the 1990′s and since 2004, as Senior Rabbi. Time and again, Rabbi David offers his leadership to the community at large. He serves on The Bush-Clinton Coastal Recovery Fund for the Gulf Coast (Hurricane Ike). He is a board member of the United Way of Greater Houston. Through Congregation Beth Israel, Rabbi David is active in CanCare, an interfaith cancer service providing specialized outreach to cancer patients and their families. He serves on the board of the Institute for Spirituality and Health at The Texas Medical Center, which plays an important role educating healthcare professionals and supporting the religious and spiritual aspects of health and healing within TMC institutions. He vigorously supports the vision that medicine must recognize the role that spirituality plays in maintaining and restoring optimal health.
Cora Sue Mach, Houston
Executive Vice President, Mach Industrial Group
Cora Sue Mach has been touched by cancer her entire life. Her mother and maternal grandmother died from cancer. Her husband’s mother died from cancer. Her brother is a brain cancer survivor. She is a breast cancer survivor. Through her journey with the disease, she has observed the progress made in its diagnosis and treatment. She has observed all that has been done to help cancer patients become cancer survivors. She has observed the need to help survivors “think forward” after treatment…thus, her strong interest in survivorship programs. Cora Sue is a native Houstonian. She has been married to Harry Mach for 46 years and has two sons and daughters-in-law and five grandchildren. She is a graduate of Incarnate Word Academy and attended the University of Houston. She is Executive Vice President of Mach Industrial Group. Cora Sue serves on numerous boards including Baylor College of Medicine Partnership, Houston Ballet, Houston Symphony Society, Salvation Army Women’s Auxiliary Board and University of St Thomas Board of Directors.
Wales Madden IV, Austin/Amarillo
2 L Student, The University of Texas School of Law
Taking a page from the play book of his grandfather — Wales Madden, Jr. — Wales Madden IV, left his native Amarillo at a young age and moved to Austin to attend the University of Texas to acquire both his bachelor’s degree and law degree. In 1952, Wales Madden, Jr. returned to Amarillo from Austin and grew to be a respected attorney, businessman and prominent civic leader…a true Texas Panhandle legend. Wales Madden, IV, made his mark as a legend in a very different way. At age 26, he was diagnosed with T-Cell, Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. He had just finished his first semester of law school and 8 months earlier, married Lauren Thompson. Thirty months into 100 chemotherapy treatments, Wales completed two more semesters of law school with the prospect that he will fully complete his second year of courses at the same time his completes his chemo treatments in December 2010. With his cancer in remission for two years, he volunteers at Dell Children’s Medical Center and volunteer-tutors Texas Longhorn students. His legend is his very compelling story of living with, through and beyond cancer at a time he believed his life had just begun.
Joanna L. Fawzy Morales, Esq., Los Angeles
CEO, Navigating Cancer Survivorship; Principal, North Star Alliances
Mrs. Morales is a cancer rights attorney, author, speaker, and CEO of Navigating Cancer Survivorship, a national nonprofit organization connecting people to cancer survivorship resources. She also serves as Principal of North Star Alliances, a business and nonprofit consulting and service firm. Mrs. Morales has spent 18 years working on behalf of individuals with cancer, including twelve years at the Cancer Legal Resource Center, a joint program of the Disability Rights Legal Center and Loyola Law School Los Angeles. She most recently served for five years as Director of the Cancer Legal Resource Center, but also held the positions of Assistant Director, Staff Attorney, Loyola Law School Post-Graduate Public Interest Law Fellow, and law student extern. Mrs. Morales also served as an Adjunct Professor of Law at Loyola Law School, teaching a seminar in Cancer Rights Law for five years.
Lynne H. Nguyen, MPH, Houston
Director, Minority & Women Clinical Trials Recruitment, M. D. Anderson Cancer Center
A native of Vietnam, Lynne Nguyen holds both a baccalaureate degree and a Masters of Public Health. Affiliated with M. D. Anderson Cancer center for almost 10 years, Lynne oversees the institution’s program to increase the participation of minorities and women in clinical trials through targeted interventions that reduce or eliminate barriers to enrollment. This highly visible professional has developed a network of successful bi-lateral partnerships in as many communities as there is diversity. Her goal is to ensure that medically underserved populations are aware of and prepared for critical clinical trials that are essential to their cancer-free life and that of the population at large. The trials often include those targeted at survivorship issues. Lynne serves on the board of the Houston Foundation and is a member of Leadership Houston. Professionally, she serves in the American Public Health Association and the Texas Economic & Demographic Association. She devotes her volunteer time to the Asian American Health Coalition, HOPE Clinic, Intercultural Cancer Council, Texas Cancer Alliance and Texas Medical Center Women’s Health Network. She says, “I have observed the heavy financial and emotional toll that cancer imposes on patients and their families, in particular those who are minorities. As a professional and a community volunteer, I am committed to reducing cancer health and survivorship disparities by increasing patients’ and communities’ awareness.”
Shannon Chandler O’Brien, Houston
Community Volunteer
“I was first intimately touched by cancer in 1990 when my beloved grandmother was diagnosed…in 2001, my gorgeous mother with a beautiful spirit was diagnosed with Stage IV lung cancer…in 2004, a lump appeared in my breast – could it be? No! But, yes. That dreaded “C” word kept creeping into my life. In 2009, my 12 year-old nephew, Brian, was diagnosed with lymphoma. A child! How could this be? This disease does not discriminate. Today, Brian and I are the lone survivors of my intimate group.” Sobering words from young breast cancer survivor, Shannon O’Brien. A native of Dallas and graduate of the University of Mississippi, Shannon caught the attention of breast health advocates when her friends and family formed Team Shannon O’Brien to raise funds for Pink Ribbons Project’s Tour de Pink. In four years, the biking team raised over $24,000. Everywhere you turn, there’s Shannon….raising awareness and money for cancer awareness and survivorship. She volunteers time with Marnie Rocks Beading Cancer visiting the Outpatient Clinic at M. D. Anderson’s Children’s Cancer Hospital helping children make jewelry to brighten their stay. She was an early contributor to the Young Breast Cancer Survivors’ Program at M. D. Anderson, and is a supporter of the Clayton Dabney Foundation for Kids With Cancer. She is an informed survivor who has amassed more experiential information about cancer than just about anyone.
Kevin C. Oeffinger, MD, New York
Director, Adult Long-Term Follow-Up Survivorship Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Educated at the University of Texas Medical School at San Antonio with a residency at Baylor College of Medicine, Dr. Oeffinger is a primary care physician and Director of the Adult Long-Term Follow-Up Program, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. The Program provides follow-up care for adults of all ages who had cancer during their childhood, adolescent, or young adult years. In addition to providing health care for cancer survivors, he leads studies as a National Cancer Institute-supported independent investigator to better understand long-term health problems related to cancer and its treatment. Dr. Oeffinger’s three areas of focus are: 1) identifying the risk of cardiovascular disease following cancer therapy, and learning how to modify it; (2) promoting cancer screening, such as screening for breast cancer in survivors who were treated with radiation to the chest (a common component of Hodgkin’s disease therapy); and (3) optimizing follow-up care for cancer survivors, including increasing awareness of such care among their primary care physicians.
Dr. Oeffinger serves on the steering committee for the Childhood Cancer Survivor Study (CCSS), a multicenter study supported by the NCI that follows a large cohort of long-term survivors of pediatric cancer who were treated between 1970 and 1989. The findings of the CCSS have already identified several diseases and disorders that may be more common among some survivors of childhood cancers — information which healthcare professionals are using to determine the best way to monitor the health of survivors into adulthood. He also serves on the Late Effects and Outcomes Steering Committee of the Children’s Oncology Group, the Cancer Survivorship Committee for the American Society of Clinical Oncology, and the Survivorship Research Task Force for the American Association for Cancer Research. Dr. Oeffinger teaches residents, fellows, and postdoctoral researchers about the long-term effects of cancer and its treatment.
C. Kent Osborne, MD, Houston
Director, Dan. L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine; Professor of Medicine & Molecular & Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. Osborne is a survivor of his parents’ respective battles with pancreatic cancer. He was born in St. Louis, Missouri and received his AB and his MD from the University of Missouri, both with honors. He completed his internship and residency at Johns Hopkins and followed this with three years as a Clinical Associate at the Medicine Branch of the National Cancer Institute. He was a faculty member at the University of Texas Health Science Center from 1977 until 1999 and became Chief of Medical Oncology in 1992. In 1999, Dr. Osborne moved to Baylor College of Medicine to direct a new Breast Center at Baylor College of Medicine and in 2004 he, in addition, was named Director of the Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center at Baylor.
Dr. Osborne’s research interests have focused on the biology and treatment of breast cancer. He has published extensively on the role of growth factors in breast cancer pathogenesis, and he has also investigated the mechanisms of tamoxifen action and resistance in breast cancer. As previous Chairman of the Breast Cancer Committee for the Southwest Oncology Group, he directed numerous clinical trials investigating new treatment strategies in primary and metastatic breast cancer. Dr. Osborne currently directs the Baylor Breast Cancer Specialized Program of Research Excellence Grant. Dr. Osborne has authored more than 350 manuscripts dealing with the biology and treatment of breast cancer.
Elizabeth T. Peabody, LMSW, New York
Psychosocial Therapist, Maria Droste Services & Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
A native of Manhattan, Elizabeth Peabody is a licensed master social worker who has been associated with New York’s Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center (MSKCC) for 16 years, working closely with Dr. Jimmie Holland in the Department of Psychiatry. For the last 10 years, she has been co-facilitator of Sloan-Kettering’s Lung Cancer Support Group, where much of her work has focused on the psychosocial issues faced by those diagnosed with lung cancer. Elizabeth is also affiliated with the Maria Droste Services, which offers psychotherapy to those who have no medical insurance. Elizabeth was schooled at Franklin College of Switzerland, the American College in Paris and Skidmore College in Saratoga Springs. She received her Masters in Social Work from Fordham School of Social Sciences. Highly regarded among the healthcare community attending cancer patients, Elizabeth is frequently published on psychosocial oncology topics. She serves on the board of Maria Droste Services and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation. She is a member of the Association of Oncology Social Work, American Psychosocial Oncology Society, and International Psycho-Oncology Society.
David Poplack, MD, Houston
Director, Texas Children’s Cancer Center, Texas Children’s Hospital; Deputy Director, Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center, Baylor College of Medicine; Elise C. Young Professor of Pediatric Oncology & Head, Hematology-Oncology Section, Department of Pediatrics, Baylor College of Medicine
Dr. David G. Poplack is the Director of the Texas Children’s Cancer Center at Texas Children’s Hospital. He holds the Elise C. Young Chair of Pediatric Oncology and is Chief of the Hematology-Oncology Service in the Department of Pediatrics at Baylor College of Medicine. He is also the Deputy Director of the Dan L. Duncan Cancer Center at Baylor College of Medicine, an NCI-designated Cancer Center. Earlier in his career, he was Deputy Branch Chief of the Pediatric Branch of the National Cancer Institute, where he was a senior investigator and head of the Clinical Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics Section. Dr. Poplack is a graduate of Tufts University. He received his M.D. degree from Boston University School of Medicine, completed his pediatric internship at Stanford University, his residency in pediatrics at the Children’s Hospital in Boston, and his fellowship in pediatric hematology-oncology at the National Cancer Institute in Bethesda, Maryland. Dr. Poplack is a nationally recognized expert in the development of innovative therapies for pediatric cancer. He is co-editor of “Principles and Practice of Pediatric Oncology”, the leading textbook of pediatric oncology. He has written more than 355 original articles and book chapters in the field of pediatric oncology. He has served on many national and international committees, including panel appointments at the National Institutes of Health, the F.D.A. and the Institute of Medicine. Dr. Poplack currently serves on the National Cancer Institute’s Board of Scientific Counselors.
Angel Sanchez, New York
Founder & Designer, Angel Sanchez USA
“I’ve never talked much about cancer and its touch with my life because my story is very intimate. But, now I must. I’ve known Beth for a long time, you know. How many times has she hosted me and my collection in Texas? I can’t count. She’s a dear and close friend, but also an important supporter of my work. When she was sick, I called her every 3 or 4 days. The day she told me her hair fell out, I was very sad. I felt there was nothing I could do to help her. I design bridal and evening gowns. What help would a dress be to her? Later it came to me: I can help Beth and many women like Beth…and children…and men. When I am asked to show my collection or make a personal appearance at stores around the country, I can use those opportunities to raise money to support cancer research and survivorship. Sometimes my clients prefer that our events benefit causes important to them that are not cancer-related, but at least our discussions give me a chance to speak up about cancer. I thought my plan might make Beth very happy. And, it did! ” Angel Sanchez has garnered worldwide praise for his eveningwear and bridal designs since he launched his first collection in 1997. While contemporary and feminine, his designs reflect his training and work as an architect in his native Venezuela. His red carpet devotees include Salma Hayek, Beyonce, Eva Longoria, Iman, Elizabeth Hurley and Sandra Bullock.
Aimee M. Shea, MPH, RD, CSO, LDN, Chapel Hill
Outpatient Oncology Dietician, North Carolina Cancer Hospital, UNC Healthcare System
“Day in and day out, I am constantly amazed by the strength and courage I see in people facing the diagnosis of cancer. Some of these patients are preparing for intense chemotherapy and radiation treatments, while others are heading to life-altering surgery. Regardless of what they are facing, these patients bravely enter treatment. It is my goal to help them maintain their nutrition in whatever way they so choose. Oftentimes, when faced with a cancer diagnosis, people turn inward and reevaluate their lifestyle. I feel incredibly lucky that they turn to me for help in changing their behaviors to improve their overall health. Together, we work to come up with an individualized plan that suits their needs. Through my work I have learned so much form my patients – about how important it is to cherish each and every moment, to remind those you love how much you love them, and to make sure that you live each day to the fullest. I am eternally grateful for all I have learned while working in the field of oncology nutrition.” Aimee Shea has been working in the public and private sectors of oncology nutrition for the past four years. She obtained her undergraduate degree in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Maryland and her Masters of Public Health Nutrition from the University of North Carolina Chapel Hill. Aimee is a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition, a Licensed Dietician/Nutritionist and a Registered Dietician. She is a private consultant in oncology nutrition.
Julie K. Silver, MD, Boston
Assistant Professor, Harvard Medical School
Founder, Oncology Rehab Partners
A native of Sacramento, Dr. Silver was educated at University of California, Davis and Georgetown School of Medicine. An assistant professor at Harvard Medical School in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, she is co-editor of the text book, Essentials of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation. Julie is also chief editor of Books at Harvard Health Publications and a founder of Oncology Rehab Partners, a healthcare company that implements oncology rehab services. She is an award-winning author of more than 20 books that focus on rehabilitation medicine and physical recovery, including “After Cancer Treatment: Heal Faster, Better, Stronger” and “What Helped Get Me Through: Cancer Survivors Share Wisdom and Hope”. Indeed, she is a cancer survivor herself, having been diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 38. Upon completing treatments, she joined Dana-Farber Cancer Institute as a clinical physiatrist in the Lance Armstrong Foundation Adult Survivorship Clinic. She is currently on the medical staffs of Brigham and Womens and Massachusetts General Hospitals. The American Cancer Society recognized Julie’s work in oncology rehabilitation by honoring her with the prestigious Lane Adams Quality of Life Award. Dr. Silver’s work has been featured on “The Today Show”, “The Early Show”, “ABC News” and “NPR”. She has written numerous articles for periodicals including Newsweek and AARP The Magazine.
Kevin M. Slawin, MD, Houston
Vanguard Urologic Institute & The Texas Prostate Center
Dr. Kevin Slawin serves as Director of the Vanguard Urologic Institute and the Texas Prostate Center. He is an Adjunct Professor in the Center for Clinical and Translational Sciences at the University of Texas Health Science Center – Houston and a Clinical Professor of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine – Houston. He is Director of Urology at Memorial Hermann – Texas Medical Center. Previously, he was a Professor in the Scott Department of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine and Director of The Baylor Prostate Center. Dr. Slawin earned his medical degree at Columbia University before training in general and reconstructive surgery at Mount Sinai Hospital, New York. Dr. Slawin specializes in urologic oncology, diseases of the prostate, and reconstructive surgery. He has been a leader in the field of robotic surgery since its inception and is a founding editor of the Journal of Robotic Surgery. His clinical research interests have focused more recently in improving cancer and quality of life outcomes after robotic and open prostate cancer surgery, and in developing new surgical techniques to treat more locally advanced, aggressive prostate cancers through a minimally invasive, robotic-assisted approach. In addition, he has a long history leading research studies investigating the molecular origins of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and ways of treating it with medical and minimally invasive therapy. Recently, Dr. Slawin has been actively engaged in research and development of a new cancer vaccine that combines the most advanced biotechnologies, including cellular and gene therapy, to treat patients with a range of cancers, including prostate, breast, colon, and lung cancer. “Having performed prostate cancer surgery on over 2000 patients and counting, I have come to appreciate more than ever the importance of balancing cure with quality of life, so that patients can lead full, loving, productive lives after their cancer treatment. So I am fully supportive of organizations like CancerForward that focus on the issues of survivorship now that cancer patients, like those I have treated, are living long after their cancer diagnosis and treatment.”
Lindy Snider, Philadelphia/Houston
Founder & CEO, Lindi Skin
In 2004, the Main Line entrepreneur daughter of a Philadelphia-based sports and entertainment mogul introduced a line of skin care products tailored for cancer survivors who undergo chemotherapy or radiation. Her name was Lindy Snider, a University of Pennsylvania graduate. Her idea: to provide survivors skin care products specially formulated to gently cleanse, moisturize, and protect skin ravaged by life-saving but harsh treatments. The product: Lindi Skin. Before Lindi Skin was released, Lindy conducted research, ran focus groups and turned to her husband, Larry Kaiser, MD, an oncologist and surgeon, for his insights. She then gathered a team of oncologists, dermatologists and psychologists to ensure the products would be safe and effective. Today, Lindi Skin’s 14 products are offered at hundreds of stores and hospitals including Johns Hopkins Hospital and Health System, Fox Chase Cancer Center, and M.D. Anderson Cancer Center. They’re available on-line as well. After seeing her two closest friends plus her mother and father all struggle with cancer, Lindy offered, “You don’t lose your humanity when you get diagnosed — it’s still important to feel good about yourself.” Over time, Lindy’s business has become her passion to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. “I’m on a crusade here. I want to help people get through their treatment with dignity – to win a small battle in the big battle against cancer.”
David L. Solomon, Houston
Chairman & CEO, Condera Advisors
A native Houstonian and a graduate of The University of Texas, David Solomon began his financial career more than 25 years ago at Paine Weber. He now serves as Chairman and CEO of Condera Advisors, a wealth management firm worth over one billion dollars under management in traditional and alternative asset classes. Prior to founding Condera, he was founder and Chairman/CEO of the Redstone Companies, a diversified hospitality and real estate company whose vast portfolio includes The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa and Redstone Golf Club, home of the Shell Houston Open. He serves on the Board of Directors of Green Bank and the Houston Convention Center Hotel Corporation, and is involved in numerous charitable and civic organizations including the Owen Daniel Catch A Dream Foundation, Houston Achievement Place, Anti-Defamation League Southwest, and the National Jewish Medical and Research Center, of which he is a trustee. David is a past president of the Young Presidents’ Organization and serves on the Board of Visitors of M. D. Anderson Cancer Center. With uncommon courage and dignity, this high achiever has twice stared down his own cancer, first primary agiosarcoma of the brain treated with chemotherapy and radiation and later, prostate cancer treated with a robotic prostatectomy. His badges of survivorship also include his support of a brother and his father, both of whom were diagnosed with prostate cancer.
Julie Stachowiak, PhD, MPH, MIA, Houston
Editor & Medical Author
Dr. Stachowiak, a native of Houston, founded AIDS infoshare, a Russian non-profit in 1993 dedicated to lessening the suffering caused by HIV/AIDS in the former Soviet Union. Since its founding, AIDS infoshare has received grants from the NIH, the Ford Foundation, the Global Fund Against AIDS, Malaria and Tuberculosis and many more. In addition, Julie has served as a faculty member of the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health, where she received her PhD in Epidemiology and been involved in numerous grants, research project and public health interventions. In May of 2010, she received the “Book of the Year” award in the Health Category from ForeWord Reviews at the New York Book Expo for her book The Multiple Sclerosis Manifesto. She is currently finishing her second book for the general reader, The Diabestes Manifesto, and is the guide to multiple sclerosis at About.com. Julie also serves as chief epidemiologist at Xenex Healthcare Services. She is a survivor of her grandmother’s breast cancer which took her grandmother’s life 28 years after diagnosis. Julie’s art of communicating medical information in straightforward style sustains her reputation as a trusted resource to patients and caregivers alike.
Allen C. Staggers, Jr., Marshall, Texas
General Counsel, Camterra Resources, Inc.
“I believe that my experience with cancer has truly made me a better person. I am more spiritual, more aware and appreciative of the blessings bestowed on me and my family, more sensitive to the needs of others. I cherish life and do a better job of not taking anything for granted.” An inspiring statement from a man who has spent his life inspiring others. Educated at Baylor University and Baylor University School of Law, Allen Staggers oversees all things legal at a highly successful privately-held oil and gas exploration company operating in six states, plus off-shore in the Gulf of Mexico. Some easily could get caught up in the glamour of the job; not Allen. His life is all about service to others. He’s held almost every position of lay authority at Trinity Episcopal Church, where for years he has been a faithful parishioner. He serves on the board of Good Shepherd Medical Center, and is a trustee of The Pelz Trust, a charitable foundation. That’s a lot of commitment out of one man of a community of only 24,000. When diagnosed with kidney cancer in 2009 Allen underwent chemotherapy and surgery at M. D. Anderson Cancer Center, 200 miles away from his family and friends. He didn’t shirk his responsibilities back home. Today, you wouldn’t know he had even stubbed his toe, except for one telling thing….he never stops praising his caregivers and the survivors he met in his year at “Camp Cancer.”
Mark Stibich, PhD, MHS, Houston
Chief Scientific Officer, Xenex Healthcare Services
Dr. Stibich, a native of Dayton, Ohio, holds a PhD from the Johns Hopkins School of Public Health. He has involved in public health research and interventions in Russia, Mongolia, Brazil, Kenya, South Africa, Tajikistan and the U.S. and has been an adjunct faculty member at the University of California, San Diego, School of Medicine. Mark is a founder and chief scientific officer of Xenex Healthcare Services, a company dedicated to preventing healthcare associated infections through the use of advanced technology. He is also a consultant with Columbia University. Mark was a Peace Corps health volunteer in Mongolia from 1996 to 1998. With experience providing tailored wellness interventions, he is the guide to longevity on About.com and for several years has written and edited medical blogs. Cancer has four times touched Mark’s immediate family, in one case a recurrence of a different cancer type than the first. His personal touch with cancer merged with his experience authoring on-line medical information make him a uniquely valuable asset to the survivorship community.
Allison Blanton Stasney, Houston
Graduate Student; Community Volunteer
“I have heard from so many how alone cancer survivors feel, longing for a community to relate with others who understand the unique experience that is cancer. As a co-survivor wanting to support those in my life going through cancer treatment, I have searched for a place to better understand what they are going through.” That’s the insightful thinking of Allison Blanton Stasney, who supported three members of her family fight ovarian, melanoma and breast cancer. A native of Houston, Allison received her B.S. degree from Vanderbilt University and is currently working toward a Masters in Social Work at the University of Houston. A member of the National Association of Social Work and the Association of Fundraising Professionals, she is a former development director of Susan G. Komen for the Cure® at its national headquarters. Few at her young age are as engaged in civic leadership as Allison. Her community affiliations include Young Leaders of Methodist Hospital, Yellowstone Academy, Breakthrough Houston and LifeHouse. Allison serves as a junior board member of The Scurlock Foundation, founded in 1954 by her great-grandfather, Eddy Clark Scurlock.
Jack Unroe, San Francisco
Founder, WorkPlaceTalent
Former Executive Vice President, Ranstad, NA
Born and raised in the Midwest, Jack Unroe catapulted up the corporate ladder within the global human capital industry. A graduate of Xavier, a Jesuit Catholic university in Cincinnati, Jack began his career with Xerox. He is a former Executive Vice President of Ranstad, NA, the second largest staffing and recruiting company in the world with revenues of $15.3 billion. While at Ranstad, Jack successfully integrated Latin American markets into the company, and also held the position of President and CEO of Accountants International, a Ranstad division. Three months after losing his mother to lung cancer — the care of whom he oversaw — Jack was diagnosed with prostate cancer and is now a six-year survivor. While treatments didn’t limit Jack’s business acumen and ability to simultaneously manage two companies, they did slow the global travel demanded by his roles. He retired from Ranstad in early 2010. But, by no means has cancer survivorship stopped him. With a reputation of making small staffing companies larger, he recently founded WorkPlaceTalent, consulting with CXO staffing executives in building global expansion strategies. He has helped propel a recent capital campaign of St. Joseph Hospital Cancer Center in Orange, California, where he and his family formerly maintained a home.
Donna Grace Vallone, Houston
Owner, Tony’s Restaurant
Donna Vallone is a native of Olympia, Washington. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in Music from the University of Houston. She has one of the most beautiful singing voices you’ll ever hear. She also has one of the widest smiles you’ll ever see…and, the sweetest dispositions. Kind to strangers and good friends in equal but generous measure, Donna is probably the first person you’ll meet when entering the doors of legendary Tony’s Restaurant. Overseen for 45 years by its founder Tony Vallone — Donna’s husband — Tony’s has remained one of the most celebrated dining experiences in the world. A dedicated civic leader, Donna gives time and resources to the Holocaust Museum Houston, Friends of Nursing at St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital, Memorial Hermann Children’s Hospital, The American Heart Association Guild, and University of St. Thomas Nursing School. All that optimism and energy reflects her outlook on life after cancer… “blessed.” Cancer has existed in both her mother’s family and her father’s. Donna says the question to her was not “will I be next?” It has always been “when will I be diagnosed?” And, when she was diagnosed, she was treated with radiation and surgery. She refers to her cancer now as “her good fortune,” and because of it, she hopes to share her optimism with other survivors….as the pathway that has led her back to good health, physically and emotionally.
Carmen Marc Valvo, New York
Founder & Designer, Carmen Marc Valvo
A native of Westchester County, New York, Carmen Marc Valvo was schooled at Manhattanville College and Parsons School of Design. His professional career began as a designer for Nina Ricci in Paris, followed by a stint at Christian Dior. In 1989, with only a few thousand dollars, Carmen pulled together a collection of ready-to-wear under his own label to show at the fall market in New York. His eveningwear captured the hearts of department and specialty store buyers, establishing his Collection line as a steadfast independent brand on Seventh Avenue. In 1998, he launched Carmen Marc Valvo Couture, then and now, a wildly popular collection of elegant eveningwear. Today, his label also appears on swimwear, eyewear, lingerie and home décor. For the Spring/Summer 2005 Fashion Week at Bryant Park, Carmen joined Anna Wintour, Katie Couric, New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg, the National Colorectal Cancer Research Alliance (NCCRA) and the Entertainment Industry Foundation in the “Be Seen, Be Screened” campaign where Carmen revealed his personal struggle with colorectal cancer. Since, he has become an Entertainment Industry Foundation Ambassador, donating and helping raise millions of dollars for colon cancer research. In 2006, Katie Couric presented him with the first Advocate Award for Increasing Public Awareness given by the NCCRA. On behalf of NCCRA, Carmen continues to appear in national broadcast and print public service campaigns to encourage early screening for colon cancer. His courage to speak up about his cancer and path of survivorship has been recognized by numerous organizations dedicated to the cause and has been profiled in cover page articles in national publications.
Martha Dieste Voss, Houston
Senior Vice President, JPMorgan Chase Bank
A native of Marshall, Texas, Martha obtained her B.B.A. at The University of Texas and an MBA from The McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas. A steering committee chair of the Executive Women’s Partnership of The Greater Houston Partnership, she is one of the most respected business women in Houston. She is a board member and treasurer of the Pi Beta Phi Foundation and is on the Go Red for Women Executive Women’s Steering Committee of the American Heart Association. Martha is a younger sister of the late Dr. Mariana Dieste Mead, who attended medical school in Houston. Dr. Mead went on to become the first female chief resident of Harvard Medical School’s Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary where she was a pediatric eye surgeon….following in the footsteps of her surgeon father. Diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 1998, Dr. Mead was given 6 months to live. True to her tenacious nature, she immediately became personally involved in directing her own treatment course. She underwent countless trial procedures, some considered unorthodox at the time. Her determination and medical expertise kept her alive four years longer than expected. In her final days, Dr. Mead penned “Ten Lessons for Enriching Life,” which is a mantra still today to her two surviving daughters, her sister Martha and other siblings, and to her many survivor-friends around the U.S.
Lisa L. Wang, MD, Houston
Pediatric Oncologist, Texas Children’s Cancer Center & Baylor College of Medicine
“There is not a day in my life that is not touched by cancer. As a pediatric oncologist, I take close care of children with cancer. For me, this is not just a job, but a personal commitment to do the best that I can as a doctor and as a person to help my patients through very difficult and challenging times. For many of my patients, long term cure is not a reality, and therefore I am also committed to doing cancer research to make advances that will ultimately help these patients live a longer and more fulfilling lives. My patients give me the purpose and strength to continue doing what I do.” Dr. Lisa Wang is a pediatric oncologist at Texas Children’s Cancer Center (TCCC) and Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology at Baylor College of Medicine. She received her medical degree from the University of North Carolina School of Medicine. She is a member of the Solid Tumor Team and has a special interest in sarcomas, particularly bone sarcomas (osteosarcoma, Ewing’s sarcoma). Lisa is Director of the Osteosarcoma Program at TCCC which brings together clinical and basic science researchers investigating various aspects of OS biology and treatment, and actively promotes research and clinical educational activities for fellows and students centered upon bone sarcomas. She is also the leader of the Musculoskeletal Tumor Clinic, an interdisciplinary clinic within the TCCC that brings together the orthopedic surgeon, pediatric oncologist, pediatric nurse practitioner, solid tumor fellow, social worker, and other caregivers to decide on management plans for patients with bone tumors. Dr. Wang is a member of the Children’s Oncology Group Bone Tumor Committee, and serve as the institutional P.I. for the current open cooperative group randomized clinical trial to treat newly diagnosed OS patients as well as the protocol for newly diagnosed Ewing’s sarcoma patients.
Laura Ward, Houston
Executive Director, Houston Children’s Charity
Community Volunteer
With her trademarked enthusiasm, she was barreling through life with an unstoppable drive to help children that has come to partly define her. An elective surgical procedure showed signs that she might have cancer. It slowed her down a bit. A second surgery ordered by an oncologist proved that she did. Laura Ward was diagnosed with breast cancer that had spread to her lymph nodes. It didn’t stop her. To secure her emotional well-being, Laura made the conscious decision to continue her work as executive director of Houston Children’s Charity, a post she’s held since 1996. Amidst 13 months of chemotherapy and radiation, she planned the charity’s annual fundraiser, a big-dollar night always at the top of Houston’s most successful special events. As if the cancer or the treatments were never a part of her life, the unflappable Laura created a success and has continued since as a recognized leader in the mission to help children….both professionally and as a volunteer. For over 25 years, the Louisiana native as been at it for Arbor School, Sunshine Kids, Operation Rainbow, KickStart, Hope Shelter, Houston Furniture Bank, The Houston Police Foundation, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, The Salvation Army, Baylor Partnership and Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. She’s quick to tell anyone who’ll listen, “Need never takes a vacation. We have to keep going.” That’s the survivor in her!
The Honorable Mark White, Houston
Chairman, Geovox Security
Former Secretary of State, Attorney General, and Governor, State of Texas
Mark White served as the 43rd Governor of Texas from 1983 until 1987. A native of Henderson, Texas and graduate of Houston’s Lamar High School, Governor White received both his baccalaureate degree and his law degree from Baylor University. Prior to being elected governor, he served as Texas Secretary of State and later as Texas Attorney General. In 1996, the former governor founded Geovox Security, a privately-held company of which he is chairman. His legal prowess, sense of humor and straightforward manner have kept the Governor popular and respected throughout Texas and in Washington, D.C., where 23 years after leaving elected office, he remains plugged-in. Today, Governor White co-chairs one of seven committees of The Constitution Project in Washington, a bi-partisan, politically independent think tank established to promote and defend constitutional safeguards. He also serves as board chair of the Houston Independent School District Foundation, a non-profit organization supporting public schools. In 2006, Governor White was diagnosed with kidney cancer, which was aggressively treated and is now in remission. Both of his parents fought the fight: his mother died as a result of breast cancer at the age of 62. His father survived lung cancer, but died of natural causes at age 86.
Randa Duncan Williams, Houston
Chairman, Enterprise Products Company, Inc.; President, DLD Family Investments, LLC
A native of Houston, Randa is a graduate of Rice University and the University of Houston Law Center. The daughter of the late energy magnate and philanthropist, Dan L. Duncan, she now heads corporate entities which he led before his death. Earlier in her career, she practiced law at Butler & Binion and Brown, Sims, Wise & White. Because Dan Duncan’s life was touched significantly by cancer, his daughter’s has been as well. A prostate cancer survivor himself, at the age of 17 Dan lost his father to leukemia. Dan’s first wife, Randa’s mother, died of metastatic breast cancer. Dan’s second wife succumbed to ovarian cancer. Says Randa, “These experiences led my family to become interested in investing in cancer prevention and treatment…” And they have. The Duncan’s charitable contributions to comprehensive cancer and other healthcare institutions hover at almost $200 million. Few men or women Randa’s age are as engaged in charitable philanthropy as she. This survivor sits on the boards of The Albert and Margaret Alkek Foundation, Baylor Breast Center Advisory Council, The University of Texas Health Science Center-Houston, Rice University, Houston Museum of National Science, Houston Ballet Foundation, and Girl Scouts San Jacinto Council, among others. She also serves on the boards of directors of Encore Bancshares and Encore Bank.
K. Simon Yeung, PharmD, MBA Lac, New York
Manager, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center About Herbs Website
Simon Yeung is a doctor of pharmacy and a professionally trained herbalist with in-depth knowledge of botanical products and potential interactions between dietary supplements and prescription drugs. He manages the Memorial Sloan-Kettering About Herbs website, which provides unbiased information on dietary supplements and unproven anticancer treatments. He also consults with patients about the proper use of dietary supplements. In addition, he advises healthcare professionals on the adverse effects of herbal products, participates in botanicals research and coordinates the filing of Investigational New Drug applications submitted by the Integrative Medicine Service to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to ensure the safety of botanical products for clinical trials. He also assists in designing clinical trials to study the effects of acupuncture on cancer and related conditions. Simon received a PharmD degree from the University of Florida, a Masters of Business Administration from Baruch College, City University of New York and a Master of Science degree from Pacific College of Oriental Medicine, New York. The number of patients using complementary and alternative medicine in combination with mainstream treatments continues to rise. As a pharmacist and an acupuncturist/herbalist, he fully understands the pros and cons on using alternative treatments and finds it rewarding to guide cancer survivors in using the treatments appropriately.