Turning Fear into Fight

Behind every cancer treatment breakthrough is a physician-scientist who cares for patients while leading research that advances medicine. These specialists bridge discoveries in the lab and care in the clinic, but their numbers are declining due to medical school debt and reductions in federal research funding. To address this challenge, Baylor is launching the Physician-Scientist Scholars in Cancer Program, which will recruit top talent by providing competitive salaries, lab resources and two to three years of research funding, enabling them to develop new treatments while caring for patients.

For many patients, surviving cancer is only the beginning. Long after treatment ends, survivors may face lasting physical, cognitive and emotional challenges that require specialized care. To meet these needs, Baylor is creating the Center for Cancer Health, which will provide personalized survivorship care, support services and advanced monitoring for cancer recurrence. The Center will also house a first-of-its-kind Immunotherapy Toxicity Center focused on understanding and reducing treatment side effects, while bringing survivors together through reunions and educational programs that foster community, hope and resilience.

At the Duncan Cancer Center, promising discoveries have the potential to transform cancer care, but moving them from the lab to patients requires early investment. Philanthropy provides critical support for innovative, high-risk research, helps recruit and retain leading cancer scientists, and equips laboratories with the resources needed to advance breakthroughs. Donor support also helps Baylor leverage renewed funding from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) for its Comprehensive Cancer Training Program, which develops the next generation of cancer researchers. Because CPRIT grants require matching support, philanthropic gifts unlock additional funding and amplify Baylor’s impact in cancer care and research.