In 2021, my family faced a profound journey when my mother was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Witnessing her journey through a yearlong trial at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, where she achieved remission, underscored the profound impact of medical innovation and compassionate care. Today, I have the privilege of serving as Assistant Vice President of Strategic Partnerships & Senior Philanthropic Advisor at MD Anderson. In this role, I lead strategic efforts aimed at expanding MD Anderson’s presence in Austin. Collaborating closely with President Peter WT Pisters, M.D., and stakeholders across MD Anderson and The University of Texas System, my focus is on helping to secure philanthropic support for the upcoming MD Anderson Cancer Center Austin, while also enhancing community engagement, forging strategic partnerships, and elevating MD Anderson's visibility in the community. Together, we hope to cultivate meaningful relationships, advocate for institutional needs, and drive philanthropic efforts to advance MD Anderson’s mission. At MD Anderson, our core values of Caring, Integrity, Discovery, Safety, and Stewardship guide everything we do. These values are the foundation of our mission to eliminate cancer in Texas, the nation and the world through exceptional programs that integrate patient care, research and prevention.