Anyone who has been a patient or caregiver of a patient at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center knows how much the little things can mean — a warmed blanket, the soothing presence of an aquarium, educational materials explaining the journey. Many of those comforting amenities are provided through the Volunteer Endowment for Patient Support (VEPS).
That organization enjoyed a windfall at River Oaks Country Club on Wednesday when the annual luncheon raised $835,000. Special thanks to lead underwriters Rania and Jamal Daniel. Since its founding in 1991, VEPS has disbursed $2.2 million in interest-generated funds to programs aimed at improving the quality of cancer patients and their families. The focus of those programs includes social, emotional, recreational, educational and comfort needs of patients and their families.
Kathy and Jeff Love chaired the benefit which was attended by 400 supporters. In addition to the Loves, the program included remarks by M.D. Anderson president Dr. Ron DePinho, Volunteer Services director Susan French and keynote speaker Dr. Paul Mansfield, vice president of Acute Care Services and professor of surgical oncology.
Among those applauding the VEPS efforst were Regina Rogers, Benton Love, Ashlee Brown, Christine Mansfield, Kay Kanaby, Kate Kanaby, Mel Klein, Patrick Mulvy, Joyce and Mike Ahearn, Ginger Blanton, Sarah Joseph, Linda Gale White, Kathy Goossen, Alice Burguieres and Denise Monteleone.
Ashlee Brown, from left, Benton Love and Kathy and Jeff Love.
