Doctor-patient relationship leads to gift supporting cancer care
As they navigated their illnesses, Jim and Betty grew close to Dr. Veeramachaneni and his wife, Deepika Polineni, MD, a pulmonary specialist at The University of Kansas Health System. "Jim and Betty have taught us so many things about marriage, children and life in general," said Dr. Polineni.
Jim even advised the young couple to pursue new opportunities in the Midwest with The University of Kansas Health System, though it meant his friends and trusted physician would move away. They've kept in close contact even after their move.
The physicians' excitement about their innovative work, leading-edge discoveries and dedication to patient care was contagious. Jim wanted to support his friends, establish a lasting tribute to his wife and advance cancer care.
Jim established a transformational estate gift, the James T. and Betty B. Anderson Fund, in support of The University of Kansas Cancer Center. Funds are dedicated to The University of Kansas Health System and the University of Kansas Medical Center to further advance cancer prevention and survivorship, recruit nurse navigators and physician scientists, and promote innovation and discovery.
"We are so honored and humbled by this gift," said Dr. Veeramachaneni. "It will have an impact on countless patients with cancer — now and far into the future."
Jim didn't hesitate when asked why he would commit resources to a health system several states away. "Academic medical centers in North Carolina have strong endowments and receive state funding," he said. "The University of Kansas Health System relies on private philanthropy — and I believe in what's happening there."
You can make a difference
To learn more about making a planned gift to The University of Kansas Health System, contact Courtney Johanning at 913-588-2800 or cjohanning@kumc.edu.
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