Baylor College of Medicine has been awarded a $2 million donation from the Nolan Ryan Foundation to advance research and education in skin cancer and melanoma. This significant contribution will be overseen by Dr. Ida F. Orengo, who chairs the Department of Dermatology at Baylor.
Nolan Ryan, a Major League Baseball Hall of Famer and skin cancer survivor, along with his wife Ruth, provided this gift in appreciation for the care they received from Dr. Orengo. "Skin cancer is a personal battle we’ve faced, and we’re fortunate to have had Dr. Orengo’s expertise and care," said Nolan Ryan. "Ruth and I want to ensure that others benefit from the enhanced research, education and treatments we found at Baylor College of Medicine."
Dr. Orengo expressed her gratitude for the donation: "My gratitude to the Nolan Ryan Foundation is immeasurable." She emphasized her goal as a dermatologist to make a tangible impact on patients' lives through this partnership.
The foundation's donation coincides with Melanoma and Skin Cancer Awareness Month and aims to support various initiatives such as recruiting top researchers, expanding public education campaigns on prevention, advancing early detection models, conducting basic science research for new treatment options, and providing specialized training for dermatology residents.
"Raising awareness about melanoma and skin cancer isn’t just about education – it’s about empowerment," stated Dr. Orengo.
Baylor College of Medicine appreciates the Ryans not only for their financial support but also for their dedication to enhancing educational efforts aimed at preventing skin cancer's harmful effects.
