MD Anderson Launches $2.5 Billion 'Only Possible Here' Campaign to Accelerate the End of Cancer
In a bold and unprecedented move, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center has launched a $2.5 billion philanthropic campaign—Only Possible Here, The Campaign to End Cancer—to accelerate innovation, expand access, and enhance care for patients across Texas and around the globe.
The campaign is the largest in MD Anderson’s 84-year history and has already raised $1.9 billion during its silent phase. Supporters from Houston and beyond have rallied behind the institution’s mission to transform the future of cancer treatment and research.
“We are in an era of cancer care and research like no other — when the possibility to end cancer is achievable at MD Anderson,” said Dr. Peter WT Pisters, president of MD Anderson. “Together, we are pushing the frontiers of scientific discoveries, advancing new treatments for patients with cancer and creating hope and opportunity for humanity.”
The effort centers on three stated focus areas: expanding reach, expediting research and treatment developments, and enhancing the patient experience. These priorities outline MD Anderson’s planned initiatives across its locations in the Texas Medical Center, West Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, and League City.
Why Cancer Demands Urgent National Attention
Cancer remains one of the most pressing health challenges in the United States. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI):
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Approximately 2 million new cancer cases are projected to be diagnosed in the U.S. in 2025.
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An estimated 610,000 Americans are expected to die from cancer in 2025.
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Cancer is the second leading cause of death nationally, following heart disease.
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The economic burden of cancer care is substantial, with national costs projected to exceed $240 billion by 2030.
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The five-year relative survival rate for all cancers combined is now approximately 68%, up from 49% in the 1970s, but survival continues to vary significantly by cancer type, stage at diagnosis, and access to care.
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While survival rates have improved over recent decades due to early detection and treatment innovations, persistent disparities in access—especially in rural, lower-income, and minority communities—continue to affect outcomes.
These sobering statistics underscore the continued need for large-scale, well-funded initiatives focused on cancer research, care innovation, and equitable access to treatment—such as those outlined in MD Anderson’s current campaign.
Signature Priorities Driving the Campaign
Philanthropic support from the Only Possible Here campaign will fuel a range of groundbreaking initiatives and facility expansions, including:
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A new MD Anderson campus in Austin breaking ground in 2026, bringing world-class care to Central Texas.
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The Cancer Neuroscience Program, a pioneering effort to explore how cancer impacts the nervous system and develop treatments that improve both survival and quality of life.
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The Institute for Cell Therapy Discovery & Innovation, focused on adaptable cell therapies like CAR NK cell therapy that can respond to evolving patient needs.
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The Institute for Data Science in Oncology, leveraging artificial intelligence to uncover hidden patterns in vast datasets to drive new discoveries and improve outcomes.
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The James P. Allison Institute™, expanding on Nobel Laureate Dr. Allison’s immunotherapy research to develop new therapies more quickly and reach more patients.
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The Kinder Children’s Cancer Center, a collaboration between MD Anderson and Texas Children’s Hospital opening in spring 2026, devoted solely to ending childhood cancer.
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The Meyers Institute for Oncology Nursing, the first of its kind, created to support and develop oncology nurses and nurse scientists through all phases of their careers.
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A robust Patient Navigation Program, the largest in the nation, providing every patient with an oncology nurse navigator from diagnosis through survivorship.
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Blueprint for Impact, a master plan that includes the 1.8 million-square-foot Patient Care Building 1 to expand outpatient and inpatient capacity while integrating art and healing architecture to elevate the patient experience.
A Global Mission Rooted in Houston
Founded in 1941 and designated one of the nation’s first comprehensive cancer centers by the National Cancer Institute in 1971, MD Anderson has remained singular in its focus: to end cancer. Ranked the No. 1 cancer hospital in the nation by U.S. News & World Report, the Houston-based institution is also recognized as one of the top two hospitals for cancer care every year since the rankings began in 1990.
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From its main campus in the Texas Medical Center to regional facilities in West Houston, The Woodlands, Sugar Land, and beyond, MD Anderson serves as a lifeline for families facing cancer. Its care teams, researchers, and educators work in unison to ensure that every patient has access to cutting-edge treatments and compassionate support.
James L. Gallogly, chair of the MD Anderson Board of Visitors, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the campaign. “Whether you contribute your time, your talent or your treasure, you are helping MD Anderson transform cancer care and ultimately save more lives,” he said.
A Celebration of Hope and Commitment
To mark the public launch of the campaign, MD Anderson hosted a heartfelt celebration on Nov. 12 in Houston, where 750 guests—including patients, donors, physicians, and faculty—gathered for an inspiring evening of storytelling and entertainment. The event was hosted by Emmy-winning broadcaster and musician John Tesh, an MD Anderson patient and cancer survivor, and featured a surprise performance by legendary artist Willie Nelson and his son Micah Nelson.
“This campaign presents an opportunity for anyone to become involved in the world's most important and impactful effort to end cancer,” said Clarence P. Cazalot, Jr., campaign chair and former Board of Visitors chair.
With nearly $2 billion already pledged, MD Anderson’s Only Possible Here campaign is not only a call to action—it’s a promise to every patient, caregiver, researcher, and survivor that the end of cancer is within reach.
For those inspired to join the movement and learn more, visit mdanderson.org.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
