Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Center

07/30/2025

📌 Our recent announcement of the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center garnered widespread coverage—click to see the media roundup and learn more about this historic collaboration:🔗 https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/health-briefs/kinder-childrens-cancer-center-announcement-sparks-widespread-media-coverage

Opening in 2026, the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center is a joint initiative between Texas Children's Hospital and the The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center. It will be the largest pediatric cancer and hematology center in the nation, uniting inpatient care, outpatient services and groundbreaking research for children with cancer and blood disorders. 💖🏥

The stories featured in this roundup highlight the vision behind the center, the generosity of the Kinder Foundation, and the impact this will have on families in Houston and beyond. Learn more about the Kinder Children's Cancer Center: https://kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/29/2025

🎉 It’s a pleasure to announce the latest Texas Children's Cancer & Hematology Bravo Award winners! Each quarter, these awards recognize staff who go above and beyond for patients & colleagues. Read more about our incredible winners below (pictured, L-R top to bottom rows):

★ Lissette Artie, RN, Main Campus: As a Nurse Coordinator for our lymphoma team, Lissette assists our patients and clinical teams with exceptional dedication, kindness and professionalism. She also recently received our 2025 Fellows’ Award for Most Outstanding Nurse, and was named one of Houston’s Top 200 Nurses by the Houston Chronicle.

★ Sara Bennett, RN, Main Campus: Sara exemplifies professionalism and leadership in her role as a patient educator. She goes above and beyond to ensure patients and families fully understand complex diagnoses and treatment plans. Her advocacy and dedication to patient empowerment make her an irreplaceable part of our team.

★ Patty Chupin, RN, The Woodlands: Patty supports both Hematology and Oncology patients. She is known for her proactive approach to patient care and her unwavering commitment to ensuring that patients and families feel supported, informed and heard. Her behind-the-scenes problem-solving and seamless collaboration with the care team ensure smooth clinic operations and exceptional patient care. She’s truly a rock star!

★ Claudia Contreras, RN, West Campus: Claudia is known for her positivity, compassion, and her constant willingness to step in and support others whenever needed. Her bilingual skills provide Spanish-speaking families with comfort and clarity, making our team stronger and more connected every day. She truly brings out the best in her team members.

★ Mackenzie Shupp, CCLS, Main Campus: Mackenzie’s creativity and resourcefulness shine in her work with patients. From developing patient-friendly treatment roadmaps to supporting multidisciplinary teams, she ensures children are informed and empowered throughout their care journey.

★ Arlene Victoria, Medical Assistant, McAllen: Arlene is a calm, reliable leader at the Vannie Cook Clinic. Her cross-trained expertise and adaptability support smooth clinic operations across departments. Recently named McAllen’s Administrative Assistant of the Year, Arlene is a true asset to the team.

★ Chasity Woodard, LMSW, Main Campus: Chasity is a passionate and insightful social worker who identifies challenges and creates impactful solutions. Her contributions to team discussions and her dedication to patient care make her a trusted and valued colleague.

👏 Please join us in congratulating these outstanding team members for their dedication, compassion, and excellence!

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ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/28/2025

🧬 A double-edged sword: boosting the survival of cancer-killing cells has a trade-off.

Research published in The Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer (Society for Immunotherapy of Cancer) shows that while engineered IL-7 signaling helps CAR-NK cells survive in solid tumors, it also weakens their tumor-fighting ability.

🔗 Read the full study: https://jitc.bmj.com/content/13/7/e010672

Led by Dr. Robin Parihar at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center and Baylor College of Medicine, the team tested a synthetic IL-7 receptor (C7R) that kept CAR-NK cells alive without the need for external cytokines. But over time, the constant signal pushed the cells into a stressed state, leading to reduced cancer-killing potential.

The study used preclinical models of neuroblastoma (a solid tumor) and CD19⁺ leukemia (a blood cancer) to evaluate the effects of C7R. While C7R improved CAR-NK cell survival in both settings, it failed to sustain long-term tumor control—highlighting the complexity of cytokine signaling in different tumor environments.

“Our findings highlight the need for more nuanced cytokine engineering—and pave the way for future CAR-NK therapies that balance survival signals with mechanisms that preserve cytotoxic function in the tumor microenvironment,” explains Dr. Parihar.

This research was a collaborative effort between Texas Children's Hospital, the Center for Cell and Gene Therapy, Baylor College of Medicine and Houston Methodist.

Supported by Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation and the American Cancer Society, this work lays the groundwork for more effective CAR-NK therapies for children with solid tumors.

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: https://kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/17/2025

Excited to share that our very own Dr. Candelaria O'Farrell has been named recipient of the 2025 Drs. Ralph and Judith Feigin Medical Staff Most Excellent Fellow Award!

As one of the top distinctions for fellows at Texas Children’s, the award recognizes an individual who embodies the legacy of the Feigins—visionary educators and champions for pediatric care.

At Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center, Dr. O'Farrell has distinguished herself through her exceptional leadership, clinical expertise and dedication to improving children’s health—and the real difference she is making to improve the lives of our young patients.

We’re proud to celebrate this milestone and the impact she continues to make every day. Congratulations Dr. O’Farrell! 👏

🔗Dr. O’Farrell’s profile: https://www.texaschildrens.org/find-a-provider/candelaria-ofarrell-md

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: https://kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/16/2025

🎨Our creative crew had a blast at the latest ‘Little Pawcassos’ event, working on camp-themed masterpieces and magnetic tile art alongside The Faris Foundation Art Therapist, Jen Sullivan, our favorite facility dog, Lawton, and his handler, Teaghan Bush Robinson. These moments of connection and creativity offer meaningful support to children navigating treatment.

Participants incorporated Polaroid portraits into their art, and magnetic mosaic blocks were transformed into impressive skyscrapers. The experience offered kids a chance to express themselves, connect with others and simply enjoy being creative in a supportive space.

Lawton, who was trained by Canine Companions, plays a vital role in supporting the wellness of patients during their time at the hospital.

📸 Check out the photos from this special day!



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/14/2025

📷Check out pictures from the 2025 NMDP Swabbing Event, held at Texas Children's Hospital last week!

Over two days, staff, families and faculty came together for free popcorn🍿, t-shirts, and cheek swabs to support patients in need of a donor match.

This year’s National Marrow Donor Program event highlighted the importance of expanding donor representation to improve match rates for children with cancer and blood disorders.

For some patients, especially those from historically underrepresented backgrounds, finding a compatible donor can be more difficult. Events like this help close that gap.

Donating is quick, easy and life changing. Text TCH to 61474 or visit: https://my.nmdp.org/s/join?language=en_US&joinCode=tch

Learn more about how ethnicity impacts donor matching: http://ms.spr.ly/6182l5k8O

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/10/2025

The Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center is advancing cutting-edge research that’s changing the paradigm of pediatric brain tumor care.

🔗 Read the full article and meet the researchers behind these discoveries: https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/for-physicians/research-texas-childrens-paves-way-for-innovative-pediatric-brain-tumor

Featuring Drs. Michael Taylor, Tamra Werbowetski-Ogilvie and Marco Gallo, the program uncovers how tumors like medulloblastoma and ependymoma form, survive and respond to treatment. Their work is helping to shape the future of care for children facing some of the most complex brain tumors.

Their latest findings are featured in three major studies. Published in the prestigious journals Cell and Nature Cell Biology, they include a novel CAR T-cell therapy targeting Group 3 medulloblastoma, a new understanding of how gene splicing drives tumor growth and a breakthrough in mapping the 3D genome structure of PFA ependymomas.

With a research model that integrates lab science and clinical care, Texas Children’s is accelerating the path from discovery to treatment. The Pediatric Brain Tumor Research Program continues to be a hub for innovation, bringing hope to families and advancing care for children facing some of the most complex brain tumors.



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/08/2025

A national honor for a rising leader in pediatric hematology🌟! Dr. Ajibike Lapite has been selected to attend the prestigious 2025 Advocacy Leadership Institute workshop from the American Society of Hematology! This competitive honor fosters expertise in early-career hematologists committed to shaping health policy and improving care for children with cancer and blood disorders. 🔗 Learn more about the program here: https://www.hematology.org/advocacy/ali

Dr. Lapite also received the 2025 Trainee Excellence Award from the Academy of Resident and Fellow Educators at Baylor College of Medicine, recognizing her outstanding contributions during her fellowship.

These honors reflect Dr. Lapite’s growing impact in both clinical care and health advocacy. Please join us in celebrating her accomplishments! 👏

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/08/2025

Congratulations to Dr. Helen Heslop, the 2025 recipient of the George Stamatoyannopoulos Mentorship Award from the American Society of Gene & Cell Therapy!

This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Heslop’s outstanding dedication to mentorship and her profound influence on the field of gene and cell therapy. Her guidance has shaped the careers of numerous trainees, many of whom have gone on to become successful independent investigators.

Dr. Heslop is celebrated by her mentees for her patience, kindness, and unwavering commitment to their growth—both professionally and personally.

Link to Dr. Heslop’s Texas Children’s profile: https://www.texaschildrens.org/find-a-provider/helen-e-heslop-md-dsc-hon

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/07/2025

In just 5 minutes, you could help save a life!🧬 Join NMDP and Texas Children's at our 4th annual cheek swabbing event from 9 am to 2 pm on July 9–10. The event will be held on the Auxiliary Bridge between Mark Wallace and West Towers, and the first 75 registrants will receive a free NMDP t-shirt 👕

Learn more about how to sign up and past events here: https://www.texaschildrens.org/content/help-patient-need-registering-with-nmdp-be-donor

This quick cheek swab could lead to a stem cell or marrow donation for a patient battling cancer or a blood disorder. This event, formerly known as Cheek Week, and held by the National Marrow Donor Program (NMDP), is focused on increasing donor representation and match rates. For Caucasians, the likelihood of finding a donor is 79%, whereas it’s as low as 29% for African Americans. To increase these numbers, we encourage all those eligible between the ages 18-40 to join the registry and bring hope to those still seeking a match!

Clinicians such as Dr. Zachary Prudowsky and Timesha Edwards, PA-C, have both donated stem cells through NMDP, becoming life-saving matches and witnessing the impact firsthand. Their stories are powerful reminders that a simple cheek swab can change—and save—a life.

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

07/03/2025

For more than 30 years, Debra F. Sukin, Ph.D., has dedicated her career to solving the unsolvable. Now, through a groundbreaking collaboration that combines the nation’s largest pediatric cancer program at Texas Children’s with our partners, Kinder Foundation and UT MD Anderson Cancer Center, that bold vision is becoming reality. Together, we are reshaping the world of pediatric cancer.

Powered by an extraordinary gift from Kinder Foundation, Kinder Children’s Cancer Center aims to become the nation’s largest and most comprehensive pediatric cancer center. Here’s how UT MD Anderson Cancer Center and Texas Children's Hospital came together to launch this joint venture and how they’re working together to reshape what’s possible: http://bit.ly/3G9673n

07/03/2025

When a routine moment turned into a life-changing diagnosis, Makaila’s fight began.

At 17 years old, after discovering a lump in her neck, Makaila Chenier was diagnosed with Stage 2 Hodgkin lymphoma.

Now undergoing treatment at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center, she is facing cancer with courage, creativity and the support of her family and her cat, Walter. 💜

Despite the challenges of chemotherapy and missing milestones like prom, Makaila was able to attend graduation and continues to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatric nurse.

With a 98% cure rate for Hodgkin lymphoma, her outlook is strong. “The prognosis for Hodgkin lymphoma is excellent, even in more advanced cases,” says Dr. ZoAnn Dreyer, Makaila’s pediatric oncologist.

Makaila’s story is not just about surviving cancer, it’s about thriving through it, and inspiring others along the way.

Learn more about her inspiring journey on the Show: https://www.today.com/health/disease/teen-mistook-lump-neck-cold-symptom-lymphoma-rcna210888

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

As the lump in Makaila Chenier's neck grew, it became difficult for her to breathe. That's when she knew she needed to see a doctor.