Honor Those Who Have Made a Difference

As the year comes to a close, many spend time reflecting upon the past year. For me, this year brings a close to my service as a member of the ROI Board of Trustees. I was appointed by ASTRO to a task force in 2005 to determine if we should launch a research foundation, and I was proud to join the Board of Trustees when ROI was established in 2006. For the past 16 years, it has been a pleasure to provide leadership and guidance to this valuable organization.

The establishment of ROI was made possible thanks to the assets of the Juan A. del Regato Foundation, which was established in honor of his retirement. Dr. del Regato was a great mentor, who had a unique ability to organize and inspire others. His influence continues today through the ARRO del Regato Webinars, which are provided for free thanks to ROI, and his masterful bibliography which is hosted by ROI and remains an accessible resource for all.

Additionally, I reflect upon my other mentor, Bernard Pierquin, who generously shared his infectious curiosity and vast experience with others. The efforts of Dr. Pierquin led to the “renaissance” of brachytherapy in the 1970s, which continues today.

In honor of my two great mentors, I have generously made a donation to ROI in honor of their work and in memory of their kindness. The tireless dedication of these two men to fully understand the potential of radiation therapy through research is reflected upon today’s goal of ROI.

In reflection of the past year, I encourage you to consider making a donation to ROI in honor or memory of those who have made a difference in your life. Whether you chose to honor your mentor, celebrate your colleagues who have served with you, or thank your family for their support, your gift to ROI will continue to make an impact on our practice and profession.

To learn more about making a gift in gRADitude, please visit: ROInstitute.org/gRADitude.

On behalf of my family, I wish all of those in our radiation oncology community a wonderful and peaceful holiday season and a beautiful new year.

J. Frank Wilson, MD, FASTRO
ROI Trustee and Development Committee Chair