The Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program was created in 1996 as a critical step toward our goal of eradicating ovarian cancer. Led by David M. Gershenson, M.D., the program was the nation’s first formal, comprehensive ovarian cancer research effort aimed at translating basic discoveries into improved therapies and management of the disease. 

Today, the program continues to lead the nation in innovative research into the causes, prevention, detection, and treatment of ovarian cancer with new co-directors, Anil K. Sood, M.D. and Judith K. Wolf, M.D.  The reputation, innovation, and dedication of both Sood and Wolf will help advance the program in its mission to ultimately develop a cure for ovarian cancer.

Laura Lee Scurlock Blanton and Sandra G. Davis
The program is named after Laura Lee Scurlock Blanton and Sandra G. Davis whose families provided seed money, funding, and a voice in the community about ovarian cancer.

Mrs. Blanton lent her talents and support to the Ovarian Cancer Research Program as an advisor. She served as honorary chair for the program’s Sprint for Life 5K Run/Walk and was a lifetime member of M. D. Anderson’s Board of Visitors, a group of prominent volunteers who contribute their expertise and support to programs and philanthropy at M. D. Anderson. Mrs. Blanton led a valiant fight against ovarian cancer.  She passed away on August 6, 1999 at the age of 71.

Mrs. Davis battled ovarian cancer for four years. Her sweet nature and focused determination served as inspiration to accelerate efforts toward the improvement of prevention, early detection and treatment methods in the fight against ovarian cancer.  Mrs. Davis passed away at the age of 49 on February 29, 1996, and left two daughters, Kimberly and Wendy. Lee Davis, her husband, donated seed money for the creation of the Ovarian Cancer Research Program and continues to serve as an advisor to the program.