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Blanton-Davis Ovarian Cancer Research Program

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 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 & 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.

Laura Lee Scurlock BlantonMrs. 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.

Sandra DavisMrs. 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.

Education & Support

The JoAnn Rosenberg Fund: Read more about our women's educational seminar.

Ovarian Cancer Support Group (pdf)

Related Diseases


© 2009 The University of Texas M. D. Anderson Cancer Center