How You Can Help
Robert A. Parker Olive Open Benefits M. D. Anderson Research
February 2008
Beverly grew to appreciate the tremendous patient care at M. D. Anderson while her husband of over 40 years was undergoing neuroendocrine carcinoma treatment with Dr. Yao. Bob’s doctors in Dayton, Ohio, had been unsure of how to proceed with treatment when he was diagnosed with this rare form of cancer. Fortunately for the Parkers, a physician and friend of the family, Richard Cammerer, researched the disease and found Dr. Yao at M. D. Anderson. The Parkers decided that M. D. Anderson and Dr. Yao were the best choice for Bob’s treatment. Beverly remembers the kindness of the people she encountered while in Houston and has fond memories of the great experiences she and Bob had while staying in the Rotary House, M. D. Anderson’s specialized hotel for patients and their families.
After Bob passed on, Beverly and their children decided to organize the Olive Open (named for Bob’s favorite treats) as a way of paying tribute to a beloved father and husband. They held the tournament at the family’s country club along with an evening cocktail reception and dinner after the tournament. The Parkers wanted the proceeds of the event to benefit the institution and the researcher who had offered her husband and their father such exceptional care.
Sixty-five golfers participated in the tournament on that beautiful day last summer. More than 150 friends and family attended the cocktail reception and dinner following the tournament. Their efforts raised more than $26,000 for Dr. Yao’s research. The event was a complete success, and plans are currently underway for the 2008 Olive Open, to be held on August 4. Beverly hopes to include a silent auction and a raffle to raise even more money for this year’s tournament. If you would like more information about the tournament, please contact Beverly Parker at 937-572-2357.