Energy Transfer and Sunoco donate $2.1 million to support pediatric cancer research at MD Anderson

The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center received a $2.1 million donation from Dallas-based Energy Transfer and Sunoco to support pediatric cancer research. The funds were raised through the companies' annual workplace giving campaign, which has donated more than $17 million to MD Anderson's Children Cancer Hospital since 2014.

"Our annual fundraising campaign in support of MD Anderson is the Partnership's largest and the most personal effort for our employees," said Tom Long, co-Chief Executive Officer of Energy Transfer. "Over the years, we have had the privilege of meeting with MD Anderson's pediatric oncologists, whose dedication and compassion continue to move and inspire us. Their tireless efforts not only bring hope to children and families in their care but also lead to treatments that impact lives around the world."

Energy Transfer and Sunoco employees contributed more than $700,000, surpassing the $550,000 fundraising goal for this year's employee giving campaign. Corporate donations from Energy Transfer and the Energy Transfer/Sunoco Foundation brought the total for 2025 to $2.1 million, its largest donation to date.

"The generous employees at Energy Transfer and Sunoco have once again rallied to help MD Anderson advance life-saving pediatric cancer research, to reduce the harmful side effects of cancer treatments and to improve the lives of children and families facing cancer," said Richard Gorlick, M.D., division head and chair of Pediatrics at MD Anderson. "On behalf of MD Anderson, our patients and their families, I share our deepest gratitude for their continued support."

Pediatric patient's story inspires others to support cancer research
This year's campaign featured five-year-old pediatric cancer survivor and ambassador, Hank Voelter. When Voelter was diagnosed with leukemia at age two, his family turned to MD Anderson, where expert care and breakthrough research helped him return to being a happy, active child.

In a video, Voelter's mother, Madison Voelter, recalled that during their first hospital visit, a nurse pointed out the bell patients ring when they complete treatment. The nurse told them that one day, Voelter would ring that bell, too. Voelter's family says this interaction - and each interaction thereafter - with his care team at MD Anderson brought them hope and assurance. 

Voelter participated in a clinical trial and completed treatment at MD Anderson. Today, he is cancer-free. 

"Every year, more than 15,000 children just like Hank are diagnosed with cancer; however, more than 80% of those children will survive five years or more due to advances in treatment and cancer research," Gorlick said. "These results are made possible through generous allies like Energy Transfer and Sunoco coming together to support pediatric cancer research. Together, we are making progress in our shared mission to end cancer."