Texas Children's Cancer and Hematology Center

11/22/2025

Today on International Ewing Sarcoma Awareness Day, we’re honored to share Brailynn’s story—a survivor, an artist, an author, and a powerful reminder of just how strong kids can be. 🎗️

When a small cyst began to grow and change color, her family pushed for answers. Hearing the words Ewing sarcoma changed everything. From day one, Brailynn showed incredible courage—facing her fear of needles, pushing through chemo treatments, and finding strength even on the hardest days.

Along the way, she discovered her voice and her creativity. Brailynn designed a chemo shirt with special buttons to help maintain a sterile field during port access, and she wrote and illustrated her own book to help other children feel less scared during treatment. 📚

Her book is more than a story—it’s a resource. Child Life Specialists now use it to comfort and empower newly diagnosed children, helping them cope with the unknown and feel less alone. It’s available on Amazon, continuing Brailynn’s mission to make a difference.

In September, Brailynn rang the bell. Today, she’s back in school, joining the yearbook committee, painting, drawing, and dreaming up more books to write. ✨

Her advice to other kids: “You’re stronger than you think you are.”
And from her mom: “Take it one day at a time, keep as normal a routine as you can, and always hold on to hope.”

The Faris D. Virani Ewing Sarcoma Center at Texas Children’s is dedicated to advancing research and treatment for children like Brailynn. We’re grateful to partner with The Faris Foundation in this work. ❤️

Read more about Brailynn’s story: http://ms.spr.ly/6186tpkN0.

11/13/2025

Happy Genetic Counselor Appreciation Day! 💙🧬

Join us in celebrating Sarah Scollon, Lauren Desrosiers-Battu, and Laura George—three exceptional genetic counselors at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center who are transforming care for children with cancer and blood disorders.

When asked what excites them most about their roles, Sarah Scollon said it’s participating in the launch of the Kinder Children’s Cancer Center and leading research into newborn screening and long-term care for cancer predisposition syndromes. Lauren Desrosiers-Battu shared that it’s strengthening multidisciplinary collaborations to advance clinical care and research. Laura George said she’s most excited about guiding families through genetic testing and helping them understand its implications for care.

Genetic counselors like Sarah, Lauren and Laura play a critical role in helping families navigate complex decisions with clarity and confidence. Today, we recognize their impact—and the difference they make every day. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: https://kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

11/11/2025

On Veterans Day, watch this video from Baylor College of Medicine featuring Dr. Tim Porea, a U.S. Navy veteran and Professor of Pediatrics, who now helps guide the next generation of physicians at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center:

▶️ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ClpcojshnXM

Dr. Porea retired as a Navy Captain after 22 years of service, caring for children of military families around the world. Today, he serves as Associate Medical Director of the Clinical Division (Inpatient) and Vice Chair of the Credentials Committee at Texas Children’s Hospital, while mentoring medical students, residents and fellows across institutions.

We are thankful for his dedication to service—both in uniform and in medicine. 🎖️



Link to Dr. Porea’s profile at Texas Children’s: https://www.texaschildrens.org/find-a-provider/timothy-j-porea-md-mph

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

In honor of Veterans Day, Dr. Timothy Porea, professor of pediatrics-hematology and oncology at Baylor College of Medicine, reflects on his time in U.S. Navy...

11/11/2025

On , we honor the service of our Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center team members who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces — including Dr. John Craddock; Ethan Fournier, PNP; Dr. Bob Krance; Dr. Tim Porea; and Brandi M. Runnels, PA-C.

These clinicians continue to make a lasting impact on our field — not only through their military service, but through their leadership in pediatric care.

Examples of this over the past year include, Dr. Porea, who received the Jan Drutz, MD, Society Award at Baylor College of Medicine for his contributions to mentorship and education. Brandi Runnels was honored with the Star Faculty Award for Excellence in Patient Care, reflecting her commitment to clinical excellence and family-centered care.

We also extend our deepest thanks to all staff across our Center who have served. Your commitment strengthens our mission to care for children with cancer and blood disorders.



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: https://kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

11/09/2025

🩺 In honor of National Nurse Practitioner Week, we’re celebrating the Nurse Practitioners at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center for the expertise and compassion they bring to children and families facing cancer and blood disorders.

Their impact is felt across every part of our Center—from inpatient hematology-oncology to outpatient clinics. We’re grateful for their dedication and the care they provide every day.

📸 See our full NP team in the photo—and if one has made a difference in your life, we’d love to hear about it in the comments. 💙



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

11/04/2025

🎃👻 The results are in! Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center just wrapped its first-ever Halloween Costume Contest — and the creativity was off the charts. Check out the winners in the photos.

Group category winners were:
🥇 Wizard of Oz from the BMT Inpatient team
🥈 Little Mermaid ensemble from Dr. Rayne Rouce, Dr. Olive Eckstein, Dr. Alicia Herbison, Dr. Christina Ruiz and Emily Busse.
🥉 Gingerbread Men from our CRO group (who are already working towards December deadlines!) featuring Dr. Lisa Bomgaars, Dr. Patty Baxter, Cara Fontaine, Milica Stojakovic, Kemi Chukwuka-White, Grace Anand, Chenita Shepard, Florence Noel, and Rashonda Reed.

Individual winners were:
🥇 David Butler (Operations)
🥈 Izzy Figueredo (BMT Interpreter)
🥉 Christina Andrew-Barnett (Outpatient)

Want to see more costumes?
▶️ Watch the full Halloween recap from Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center on YouTube: https://youtube.com/shorts/qUQqbNe5qao

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

10/31/2025

🎃👻 Costumes, crafts, and a spooky hallway full of Halloween spirit—our Child Life and the Periwinkle Arts & Medicine team went all out to make this year’s celebration unforgettable at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center.

Care providers and staff joined patients and families for a day of creativity and connection, proving that care can come with a cape, a crown, or even a beanie baby (shoutout to Lawton, our facility dog!).

We’re grateful to our incredible community partners who helped make it all happen: The Periwinkle Foundation, BIG Love Cancer Care, Candlelighters Houston and Ronald McDonald House Charities Greater Houston!

Check out the video from this year’s celebration! 👀

10/31/2025

📸 Don’t miss the photos from a spellbinding celebration where bravery met Halloween magic! Chance for Hope Foundation hosted a special evening for adolescent patients at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center—complete with spooky costumes, dancing, and festive fun. 🎃🧙‍♀️

From witches and wizards to superheroes and skeletons, teens came together for a night of games, music, and connection. These moments give young people a chance to celebrate life and friendship in a space where they can truly be themselves.

Thank you Chance for Hope Foundation for helping make this possible.



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

10/28/2025

🕊️ In October, we are honoring of Spiritual Care Week by recognizing our chaplain Rev. Rahel Lee-Yoo, M.Div. at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center.

Rev. Lee-Yoo serves as Chaplain at the Center, where she walks alongside children with cancer and blood disorders through life’s most complex moments.

Reflecting on her role, Rev. Lee-Yoo shared:
"This work reminds me that sacred ground is not rare—it’s wherever the Spirit moves, love is poured out, and compassion chooses to stay even when the ground beneath feels like it’s falling out."

Spiritual care is a vital part of whole-person care. Our chaplains are clinically trained professionals who offer presence, deep listening, and guidance across all belief systems.

📸 Featured in the photos: Rev. Lee-Yoo with Susan Krause, Director of Program Development, during the recent Going Gold parade. Also featured are photos of the Children’s Chapel near the Auxiliary Bridge on the 3rd floor of the West Tower—a space designed with input from patients and families. Its oval design, shifting light cycle, and Tree of Hope reflect the values of healing, renewal, and spiritual diversity.

Learn more about spiritual care at Texas Children's: https://www.texaschildrens.org/spiritual-care



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

10/23/2025

Congratulations Dr. Mark Zobeck on receiving the 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 𝗛𝘆𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮𝗶 𝗛𝗼𝗽𝗲 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗹𝗮𝗿 𝗚𝗿𝗮𝗻𝘁, which provides $400,000 to support his research aimed at improving outcomes for children with rhabdomyosarcoma using multimodal artificial intelligence. He also received a 𝗣𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 from Baylor College of Medicine, recognizing his sustained mentorship contributions.

📸 Enjoy photos from the recent Hyundai Hope On Wheels celebration at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center. With appearances by TORO and two Houston Texans cheerleaders, the event brought energy and excitement to patients and families. Children added colorful handprints to Dr. Zobeck’s lab coat and a Hyundai vehicle—symbols of hope and solidarity in the fight against childhood cancer.

This research funding will enable Dr. Zobeck’s team to develop AI-powered models that combine clinical, genomic, transcriptomic, and imaging data to better predict survival and guide treatment for pediatric rhabdomyosarcoma. The goal: help clinicians tailor care more precisely, reducing unnecessary toxicity and improving outcomes. Through support from Hyundai Motor America and its dealers, the grant will fund this work through 2027.

ℹ️ Since 1998, Hyundai Hope on Wheels has supported the families, researchers, doctors and children affected by childhood cancer. Thanks to Hyundai Motor America and its nationwide dealers, the foundation has awarded over $277 million in research grants. Every project funded brings us closer to ending childhood cancer. Texas Children's Hospital is deeply grateful for their support and partnership. More info: https://hyundaihopeonwheels.org/

Dr. Zobeck also received the 𝗣𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱—short for Professional Educator Appreciation and Recognition—a student-nominated honor created by Baylor College of Medicine students. The award recognizes exceptional and sustained mentorship, reflecting the kind of long-term guidance that helps shape future leaders in medicine.

Link to Dr. Zobeck’s profile: https://www.texaschildrens.org/find-a-provider/mark-c-zobeck-md-mph



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

10/17/2025

Congratulations to Shelby Boone, MSN, APRN, CPNP-AC, CPN, who has been named a Gold Medalist 🏅👏 by the Good Samaritan Foundation — one of just six nurses statewide selected from over 1,000 nominations.

Shelby leads the Advanced Practice Provider Program at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center, where she’s built a collaborative inpatient APP service line focused on mentorship, innovation, and care for children with cancer and blood disorders.

🎥 Watch the video spotlighting Shelby’s leadership: https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=YuVZ5uR5zLg

In the video, Shelby Boone talks about how she draws on her own childhood cancer journey to bring hope to patients, holds tight to her love of clinical care even while leading a growing APP team, and channels that same compassion into mentoring the next generation of nurse practitioners. Also featured is Brandi M. Runnels, MS, MMS, PA-C, Associate Director of Inpatient APPs, who shares: “Shelby brings everyone to the table — and makes sure every voice is heard. That’s how real progress happens.”

We also celebrate the following 12 Bronze Medalists across our Cancer & Hematology Center (some pictured, bottom panel, as indicated), recognized for excellence in clinical care, education and leadership:
🥉Corina Coffman BSN, RN, BMTCN (pictured second from right)
🥉Samantha Forrest BSN, RN, BMTCN (pictured on far left)
🥉Brande Gill APRN, MSN, CPNP-AC/PC (pictured second from left)
🥉Haley Lattal MSN, APRN, CPNP-AC
🥉Kathleen Magee DNP, RN, CPHON
🥉Madelyn Oakley APRN, MSN, CPNP-PC
🥉Trace Peery BSN, RN
🥉Khoi Pham BSN, RN, CPHON, BMTCN (pictured on far right)
🥉Allison Rogan RN, BSN, BMTCN, CPHON (pictured third from right)
🥉Jennifer Valverde RN, BSN (pictured fourth from right)
🥉Ivory White APRN, FNP-C (pictured in middle)
🥉Emily Yarbrough MSN, APRN, CPNP-AC

Also pictured in bottom panel are Jennifer Sanders, DNP, RN, NEA-BC, Vice President, Cancer & Hematology Center, and Associate Chief Nurse Executive (third from right); and Shelby Boone (fourth from right).

ℹ️ Presented annually by the Good Samaritan Foundation, the Excellence in Nursing Awards honor nurses who lead with skill, compassion, and dedication. Since 1951, the Foundation has strengthened the nursing workforce across Texas through scholarships, mentorship, and recognition programs. Learn more about Excellence in Nursing Awards: https://www.gsftx.org/excellence-in-nursing/

ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: kinderchildrenscancercenter.org

10/15/2025

👏 Dr. Rayne Rouce has taken on two national leadership roles that reflect her deep expertise and commitment to equity in care. She was appointed Co-Chair of the Patient Access Committee for the NMDP-ASTCT ACCESS Initiative. She is also serving as Malignant Hematology Educational Chair for the 2025 American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting.

In her ACCESS Initiative role, Dr. Rouce will help guide national strategy to eliminate disparities in access to transplant and cell therapy, and to ensure that children with cancer & blood disorders aren’t left behind when it comes to access to life-saving care. The national initiative is facilitated by NMDP and the American Society for Transplantation and Cellular Therapy (ASTCT).

At ASH, she’s leading the development of the malignant hematology educational program, ensuring strong representation for Texas Children’s faculty and fellows in a space that reaches over 20,000 attendees.

These roles reflect her leadership in advancing education, and access to care within pediatric oncology and hematology.

Link to Dr. Rouce’s profile at TexasChildrens Cancer & Hematology Center: https://www.texaschildrens.org/find-a-provider/rayne-h-rouce-md



ℹ️🏥 Texas Children's Hospital and University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center are joining forces to launch the Kinder Children's Cancer Center in 2026. Learn more: https://kinderchildrenscancercenter.org