The mission of the Vannie E. Cook Jr. Children’s Cancer and Hematology Clinic is to offer treatment to children in South Texas who suffer from cancer and blood disorders. It is the region’s first state-of-the-art pediatric hematology/oncology clinic and the only comprehensive pediatric cancer treatment facility in South Texas.
In addition to offering diagnostic and cancer treatment services, the clinic provides cancer genetic counseling to individuals and families concerned about their risk of cancer, offers the services of a long term survivor program which follows childhood cancer survivors through adulthood, and conducts childhood cancer epidemiology research. Vannie Cook Children’s Clinic is a comprehensive care facility.
The clinic was created through a joint effort of the Vannie E. Cook Jr. Cancer Foundation, Baylor College of Medicine and the Texas Children’s Cancer and Hematology Centers. Our goal is to ensure that local children who suffer from cancer and blood diseases receive the most up-to-date care and treatment without the need to leave the region and regardless of ability to pay.
The Dedicated Staff
The commitment of the Vannie Cook medical team to deliver the newest and most advanced therapies for cancer and blood disorders is exceeded only by their compassion for their young patients and anxious families.
Dr. Juan C. Bernini, Dr Rodrigo Eraña, Dr. Lorimar Ramirez Pagán and Dr. Dimarys Sanchez lead an extraordinary team of chemo-certified RNs, a research nurse, social workers, medical assistants, and laboratory technologist, all supported by an operations manager, a development director and two administrative coordinators. Our doctors enjoy medical staff privileges at most hospitals in the Rio Grande Valley and at Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston.
The Vannie Cook medical team approaches each and every case with extraordinary concern and care, despite a steady increase in the number of patients and families who rely on their expertise.
Fulfilling a Need
Upon opening our doors fifteen years ago, the expectation was to see 100 children within the Clinic’s first year; but when the number exceeded 400, a need for care greater than we knew became apparent. Since 2001, the Vannie Cook medical team has treated more than 8500 children, four times the number expected.
Number of Children Treated Since the Clinic Opened
Clinic Partners
One of the nation’s top medical schools and an academic cornerstone of the Texas Medical Center in Houston.
Financially supports the work of the Clinic with a monthly operating grant and the free use of a state-of-the-art facility and building.
Operates the largest children’s cancer program in Texas and are a world leader in care and research for children with cancer.
Our success depends on the support from our Community. Will you help us? Make a Donation