The Mary Kay Ash Foundation has awarded a grant of $500,000 to the Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation to enhance research and early detection efforts for breast cancer, specifically targeting triple-negative breast cancer. This funding aims to accelerate a clinical trial and bolster initiatives at the Texas Cancer Interception Institute (TCII), which focuses on proactive cancer prevention rather than reactive treatment.
Michael Lunceford, president of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation board, emphasized the organization’s commitment to improving outcomes for cancers that disproportionately affect women. “The Mary Kay Ash Foundation remains committed to finding cures for cancers affecting women,” Lunceford stated. He noted that this grant represents a significant step in redefining cancer care through earlier interventions.
Support for Innovative Trials
A portion of the grant, specifically $100,000, will continue to support the TRIM-EBC clinical trial led by Dr. Joyce O’Shaughnessy, a prominent breast cancer researcher. This study explores the effectiveness of certain weight-loss medications in reducing the risk of recurrence among overweight breast cancer patients. Baylor Scott & White researchers believe the results could shape future treatment guidelines and improve patient outcomes.
The remaining funds will contribute to the TCII, established in March 2025 with a $7 million gift from Jeff and Carmen York. The institute integrates clinical care with research, employing advanced tools such as multi-cancer early detection blood tests and AI-driven analytics to identify at-risk patients early. This innovative approach aims to transform patients’ journeys from “I have cancer” to “I have cancer, but we caught it early,” ultimately enhancing survivorship rates across communities.
A Legacy of Partnership
The latest grant underscores the ongoing partnership between the Mary Kay Ash Foundation and Baylor Scott & White, which has seen a total contribution of $1.3 million over the past two decades. The foundation received the Circle of Care Award at the 2025 Celebrating Women Luncheon, an event that honors leaders in breast cancer research and care. This luncheon has raised over $42 million to support research, detection, and programs aimed at empowering women and families affected by breast cancer.
“Mary Kay Ash believed in the power of women to change the world,” stated Christina Goodman, president of the Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation. She highlighted the importance of collaboration, noting that when “brilliant minds” like Dr. O’Shaughnessy partner with philanthropic organizations, it leads to extraordinary advancements in patient care and hope for those affected by cancer.
The efforts of the Mary Kay Ash Foundation extend beyond North Texas, reflecting a global commitment to addressing cancers impacting women. According to Mary Kay Inc., its foundations and charitable funds have contributed nearly $44 million worldwide towards research and support programs focused on women’s cancers.
As the Mary Kay Ash Foundation continues to invest in transformative research, the collaboration between its leadership and healthcare innovators promises to drive significant advancements in the fight against breast cancer and improve outcomes for countless women.
