the torch Winter 2014, Issue 4 | Page 28

From the Chairman This is a joyous season of counting our blessings and sharing our bounty! We are fortunate to have loving family, caring friends, abiding faith and our wonderful community. And I am always reminded how sharing our good fortune can be a blessing to so many others, now and at every season of the year. This season at Baylor, I had the pleasure of attending the annual Grand Rounds® Golf Tournament. A smaller scale event to be sure, but nonetheless thrilling, it reminded me of being at the Byron Nelson, where participants experience the joy of being outdoors, playing with friends and colleagues while raising money for a great cause. This event was followed up by the 15th anniversary Celebrating Women luncheon, which was an especially moving and personal event this year, focusing on those who have fought breast cancer or been touched by it. We also surprised one of our most cherished members of the Foundation – Lindalyn Adams! The loving video tribute to her legendary efforts on behalf of Baylor was a well-deserved surprise that brought tears to many eyes. This year’s annual Diabetes Health and Wellness Institute Walk/Fun Run was a huge success both in raising funds and sharing awareness about healthy eating and exercise. The Institute has become a beacon for the community on the importance of eating right and staying active. Many Baylor efforts target a specific need and it can be challenging to decide where to give your dollars. But for the broader view of sharing our bounty, the Annual Fund drive hits the spot! This drive is critical to filling gaps where the need is greatest, so you know your dollars will be well used! The comprehensive Baylor AT&T Memory Center is up and running in its new home, thanks to a gracious gift from AT&T. It will be a great blessing to many in North Texas for years to come. Earlier this fall ground was broken for the new facility and collaboration with Canine Companions for Independence® – supplying trained assistance dogs to patients for long-term healing. And we have more to celebrate with the grand opening of Baylor Scott & White Medical Center – Waxahachie – a