One Father's Legacy Continued Through Cancer Research Trials

In 2009, Mr. William E. Kahlert said, "Nothing gives me more satisfaction than to recognize outstanding leaders in the medical world who can have such a significant impact on helping people in our region."

As a patient, the late Mr. Kahlert recognized that research trials identify the latest medical interventions and advancements for cancer patients. The results of clinical trials can extend or save patients’ lives as well as contribute to the development of new therapies for the future.

Mr. Kahlert’s legacy lives on through his son, Greg, President of the Kahlert Foundation, who renewed the family’s commitment to oncology research in June with a $250,000 gift. Greg is eager to support Dr. Paul Celano, who treated Greg’s father, in his vision to increase the number of clinical trials for patients as Medical Director of the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute.

Today, the Berman Cancer Institute oversees 37 active oncology trials at multiple disease sites. The breadth and depth of the research program contributes to GBMC’s ranking as Maryland’s leading community cancer center, the only program in the Baltimore region to receive the prestigious Outstanding Achievement Award for quality oncology care by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer.

GBMC proudly participates in cooperative group trials sponsored by the National Cancer Institute (NCI), which brings together many investigators from hospitals and academic research centers throughout the United States. These trials have played an enormous role in cancer prevention, quality-of-life issues and comparison of different treatment combinations. However, the ongoing decrease in government funding is challenging. Most cooperative group trials only provide about $2,000 per patient, which is well below the $6,000 spent per patient.

Philanthropy is needed to continue providing opportunities to patients that might not otherwise be available. GBMC is grateful Greg Kahlert is whole-heartedly continuing in his father’s footsteps by helping GBMC get that much closer to realizing the benefits for these and future patients.

If you are interested in learning more about GBMC’s clinical trial program or supporting this important work, please contact Rachel Ladenson, Director of Major Gifts for GBMC Philanthropy, at rladenson@gbmc.org.