January 27, 2025

For three decades, Susan Blaney, MD, has dedicated her career to advancing the fight against pediatric cancer at Texas Children’s. As Service Chief of the Cancer & Hematology Center since 2018, she has been instrumental in shaping the program’s reputation for excellence and innovation, receiving numerous accolades over her storied career. She will retire at the end of January, leaving behind a legacy of remarkable contributions to patient care, research and education.

Welcoming Dr. Parsons

Succeeding Dr. Blaney, Donald Williams (Will) Parsons, MD, PhD, will serve as the interim director of Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center. Dr. Parsons is also a professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Section of Hematology-Oncology at Baylor College of Medicine.

“Through her efforts, Dr. Blaney has fostered a culture of excellence and innovation, and I am honored to further strengthen our commitment to world-leading care, research and education in close collaboration with our outstanding faculty, staff and fellows,” said Dr. Parsons.

A career of exemplary service

Blaney started her career serving her country in the U.S. Army, where she spent 10 years treating pediatric cancer patients at military hospitals while completing her internship, residency and fellowship. Over the past 25 years, she has driven groundbreaking progress by developing new agents and therapeutic strategies for children with recurrent or refractory cancer, particularly for those with malignancies of the central nervous system. She has played a key role in the development of over 70 novel drugs and 20 new drug combinations for high-risk childhood cancers, as well as numerous clinical trials of novel anticancer agents. These trials emanated from her laboratory-based research as well as her national leadership roles as the chair, Children’s Oncology Group (COG) Phase 1 and Pilot Consortium and vice chair, Children’s Oncology Group.

Dr. Blaney has held pivotal research and leadership roles in the Department of Pediatrics as well as Baylor College of Medicine. She was the inaugural vice chair for Research in the department and subsequently an executive vice chair. She was also the first vice president, Clinical and Translational Research at BCM, founding co-director of the Institute for Clinical and Translational Research, and the first associate chair of Clinical Research for the Dan L. Duncan Comprehensive Cancer Center.

In addition to her clinical and research accomplishments, Dr. Blaney has made a lasting impact through her dedication to education and mentorship. She has guided countless medical students, residents, fellows and faculty, co-edited leading textbooks in the field, and served as co-Principal Investigator on the nation’s only NCI-funded K12 faculty training grant focused on translational pediatric cancer and hematology research.

“As I step down from my role as Director, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the incredible journey we’ve had at Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center,” said Blaney. “It has been an honor to work alongside such dedicated and talented professionals who are leading the field nationally and internationally. I am confident that through Dr. Parsons’ expertise, vision and commitment to our mission, the Center will continue to thrive and achieve new heights in improving the lives of children, adolescents, and young adults battling cancer and blood disorders.”

To learn more about Texas Children’s Cancer & Hematology Center, click here.

Please join us in thanking Dr. Blaney for her many contributions and congratulating Dr. Parsons on his new role.

We invite you to lace up your running shoes and join the Texas Children’s Heroes Running Team in the 2026 Houston Marathon, Half Marathon or 5K. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or new to the sport, there’s a place for you in this incredible event.

Texas Children’s has been a charity partner of the Houston Marathon for many years now. This past year, Texas Children’s had many executives as part of our running team, including Dr. Debra F. Sukin, Dan Gollins, Dr. James Versalovic, Dr. Howard Weiner, Katie Cooper and Laura Hardy.

Why Participate?

By joining our Texas Children’s Heroes Running Team, you’ll not only challenge yourself physically but also make a meaningful impact on our patients. All participants will fundraise on behalf of Texas Children’s to meet our goal of raising $10,000 this year.  

  • Free Race Registration: Just meet the fundraising requirement of $250 or $500, and your registration fee for the 5K, Half Marathon or Full Marathon will be free.
  • Support and Motivation: As part of the Texas Children’s Heroes Running Team, you’ll receive fundraising tips, training resources and be part of a supportive community cheering you on every step of the way.
  • Exclusive Gear: Show your Texas Children’s pride with special team gear.

Get Registered Now!

All you have to do is sign up. Register to join the Texas Children’s Heroes Running Team for the race of your choice HERE.

Don’t miss this chance to represent Texas Children’s at one of Houston’s most exciting events. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of our patients and families while achieving personal fitness goals.

If you have any questions, contact Cameron Carlin at cdcarlin@texaschildrens.org or 832-822-0310 or visit our charity page.

January 24, 2025

Details and meetings links coming soon.

Ride out team members brave the winter weather.

 

Telehealth has become an integral part of health care, providing families with convenience and access regardless of their location. Our Virtual Visit Support Center (VVSC) plays a vital role in ensuring virtual visits run seamlessly for both families and providers. Whether it’s troubleshooting technology or offering compassionate guidance, our dedicated VVSC team works tirelessly behind the scenes to make virtual care possible—and exceptional. 

What does the VVSC team do? 

The VVSC bridges the gap between families and providers, ensuring virtual visits are smooth and stress-free. Certified Medical Assistants (CMAs) like Aleyda Rivera and Kaylor Handy, alongside Ambulatory Service Representatives (ASRs), handle a range of responsibilities from technical support to pre-visit processes. 

“Our responsibility is troubleshooting,” said Ale. “If families run into issues with their audio or microphone, we’re there to help.” CMAs also verify patient information, collect consent and assist with insurance-related pre-check-ins, creating a seamless experience for families. 

ASRs, like Veronica Lucatero, serve as the first point of contact for families new to telehealth. “If a patient’s MyChart is not active or they’ve never had a virtual visit, I activate accounts and walk families through orientation to ensure everything is ready for their appointment,” explained Veronica. 

How have they grown? 

The VVSC team has come a long way since its inception. “When we started during the pandemic, telehealth was still relatively new for many families,” said Anasia Stinson, VVSC Assistant Director. “Over time, we’ve refined our processes to make virtual visits as close to an in-person experience as possible. The team’s adaptability and commitment have been key to our success.” 

Collaboration has been a cornerstone of the team’s approach. With a hybrid work model, team members alternate between in-office and remote days, relying on Microsoft Teams to stay connected and support one another in real time. To manage the high patient volume—sometimes up to 380 patients in a single day—the team implemented a “buddy system” to ensure seamless coordination. Kaylor, who co-developed the system, notes, “It’s helped reduce confusion during busy hours and ensured someone is always covering when needed.” 

Providing compassion from afar 

Technical expertise is only part of what the VVSC team offers. Compassion and empathy are equally essential. Ale reflected, “It’s so important to put yourself in the family’s shoes. Some are frustrated or overwhelmed. You have to remember you don’t know what kind of day they’re having.” As a bilingual CMA, Ale often assists Spanish-speaking families, helping them navigate the virtual process with ease. 

Kaylor shared a memorable story about a shy young patient who rarely spoke during visits. “After a few visits, he started smiling and responding. His parents were emotional because they said he rarely opened up to anyone,” she said. 

Anasia emphasized that working in the VVSC requires a unique blend of skills. “We look for individuals who are not only technically savvy but also adaptable and patient focused. Navigating complex systems while keeping families at the center of everything is crucial.” 

Ale and Kaylor agree. “You have to love what you do,” Kaylor said. “Families can tell if you’re truly engaged.”  

Skills that make a difference every day 

By blending technical expertise with genuine care, the VVSC team ensures that families receive the high-quality care they expect from Texas Children’s, even in a virtual setting. 

“For me, it’s rewarding to provide families with the support they need to have a successful, smooth virtual visit,” said Ale. “Even if things don’t go exactly as planned, we want families to leave saying, ‘We got the care we needed.’” 

Thank you to the VVSC team for your innovation, dedication and compassion. You’re showing every day that virtual care can feel as personal as an in-person visit. 

January 18, 2025

FINAL UPDATE — Wednesday, January 22 at 12pm

Ride out will end at noon today, but please be prepared for 1:1 handoffs through Thursday. All campuses and entities will be operational on Thursday. This is the final update for this weather event.

Operational updates

  • Medical Center Relief Team, please park in Garage 22 PFWII.
  • Medical Center shuttle buses resume tomorrow at 5am.
  • Medical Center team members, please return to normal parking options for the Medical Center (Garages 19, 14, Meyer North/South).

 

Ride Out Activated Across All Campuses — Tuesday, January 21 at 12pm

A heartfelt THANK YOU for your hard work and commitment for activating our ride out plan across all Texas Children’s campuses.

Our patients and their families are full of gratitude for those staying on campus taking care of them through this winter storm. Thank you to those who quickly shifted appointments to telemedicine to treat patients. And, thank you to our Health Plan team for taking care of their members during the storm. 

New:

  • Garage 12 in the Medical Center is closed due to ice. Current parkers in Garage 12 will be guided out should they need to leave.
  • Medical Center shuttle services are suspended today and tomorrow. 

Operation Status:

  • Ride out teams are in place across all campuses.
  • On schedule to end ride out on Wednesday at 12pm.
  • Be prepared for 1:1 handoffs through Thursday.
  • We will continue to monitor, but we expect all campuses and all entities to be operational on Thursday.

Call for Photos:

Again, thank you for your commitment to our patients, our members and each other during this weather event.

Please click here to access the Medical Center garage map for assistance. We encourage relief staff to park in Garage 22 to help alleviate congestion in Garages 16 and 21.

 

NEW UPDATES: Winter Storm Ride Out — Monday, January 20 at 12pm

Texas Children’s is activating ride out status today at 7pm through Wednesday at 12pm.

Please see new updates below. 

Emergency Pay Practices:

  • Emergency pay applies to all campus employees working on site during ride out (Houston and Austin).
  • Emergency pay will be in effect Monday, January 20 at 7pm until Wednesday, January 22 at 12pm.
  • REMINDER: For more information on Emergency Pay, click here to access the FAQs. 

Medical Center:

  • NEW: To reserve your room to sleep or to schedule a shower, please click here to access the hoteling application. This app is for the Medical Center location only.
  • If you’re having trouble using or accessing this new tool, please go to the MWT 3rd floor welcome desk for assistance. Please review the video tutorial for help on how to use the app.
  • If you have a sleeping location and want to check out a cot, please go to the MWT 3rd floor welcome desk starting Monday at 4pm.
  • All food outlets will be open, but please bring your own snacks. 

Parking and Transportation:

  • NEW: Medical Center garage gates for garages 22, 16 and 21 will be open Monday when ride out employees begin the check-in process.
  • Medical Center shuttles will run as usual. We will update you if there are changes to the schedule.   

Operations Status:

  • NEW: The administrative/research office buildings are open for ride out team members. Unless you are on the ride out team, do not come to those offices on Tuesday and Wednesday. Please continue to consult your respective leadership for updates and details on business operations.

Emergency Text Messages:

Sign up for text messages from TCH to know about any changes to operations.

  • Logon to Voyager
  • Go to Contact Info
  • Add the Home Mobile Phone field 

Employee Phone Line:

To receive updates, please call the employee phone line at 1-866-921-8241

(1-866-921-TCH1).

Social Media:

To share our winter weather updates, click the links for our Facebook and Instagram channels.

For a complete listing of facility and ride out updates, please visit texaschildrensnews.org.

 

NEW UPDATES: Winter Storm Ride Out — Sunday, January 19 at 12pm

Texas Children’s is activating ride out status this Monday at 7pm through Wednesday at 12pm.

Please see new updates below.

Ride Out Preparation and Sleeping Arrangements:

  • NEW: For all campuses, check in for sleep arrangements will begin Monday at 4pm.
  • If you are on the ride out team, sleeping arrangements will be available.
  • Ride out teams for medical staff are being developed by division chiefs. Please discuss with your operational leadership. 
  • Begin to prepare what you may need onsite.
  • Click here for the disaster bag checklist.

Medical Center:

  • NEW: The hoteling application will be distributed tomorrow morning before noon to allow rooms to be booked. In preparation for using the application, please review the video tutorial. Please only use this application if you need a room to sleep in or you need to schedule a shower. This app is for the Medical Center location only.
  • NEW: If you have a sleeping location and want to check out a cot, please go to the MWT 3rd floor welcome desk starting Monday at 4pm.
  • All food outlets will be open, but be prepared to bring your own snacks. 

West Campus:

  • NEW: Check in at the first floor conference center Monday at 4pm.
  • Sleeping arrangements, shower schedules and respite area availability/locations will be provided. 
  • NEW: There will be a dinner option Monday and Tuesday night with a limited menu.

Woodlands Campus:

  • NEW: Check in at the first floor main lobby Monday at 4pm.
  • Sleeping arrangements, shower schedules and respite area availability/locations will be provided.

North Austin Campus:

  • Connect with your leader to receive your sleeping assignment.

Parking and Transportation:

  • NEW: Medical Center garage gates for garages 12, 16 and 21 will be open Monday when ride out employees begin the check-in process.
  • Medical Center shuttles will run as usual. We will update you if there are changes to the schedule.   

Emergency Pay Practices:

  • NEW: Emergency pay applies to all campus employees working on site during ride out (Houston and Austin).
  • Emergency pay will be in effect Monday, January 20 at 7pm until Wednesday, January 22nd at 12pm.
  • For more information on Emergency Pay, click here. 

Operations Status:

  • NEW: TCPs in Greater Houston and Bryan/College Station will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
  • TCPs in the Greater Austin area will be closed Tuesday and will reopen Wednesday afternoon.
  • TCPs will move some appointments to virtual care.
  • Houston Urgent Cares will be closed through Wednesday with virtual care appointments available.
  • Houston Specialty Care and outpatient clinics are closed Tuesday and Wednesday and will move some appointments to virtual care.
  • In person outpatient activities are canceled for Texas Children’s. Telemed appointments are available.
  • Houston Health Plan will operate business as usual. Health Plan employees, please consult local leadership for updates and details on business operations.
  • All administrative buildings will operate business as usual.
  • Outpatient community locations and non-clinical departments should continue to consult their respective leadership for updates and details on business operations.

Relief Team:

  • Be prepared to come in as early as Wednesday evening.
  • Your leader or designee will be in contact with you regarding specific plans. 

Remote/Hybrid Employees:

Staff who are able to work remotely and are not required to be on site to support operations should consult with their leaders about working remotely on Tuesday through Thursday next week.

  • All exempt and non-exempt employees working remotely must use the ATK Telecommute Code for accurate remote tracking.
  • Stay in communication with your leader about your status.

Emergency Text Messages:

Sign up for text messages from TCH to know about any changes to operations.

  • Logon to Voyager
  • Go to Contact Info
  • Add the Home Mobile Phone field

Employee Phone Line:

To receive updates, please call the employee phone line at 1-866-921-8241 (1-866-921-TCH1).

 

NEW UPDATE: Ride Out Status Activated Starting Monday at 7pm — Saturday, January 18 at 6:15pm

Ride out status will be activated across all campuses starting Monday at 7pm through Wednesday at 12pm due to next week’s winter storm.

Operations Status:

  • In person outpatient activities are canceled for Texas Children’s. Telemed appointments are available.
  • TCPs in the Greater Houston area will be closed Tuesday and Wednesday.
  • TCPs in the Greater Austin area and Bryan/College Station will be closed Tuesday and will reopen Wednesday afternoon.
  • TCPs will move some appointments to virtual care.
  • Houston Urgent Cares will be closed through Wednesday with virtual care appointments available.
  • Houston Specialty Care and outpatient clinics are closed Tuesday and Wednesday and will move some appointments to virtual care.
  • Houston Health Plan will operate business as usual. Health Plan employees, please consult local leadership for updates and details on business operations.
  • All administrative buildings will operate business as usual.
  • Outpatient community locations and non-clinical departments should continue to consult their respective leadership for updates and details on business operations.

Ride Out Preparation and Sleeping Arrangements:

  • If you are on the ride out team, sleeping arrangements will be available.
  • Ride out teams for medical staff are being developed by division chiefs. Please discuss with your operational leadership. There will be specific information related to medical staff coming soon.
  • Please begin to prepare what you may need onsite.
  • Click here for disaster bag checklist.

Medical Center:

  • For those who need a sleeping assignment, the hoteling app will be available starting Monday morning to sign up.
  • The link will be shared when ready.
  • If you have a sleeping location and want to check out a cot, please go to the MWT 3rd floor welcome desk starting Monday afternoon.
  • All food outlets will be open, but please be prepared to bring your own snacks. 

West Campus:

  • Please check in at the first floor conference center.
  • Sleeping arrangements, shower schedules and respite area availability/locations will be provided. 

Woodlands Campus:

  • Please check in at the first floor main lobby.
  • Sleeping arrangements, shower schedules and respite area availability/locations will be provided.

North Austin Campus:

  • Connect with your leader to receive your sleeping assignment.

Relief team:

Please be prepared to come in as early as Wednesday evening. Your leader or designee will be in contact regarding specific plans. 

Remote/Hybrid Employees:

Staff who are able to work remotely and are not required to be on site to support operations should consult with their leaders about working remotely on Tuesday through Thursday next week.

  • All exempt and non-exempt employees working remotely must use the ATK Telecommute Code for accurate remote tracking.
  • Stay in communication with your leader about your status.

Emergency Text Messages:

Sign up for text messages from TCH to know about any changes to operations.

  • Logon to Voyager
  • Go to Contact Info
  • Add the Home Mobile Phone field 

Employee phone line:

To receive updates, please call the employee phone line at 1-866-921-8241 (1-866-921-TCH1). 

Emergency Pay Practices:

  • Emergency Pay will be in effect as of 7 p.m. Monday, January 20 until noon Wednesday, January 22. for Houston-based employees working on-site at a Texas Children’s location. We will evaluate Wednesday if it needs to be extended.
  • For more information on Emergency Pay, click here.

Safety Checklist:

Safety is always our first priority, so prepare now for potential inclement weather.

  • Monitor the local news and weather for traffic and safety alerts.
  • Avoid unnecessary travel during inclement weather.
  • Use caution when navigating roadways and plan for additional travel time to make detours or adjust your route if necessary.
  • Visit the Winter Weather Preparedness page on the Organizational Resilience SharePoint site for quick links to check for power outages and traffic maps.   


Matt Girotto
Administrator On Call