Finding Allies

Kathryn Smith’s connection to UT began in her childhood home in Tyler, Texas, where her father installed a doorbell that chimed the opening bars of “The Eyes of Texas.” The sound was a frequent reminder of her father’s love for all things Longhorn. The connection she feels to the Forty Acres today, however, lacks such whimsy.

When Robert, Kathryn’s husband of 41 years, was diagnosed in March 2022 with two rare forms of cancer, the Smiths turned to Dell Medical School. There they found a strong ally in oncologist Dr. William Matsui. Throughout the Smiths’ ongoing journey, Dr. Matsui has offered more than medical advice; he has provided emotional and psychological support and strategies on how to navigate the multiple challenges that accompany illness.

To express their gratitude for Dr. Matsui’s compassionate care and guidance, the couple has created The Robert S. and Kathryn D. Smith Lymphoma Research Fund, giving back to Dell Med and giving hope to future patients.

Staying Optimistic

Bob’s first indication something was amiss with his health came when he had trouble seeing the ball in a game of golf, one of his favorite retirement activities. Initially he didn’t give the problem much thought, but when the condition persisted for several months, he sought medical advice. Doctors told Bob the culprit was melanoma, and that the disease would rob him of his left eye.

“We thought that was the worst that could happen,” says Kathy. Unfortunately, a PET scan revealed Bob had enlarged lymph nodes, and he received a diagnosis of mantle cell lymphoma, a cancer completely unrelated to the melanoma. The bad news all landed within a two-week span. Having Kathy at his side has made a huge difference to Bob’s outlook; having the support of Dr. William Matsui has helped them both.

“We have been over-the-moon happy with how Dr. Matsui has worked with us through this difficult process,” says Bob. “He listens incredibly well, and he takes lots of time with us. Not all doctors have been that way.”

With Dr. Matsui’s help, the Smiths have developed an approach that works for them. Among their strategies is Kathy’s meticulous notetaking during Bob’s appointments, helping the couple keep track of treatment options. “Kathy’s the designated worrier; I’m the designated optimist,” jokes Bob.

Bob’s optimism extends to the potential of future breakthroughs by UT researchers. With their gift, the Smiths are helping to continue research for lymphoma treatment and cures in addition to showing genuine appreciation for Dr. Matsui and his approach to medicine and patients.

“Gifts like the one provided by Bob and Kathy Smith allow researchers to explore new ideas.”

Dr. William Matsui

Vice Dean of Research, Dell Medical School
Robert E. Askew, Sr., M.D. Chair in Oncology

Funding Medical Breakthroughs

During discussions with members of UT’s Gift and Estate Planning team, the Smiths learned they could transfer ownership of their life insurance policy to the University and receive significant income tax savings. The opportunity to do so gave them an easy way to achieve their philanthropic goals.

“The policy wasn’t factored into our retirement plan,” says Bob. “And even though Kathy and I are both accountants, we had never thought about the positive tax benefits of making this contribution. We would have thought a lot longer and a lot harder if we had to get our checkbook out and write the same size check.”

The Smiths can’t heap enough praise on Dr. Matsui, and he is equally appreciative of their decision to provide the funding essential for medical breakthroughs. “Gifts like the one provided by Bob and Kathy Smith allow researchers to explore new ideas,” says Dr. Matsui. “Donor funds act as a springboard for collaboration and give researchers the opportunity to take chances that can lead to breakthrough discoveries.”