Lawrence Einhorn, MD
The children of Indianapolis philanthropists Sidney and Lois Eskenazi have made a $2 million gift to the Indiana University School of Medicine to be used to recruit a highly accomplished researcher focused on discovering new ways to treat, diagnose, and prevent cancer. The gift, to honor their parents, was inspired by Lois Eskenazi’s diagnosis with lung cancer several years ago. She sought treatment from Indiana University oncologist Lawrence Einhorn, MD, renowned for his work in testicular and lung cancers.
“At the initial diagnosis, the results weren’t good, but we were very lucky, and it was operable, so it’s been a success story for us,” said David Eskenazi, who made the gift along with his sisters, Sandra Eskenazi and Dori Eskenazi Meyers. “I understand that’s not the case for everybody. But it’s always getting better because of people like Dr. Einhorn, the individuals he works with at the Indiana University School of Medicine, and the research they do. Year after year, they’re making cancer more treatable and curable. My sisters and I are honored to be able to do something to recognize that.”
Dr. Einhorn, Distinguished Professor and Livestrong Foundation Professor of Oncology, will lead the search for a top-flight researcher focused on lung cancer. The individual will join a team of about 200 researchers at the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Cancer Center. The newly recruited faculty member will be known as the Sidney and Lois Eskenazi Professor in Hematology-Oncology.
Income from the endowed fund will provide the faculty researcher with the flexibility to launch early-stage investigations, purchase necessary equipment, and hire laboratory staff. Thanks to a gift-matching program that is part of For All: The Indiana University Bicentennial Campaign, the financial support available each year will essentially be doubled. ■
