MD Anderson’s jet-setting supporters raise $81,000 in Aspen

What happens in Aspen … is good news for Houston.

Last weekend, a who’s who of MD Anderson Cancer Center physicians and supporters gathered at the Aspen Meadows Resort for the 19th annual “Making Cancer History” seminar.

Later, the group joined Bayou City vacationers at Barbara and Gerald

Hines’ Colorado home along the Roaring Fork River for a cocktail rendezvous.

The affair featured beachy décor. Banana palm chandeliers, hanging ferns and white string lights swayed inside a circular white tent. Island sounds wafted in from a xylophone stationed down by the water.

A festive buffet of Latin cuisine, including beef fajitas, Cuban mushroom tamales, empanadas, mini churros and arroz con leche, completed the scene.

“We’re so grateful to the doctors and MD Anderson,” Ellie Francisco said. She and her husband, Michael Francisco, have summered in Vail for the past 14 years; they’ve made a tradition out of driving to Apsen for “Making Cancer History.” “Michael’s had cancer several times. Ten years ago, he was diagnosed with his first cancer, so it’s become more meaningful for us.”

“The Rio Grande II,” an original abstract oil on canvas painting created by the hostess, sold to Sheree and Nelson

Frede, following their $17,500 winning silent auction bid. In total, the al fresco shindig brought in an impressive $81,000.

Shondia Houtzer photos Barbara Hines, left, and Estela Cockrell

Kelly Hicks, from left, Regan Hicks, Marshall Hicks, and Barbara and Gerald Hines

Drs. Ishwaria and Vivek Subbiah, from left, with Katie and Patrick Hwu

Ricke and Claire Thielke, from left, with George Lancaster

Regina Rogers, left, Dr. Jim Ray and Dr. Yvonne Cormier