Thomas Maguire and his children, Jonathan and Andrea, joined as a family to philanthropically support cancer research at Mass General in memory of their beloved wife and mother, Carolyne. Their gifts support research on pancreatic, bile duct and germ cell cancer — three very rare and devastating forms of the disease. The Maguires hope that their giving not only supports research in meaningful ways, but also raises public awareness for these uncommon forms of cancer.
Carolyne, who had been a nurse at Mass General in the 1970s, was diagnosed with stage IV cancer and was treated at the cancer center there. “The MGH doctors and nurses who treated her were caring, understanding and compassionate,” says Tom. Carolyne lost her battle with cancer nine years ago.
In addition to making annual gifts to Mass General for cancer research, Tom decided to create a legacy in his wife’s memory. He revised his estate plans to include a bequest to Mass General in Carolyne’s memory. His children encouraged him to make this gift: they felt, like Tom, a responsibility to help combat this devastating disease.
