Tampa General Hospital (TGH) has received a $2 million gift to establish the TGH Cancer Institute Sarcoma Center. The new center is committed to the diagnosis, treatment and research of sarcoma, a cancer of the bone and connective tissue.
The generous donation made by Pathmanath “Phil” Desilva will enable the academic health system to develop a center focused solely on the treatment and care of all subtypes of sarcoma. Desilva was inspired by the vision and innovative work being done at the TGH Cancer Institute, particularly by Dr. Victoria Rizk, a medical oncologist and clinical director of the Sarcoma Center. She has been leading the development of the Sarcoma Center.
Known as a highly thoughtful and kind person with an ability to connect with people from all walks of life, Desilva was a businessman and CEO of Yzer, a logistics service leader with facilities extending across the United States. His favorite phrase, “We’ll make it happen,” fueled his never-ending passion for helping make those around him successful. Unfortunately, he passed away on Sept. 5, 2023, but with the knowledge that his gift would directly impact the lives of thousands affected by this rare and aggressive cancer. The TGH Cancer Institute will continue his legacy and work tirelessly to help patients suffering from this disease.
Under Rizk’s leadership, the center will offer innovative research studies as well as the latest treatment advances and fund a growing comprehensive multidisciplinary clinic to include nurse navigation, genetic testing, social work services, psychology support and nutrition guidance. This directive shares the same goal of supporting sarcoma patients during their care. Throughout her academic career, Rizk has striven to advance sarcoma research with multiple peer-reviewed publications. Prior to joining Tampa General, she worked at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.
