To meet Tony Towler was to be energized. From the time he was diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer in 2011, he was a man on a mission to communicate the need for more research, advocacy, and a better understanding of the disease. A recognized figure at the Simmons Cancer Center, the tall, affable Englishman volunteered his time visiting with patients in the waiting areas. He was adept at bridging the gap of all cancer patients, creating a safe space for talking about their illness.
Tony was as famous for his sense of humor and life stories as he was his love of aviation, the latter of which he came by honestly as a proud veteran of the Royal Air Force. An engineer (aeronautics) by trade, he researched his cancer treatment options extensively before deciding on UT Southwestern. He and his wife, Victoria, immediately felt at home at the Kidney Cancer Program (KCP). That level of comfort combined with his natural drive to support and educate patients in the kidney cancer community made him a thoughtful advisor to the KCP.
He wanted kidney cancer patients to be able to connect with each other. Working with fellow kidney cancer patient Merlinda Chelette, the two co-founded the KCP’s Patient Advocacy Program. Wanting to do more, Tony helped launch initiatives like the KCP’s community lab tours, designed to raise awareness on the research being done.
Throughout his nine-year cancer journey, Tony stayed amazingly strong and vocal about the needs of kidney cancer patients. He pushed scientists and clinicians on the research front and was a courageous advocate for the patient community, not only for kidney cancer but all other cancers. He is remembered for his thoughtful and humane approach to everything he did. Openly sharing his stories – victories and struggles, he inspired everyone with his passion and determination.
The kidney cancer community will not be the same without Tony Towler nor will the KCP. We celebrate his legacy and continue working toward a cure.
