Photographer Gives Back Through Art and Philanthropy

In 2016, avid photographer Ginny Curtin underwent knee replacement surgery. During a routine follow-up after a successful surgery, she casually mentioned a knot in her leg that she assumed was a pulled hamstring. But after an examination, the tone in the room quickly shifted. Her orthopedic surgeon suggested an immediate MRI and biopsy.

Ginny was referred to Howard G. Rosenthal, MD, at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. Rather than a simple muscle strain, the tests revealed stage III myxofibrosarcoma, a rare and aggressive soft tissue cancer.

With no family history of cancer, she was stunned at the news. Under Dr. Rosenthal’s expertise, Ginny underwent 40 rounds of radiation and surgery to remove the lemon-sized tumor in her leg. She then spent 18 months in wound care, facing the challenge of closing the wound.

A follow-up scan brought unexpected news: The cancer had returned, crossing the midline of her body, to form a mass on the right ribcage. This defied anything ever documented about this type of sarcoma, but given its rarity, her doctors knew to expect the unexpected. Surgery to remove the mass was performed immediately, followed by more radiation.

Despite the intense treatment and ongoing highs and lows of her condition, Ginny stayed deeply grateful for the care and credits her medical team for her continued progress.

“I’m so blessed to have Dr. Rosenthal and this great sarcoma team as my providers. And the fact that the team is world-renowned and just in my backyard – literally my same area code – is just the biggest blessing,” Ginny says.

Showing signs of success after her treatments, Ginny was eager to get back out into the world, a sentiment her care team understood deeply. Fitted with a brace and her doctor’s approval, Ginny returned to what makes her feel most alive – traveling and photography. Ginny’s doctors knew that for her mental and physical health, she needed to stay active and connected to the things she loves.

“[My care team] genuinely listens and works alongside me. Their understanding and clear communication has allowed me to still do what I love within the boundaries of my care,” Ginny says.

Ginny’s type of cancer requires ongoing monitoring and treatment, but under the guidance of her medical team, she’s found a rhythm that’s best for her. Every 6 months, she returns for scans and ongoing care, but the rest of the time she’s out in the world – capturing its beauty through her lens.

Once given a grim prognosis of just 18 months to live, Ginny has defied the odds under the care of Dr. Rosenthal and medical oncologist Benjamin C. Powers, MD. Now, 6 years since that prognosis, her condition is stabilized and far more hopeful.

With each visit back to the Sarcoma Center, Ginny brings stories and photos from her travels. Her vibrant images of wildlife from around the globe have become something the nurses, receptionists and doctors look forward to seeing. Now, her pictures are displayed throughout the center, hanging in treatment rooms and rotating on digital displays, bringing small moments of joy and beauty to patients and staff alike.

“No one wants to be having to deal with cancer. No one wants to have to be there [at the Sarcoma Center]. If I can bring something into that space that brings a sense of calm – why would I not?” she said.

Her generosity extends even further. Ginny has pledged a portion of her estate to support the sarcoma team at The University of Kansas Cancer Center. She is passionate about ensuring future patients receive the same expert medical care and compassion she has received.

“[A legacy gift] was a no-brainer for me. The care I have had is phenomenal – truly world-class. I can’t think of anything better to invest in,” Ginny says.