MD Anderson Memorial Plaza Dedicated
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JACKSON, Tenn. – M.D. Anderson is a name synonymous with cancer research and treatment. But many West Tennesseans may not know that M.D. Anderson was from Jackson. Tuesday, in downtown Jackson, the plaza between the two federal building along North Highland Avenue was named in honor of the famous Jacksonian and businessman. “I’m so happy to be able to be here,” said Barbara Day, a two-time cancer survivor who was treated at M.D. Anderson Cancer Treatment Center. “I am able to be here because of the doctors at M.D. Anderson.” Day said both doctors in Texas and in Jackson helped her beat the disease. Day’s husband, Richard, chaired the effort to have the memorial established. He said after his wife was treated at the Texas medical facility, he began contacting lawmakers to set up a memorial in honor of his fellow Jacksonian. “The history of Jackson, Tennessee, is not complete without a story of M.D. Anderson and the Clayton family,” said Richard Day. “They started the Anderson-Clayton Cotton Company, which was the largest cotton trading company in the world during the last century.” Tennessee Congressman Stephen Fincher was on hand for the dedication. He presented the bill to Congress, which approved the memorial. “Sometimes people in Washington forget, but this is the heartbeat out here, small places like Jackson,” said Fincher. “This is a great day for Jackson.” In December, a nine-foot statue will be erected in the plaza.
