“The House That Bob Built”

A special celebration and research seminar honoring Robert C. Seeger, MD, was held at the Saban Research Institute on August 23, 2017. Seeger, who joined CHLA in 1989 as research director in the Division of Hematology-Oncology at CHLA, was celebrated for his years of leadership as former director of translational and basic science at the Children’s Center for Cancer and Blood Diseases and leader of the Cancer and Blood Diseases Research Program at The Saban Research Institute.

Dr. Seeger’s presentation was introduced by Yves DeClerck, MD, who gave a brief overview of some of his major scientific contributions that illustrated, in particular, his effort and perseverance in bringing his research from the “Bench to the Bedside”.

Seeger gave a presentation titled “Cancer Immunology and Immunotherapy: From Wishful Thinking to Reality,” illuminating important advances in cancer immunology and immunotherapy including how neuroblastoma cells can be targeted and destroyed by cells of the immune system. These advances are improving treatment for both children and adults with cancer.

Seeger concluded his presentation with a photo of his wife, Melinda, who passed away earlier this year. He spoke about how meaningful it was to share his life’s work with her.

Following the presentation, personal acknowledgements of Seeger’s extensive contributions were provided by colleagues Dr. DeClerck, Michele Kipke, PhD, Brent Polk, MD, Brad Peterson, MD, and Alan Wayne, MD who all thanked Dr. Seeger for his scientific leadership at CHLA, his mentorship, his example as a physician-scientist and his collaborative approach to research.

Wayne spoke about his trips to CHLA prior to accepting the position of director of CCCBD and how he felt that in moving here, he was coming to “the house that Bob built”. “I agreed to accept the position with the understanding that Bob Seeger would never retire,” said Wayne. Given that Seeger has been instrumental in acquiring $17.5 million of research grants this year, Wayne is likely to get his wish.