agg
@ National Foundation

SUITE 300

WASHINGTON 6, 0. C.

for RESEARCH in Ulcerative Colitis

1700 K STREET N.W.
Office of the President

4500 Lyndale Avenue North
Minneapolis l2,Minnesota

 

JA} den.

December 28, 1964

Dr. Michael E, De Bakey, Chairman
Department of Surgery

Baylor University College of Medicine
Houston, Texas

Dear Dr. De Bakey:

I've just finished reading - with pleasure and a growing
sense of excitement - the excellent "Program" worked out, by your
Presidential Commission. It is a remarkable job. I hope it
produces decisive results. ,

Remembering the pleasure I had working with you on the
legislation for the National Library of Medicine and the great
sense of satisfaction I've had since it came into being, I'm very
sorry to have been travelling when the announcement of the Com-
mission was made. I should have liked to offer to help.

I write now on the assumption that the Heart and Cancer
Association and other groups which worked with you will be creating
a combined force to work for the legislative proposals contained in
the "Program". Certainly this is a most immediately necessary step.

If such a group is organized and if, on the basis of our mutual
experience, you believe me qualified, I should be happy to consider
serving with such a group in any of several capacities, but particular~
ly in connection with liaison with the House, the Senate and the
White House.

I've retired from the Senate and agreed to serve this fine but
woefully underfinanced little Foundation as executive director
through 1964. I've reorganized it; changed its name to the Digestive
Disease Foundation and started it on its way. So I'll be free come
January.

On the chance that you'll be interested, I'm enclosing some
biographical data.

 

 

 

 
De Bakey, Dr. Michael E. -2- December 28, 1964

Turning again to the Library, I want you to know that
I believe Marty Cummings a wonderful director. He's keen,
forceful, intelligent and knowledgeable. A distinct improve~
ment over the good Colonel. I hope we can get him five
million for extra mural activities next year. I'm sure you'll
be trying. -I'll be doing my best with John Fogarty.

With best wishes for the holiday season and warm regards,

Sincerely,
. Lit

William G. Reidy
Executive Director

Enclosure