UAB: Comprehensive Cancer Center

Seeds for a new radiation oncology space were planted as early as 2003, but the Hazelrig-Salter Radiation Oncology Facility did not become a reality until 2005 when UAB and the Comprehensive Cancer Center launched a formal fundraising effort called “Rays of Hope.”

An 18-member committee of community leaders, including several cancer survivors, directed Rays of Hope. More than 400 people donated to the effort to help reach the $15-million goal. Two of the most significant gifts came from Birmingham businessmen W. Cobb Hazelrig and James Limbaugh.

Mr. Hazelrig generously donated $5 million to name the new building in honor of his parents and their lifelong friends Paul Salter, M.D., and Merle Salter, M.D., the former chair of the Department of Radiation Oncology.

Mr. Limbaugh donated $1 million to establish the James F. Limbaugh Family Park of Hope in Memory of Phyllis Limbaugh. Named after Mr. Limbaugh’s late wife, the park provides an inviting green space for patients and their families in front of the new facility.