Public Health

The Maryland Center is proud to celebrate the opening of the Quantum Computing Breakthrough Against Cancer Center, an initiative that represents the intersection of scientific innovation, public service, and one woman’s extraordinary journey.

During the opening ceremony, Terry Lawlah shared the deeply personal story that inspired the vision behind the center. Her remarks traced the path from an unexpected cancer diagnosis to helping launch an initiative focused on changing the future of cancer treatment.

“September 4, 2023, was an ordinary day. It was sunny, there wasn’t a cloud in the sky, and I played tennis for six hours that day.”

Later that evening, everything changed.

“A CT scan later, my life changed forever. I was diagnosed with Stage 4 ovarian cancer.”

Rather than allowing the diagnosis to define her future, Terry made a decision that would ultimately help inspire this groundbreaking initiative.

“After the initial disbelief faded and calmer heads prevailed, I made a decision: this disease was not going to get the best of me.”

Throughout her career, she explained, she had spent her life advocating for others. That perspective shaped how she approached her own diagnosis.

“I tried to look beyond myself and ask a different question: What did God want me to do with this? There had to be a purpose.”

That search for purpose led to conversations with fellow members of a prayer group, including another individual battling cancer. Together they reached a simple but powerful conclusion.

“If we were serious about confronting cancer, we needed to bring every tool available to bear, including the most advanced technologies of our time.”

That vision eventually became the foundation for the Quantum Computing Breakthrough Against Cancer Center through a special congressional appropriation and the support of numerous public and private partners.

The new center brings together the University of Maryland School of Public Health, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), researchers, government leaders, and healthcare innovators to explore how quantum computing can accelerate breakthroughs in cancer research and treatment.

During her remarks, Terry also recognized the support of Maryland’s congressional delegation, including Congressman Steny Hoyer, Senator Chris Van Hollen, and Senator Angela Alsobrooks, whose leadership helped make the initiative possible.

The ceremony concluded with a hopeful vision for what lies ahead.

“This effort brings together science, innovation, public service, faith, and determination around a single goal: changing the future of cancer treatment.”

And perhaps the most memorable words of the day:

“History has shown that when brilliant minds unite around a great challenge, extraordinary things happen. I believe we are witnessing the beginning of one of those moments. And I believe, with all my heart, that one day we will conquer cancer.”

The opening served as a reminder that behind every scientific breakthrough is a human story of resilience, hope, faith, and determination. The Maryland Center is honored to share Terry Lawlah’s inspiring message and celebrate the launch of an initiative that has the potential to impact countless lives for generations to come.

View photos from the event:
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