Bob Paquette, a retired FBI agent and former police chief, has credited Baptist Health Jacksonville with saving his life after he was diagnosed with severe aplastic anemia. After retiring to Hilton Head, South Carolina, Paquette faced an unexpected health crisis in late 2019 when routine blood tests revealed dangerously low blood cell counts. Despite multiple transfusions and inconclusive tests at other facilities, he found specialized care at Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center in Jacksonville.
“When I finally heard I’d be able to see someone able to evaluate and treat this, it was a tremendous relief,” Paquette said.
Dr. Maxim Norkin, hematologist-oncologist at Baptist MD Anderson, diagnosed Paquette with severe aplastic anemia—a rare condition that can be fatal if untreated. Treatment began immediately at Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville and included immunosuppressive therapy as well as ongoing transfusions. Paquette’s condition stabilized under the center’s care.
Paquette continues to receive treatment and regular checkups at Baptist MD Anderson. He and his wife Patricia expressed gratitude for the support they received from medical staff and administrators throughout his treatment process.
“They were totally supportive, and their expertise was critical in identifying and treating my issue,” said Bob Paquette.
Patricia Paquette added: “They were very reassuring and supportive, and continue to be. Everybody was readily available if we needed anything and would stop by and see how we were doing.”
The couple decided to give back by endowing a $1 million gift to help establish the Cellular and Stem Cell Transplant Program at Baptist MD Anderson. Dr. Norkin is serving as medical director of this new program. They have also created funds supporting research, training, patient education, and bone marrow transplants within the institution.
“We greatly appreciate the donations from the Paquettes, which are a tremendous help for the start of our program and operation,” Dr. Norkin said.
Patricia Paquette explained her motivation: “A simple ‘thank you’ for saving his life didn’t seem enough. I decided what a great way to show thanks by starting a fund to help him with the endeavor.”
Bob Paquette emphasized his appreciation for the care he received: “I’m just happy to do it and know they will put the money to a very good cause. It will benefit a lot of people and continue on for ages… Many people will be successfully treated by these innovative therapies.”
He added: “Everybody at Baptist MD Anderson has a smile on their face… They want to see you get better… They want you to walk out with a smile on your face.”
According to Baptist Health Jacksonville, philanthropic contributions such as those from the Paquettes play an important role in allowing facilities like Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center to provide advanced care both regionally and beyond.
