My wife was pregnant only a short time before we had the ‘name discussion.’ In her faith there’s a beautiful tradition of giving a baby the name of a beloved deceased relative, thereby providing a way of honoring their memory. We wanted to keep that tradition alive.

Her childhood was influenced by her late Grandmother Dorothy whom she considered a perfect role model. My father's mother, Gramma Nellie shaped mine. Nell Dorothy seemed the perfect name for the daughter we couldn’t wait to meet.

Finding the right name for a magazine was a bit more difficult than naming our child, but for the staff, the criteria was similar – to honor a tradition and keep it alive.

Since the 1920s the KU School of Medicine and later the KU Medical Center have been located at 39th and Rainbow. The address is the pivot point for all that we do as an academic medical center; a common point of reference for every student, patient and initiative. We have outreach sites across the state, a great campus in Wichita, and collaborations with partners throughout the nation and globe. Yet, for KU Medical Center members, no matter where they pursue the mission, no matter where the lives they touch are located, 39th and Rainbow is and always will be home.

39th and Rainbow is not just a point on a map, it’s a tradition. Our goal for this new publication is to reflect the essence of KUMC as the intersection of opportunity and ingenuity; the epicenter of innovation; a place of healing and hope.

Each issue will be dedicated to one aspect of the work at 39th and Rainbow, sharing in-depth perspectives and research as well as personal profiles of the passionate professionals who make this address what it is today. Our first issue focuses on cancer.

Regular departments will include features such as Diversions, highlighting fun and unique things to do at 39th and Rainbow related to good health; Good Neighbors, focusing on KUMC activities with our many community partners; Connections, a tribute to the many donors who support the work of the medical center; By the Numbers, illuminating health statistics; Kudos, documenting the achievements of alumni, faculty, staff, and friends. And, last but not least, Picture of Health connecting readers of the essence of what the KU Medical Center is ultimately all about.

We hope you’ll join us in celebrating the birth of 39th and Rainbow! As the publication becomes a new tradition, we welcome your guidance and feedback.