Pillars of Their Community: The Rita and William Mitchell, MD Donor Wall A tribute to one monumental family and their ongoing generosity to the Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center By Olivia Watson | Photo: Beth Burris
A healer and teacher at heart, William Mitchell, MD served the Gulf South medical community for decades. Passionate about understanding the causes of diseases, Dr. Mitchell was drawn to pathology and began specialized training at Tulane University following his graduation from medical school in the 1950s. In 1956, his career took a slight detour when he was drafted by the U.S. army to serve in Tokyo, Japan, as a medical officer. But it was this twist of fate that brought him the love of his life, Rita Wallenius, an American who was also overseas working for the army. When they returned, Dr. Mitchell went on to complete his residency at Tulane and Ochsner Health. The rest is history.
The new donor wall in the Gayle and Tom Benson Cancer Center was made possible thanks to the generosity of Mrs. Mitchell. The wall is dedicated in memory of Dr. William T. Mitchell, Jr.
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June/July 2022
