For breast cancer survivor Elvia Gibbs, traveling from McAllen to Washington, D.C., was about more than advocating for legislation. It was an opportunity to tell lawmakers firsthand that cancer research and access to clinical trials can mean more time, hope, and quality of life for patients.

The significance of DHR Health Transplant Institute’s latest recognition extends far beyond a hospital ranking. It raises a larger question for South Texas: Has the Rio Grande Valley reached the point where patients can look to the region not only for local healthcare, but for nationally competitive transplant medicine?