Dr. Jerry D. Slater recounts how his father’s vision and his own innovations helped bring proton therapy from an idea in a physics paper to a healing force that has transformed cancer care worldwide.

Episode Highlights

  • 2:00 – From teaching physics to medicine
  • 6:58 – Robert Wilson’s article inspires Dr. Slater’s father
  • 17:35 – The brotherhood of the balloon
  • 22:52 – Getting hit by a car at Christmas

Meet Our People

Jerry D. Slater, MD

Radiation Oncologist

Dr. Jerry D. Slater is chair of the Department of Radiation Medicine at Loma Linda University Health and a recognized leader in proton therapy. A graduate of Loma Linda University School of Medicine, he grew up helping his father, Dr. James Slater, in the radiation lab and eventually followed him into the specialty. While completing his residency, his father called to share a bold plan to build the world’s first hospital-based proton therapy center. That conversation marked the beginning of his lifelong commitment to advancing the technology and treating thousands of cancer patients. Today, he continues his father’s legacy through innovation, mentorship, and an enduring belief in the Loma Linda University Health mission to unite faith and healing.

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