Houston Methodist Hospital has announced a gift of $101 million from billionaire oilman Joseph C. "Rusty" Walter, his wife, Paula, and the Walter Oil & Gas Corporation to accelerate neuroscience research efforts at the hospital.

Described as the largest philanthropic gift in HMH's nearly century-long history, the gift, which includes $66 million in matching funds, will support a major increase in the number of endowed chairs and research and teaching positions at the hospital, and will be used to leverage the Walters' funding of its Translational Research Initiative, a matching-fund program designed to help researchers shorten the often-lengthy delay between a scientific discovery and its successful application in humans. In recognition of the gift, the hospital's newest building will be renamed the Paula and Joseph C. "Rusty" Walter III Tower.

The largest portion of the gift — some $32 million, according to the Houston Chronicle — will establish an innovation fund in support of a platform for physicians with new ideas, with the goal of promoting greater collaboration between scientists and researchers working to e and develop solutions across disciplines.

In 2013, Walter suffered a stroke while on a hunting trip and sought experimental treatments at HMH to limit the damage to his brain. He was enrolled in an experimental stem cell trial that sought to reduce the inflammatory response and preserve brain function. Subsequently, Walter enrolled in another trial which tested a helmet that uses an electromagnetic field to stimulate key brain signals, potentially correcting neurological imbalance caused by stroke. "It was during this experience that we saw firsthand how close the field of neurology is to making significant breakthroughs," Walter said. "As I continue to recover from my stroke, Paula and I thought we could help make a difference by supporting research through the Walter Neurological Restoration Initiative."

"The Walters are treasured members of our Houston Methodist family, so we are deeply moved by their generosity," said HMH president and CEO Marc Boom. "This gift will fund some of the world's best physicians and scientists, bringing important cures and treatments to our patients."

(Photo credit: Houston Chronicle)