Co-Founders Dr. Amy Lang, Amy Oefinger and Lynn Stahl first shared the vision that would become ThriveWell Cancer Foundation nearly two decades ago. From the very beginning, Dr. Lon Smith, Medical Oncologist with the START Center for Cancer Care and its President and CEO, stood beside them as a trusted supporter of that vision. His unwavering belief in caring for the whole patient, not just the disease, has made him one of the strongest champions of ThriveWell’s work since the earliest days when the idea was simply Derive Inspiration and Vitality through Activity (DIVA).
Dr. Smith graduated from Rice University and earned his medical degree from LSU Medical School, later completing his fellowship in medical oncology at MD Anderson Hospital. Throughout his distinguished career, he has remained deeply committed to advancing cancer care in San Antonio, not only through innovative treatment, but through meaningful partnerships that ensure patients receive the support they need outside the clinic as well. His leadership at the START Center reflects the same philosophy that has guided his relationship with ThriveWell for 19 years.
His steadfast support helped turn an idea into action, and that action has now served thousands of cancer patients and their families across our community. With the encouragement of longtime partners like Dr. Smith, ThriveWell has been able to grow programs that remove barriers to care and allow patients to focus on healing.
ThriveWell’s Patient Assistance Program is designed to help cancer patients comply with their prescribed treatment plans by providing transportation, financial assistance, and lodging support to those in need. 
The goal is to give every patient the best possible chance of beating the disease while eliminating the added stressors that often come with a cancer diagnosis. Through the end of 2025, ThriveWell has provided more than $15,185,835 in direct assistance, helping cover treatment costs, transportation, and lodging since the inception of the program.
Dr. Smith has also supported the original spirit behind DIVA, now known as the Diva&Dude Program, which provides free exercise, nutrition, and wellness classes for cancer patients and survivors across San Antonio and surrounding areas. Research shows that cancer patients who follow diet and exercise guidelines can significantly reduce their chance of recurrence, and this program continues to give survivors the tools to live stronger, healthier lives.
He has also been a strong advocate for the importance of research and innovation in cancer care. Through ThriveWell’s Research Program, more than $950,000 has been invested in 43 research projects taking place right here in our community, supporting advances in treatment for prostate, liver, bladder, ovarian, breast, brain, lung, and other cancers.
Dr. Smith’s support of ThriveWell has never wavered. From the earliest days of a new idea to the strong and growing organization it is today, he has remained a trusted partner, advisor, and advocate for our patients. With dedicated partners like Dr. Lon Smith standing alongside us, ThriveWell is able to continue doing the work that matters most, helping cancer patients focus on healing while our community stands beside them.