The Cunniff-Dixon Foundation (CDF) was born from a deeply personal mission to honor exceptional care at life’s most fragile moments. Founded in 2005 by Andy Baxter, the late visionary behind CDF, the foundation celebrates and advances palliative care through its national physician and nursing awards program. This initiative recognizes clinicians who embody excellence, compassion, and dedication in end-of-life care.

Andy Baxter, Founder and his wife Carley Cunniff.

Since 2010, in partnership with the Hastings Center, CDF has awarded over $1 million to 60 outstanding recipients who exemplify the highest standards of palliative care. These awardees, chosen by our distinguished selection committees, reflect not only clinical excellence but also the humility, heart, and humanity that define the foundation’s ethos.

Peter Dixon, MD

The story of CDF begins with Carley Cunniff, whose courageous three-year battle with breast cancer ended in January 2005. Carley was under the guiding care of Dr. Peter S. Dixon, a physician whose timeless practice of “good doctoring” brought her comfort and dignity. Though not formally trained in palliative care, Dr. Dixon’s compassionate guidance allowed Carley to pass peacefully at home, surrounded by family and loved ones. His care left an indelible mark on Carley’s husband, Andy Baxter, inspiring him to establish CDF in her memory and in recognition of Dr. Dixon’s extraordinary dedication and care.

Today, Dr. Peter Dixon continues to practice medicine in a small Connecticut town, embodying the same spirit of care that shapes CDF’s mission. Our awardees carry forward this legacy, delivering exceptional palliative care with the same competence, empathy, and humanity that defined Dr. Dixon’s approach.