Dr. Mark Girgis Named Director of the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases

The Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research is pleased to welcome Dr. Mark D. Girgis as the new Director of the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases.
As Director of the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases, Dr. Girgis will provide leadership across the Center’s clinical, research, and education programs. His appointment builds on his longstanding commitment to advancing innovative surgical care and developing new treatment approaches for patients with pancreatic and related cancers.

Dr. Girgis is an Associate Professor of Surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and Director of Robotic Surgery. He leads UCLA’s pancreatobiliary and gastroesophageal tumor multidisciplinary programs, bringing extensive expertise in pancreaticobiliary and gastric diseases and in robotic and minimally invasive surgical approaches.

His research program reflects his commitment to translating scientific discoveries into new options for patients. His work includes clinical trials conducted in collaboration with nuclear medicine, translational research investigating AXL inhibition as a potential treatment for pancreatic and bile duct cancers, and laboratory research focused on developing novel small molecules for radioligand-based imaging and therapy.

Dr. Girgis also brings significant leadership within the broader surgical oncology community. He serves as surgical chair of the neuroendocrine tumor guidelines for the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN), is an editor for Annals of Surgical Oncology, and serves on committees within several leading surgical oncology and cancer research organizations. He also serves as an Associate Program Director of the UCLA General Surgery Residency Program, where he mentors the next generation of surgeons.

“We are excited to welcome Dr. Girgis into this leadership role at the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases,” said Dr. Joe Hines, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery at the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA. “His expertise in surgical oncology, commitment to innovation, and dedication to multidisciplinary care make him an outstanding leader for the Center as we continue working to improve outcomes for people affected by pancreatic cancer.”

Dr. Girgis succeeds Dr. Timothy Donahue, who recently departed UCLA to become Chair of Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine and Surgeon-in-Chief at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Dr. Donahue has provided outstanding leadership and dedication to advancing pancreatic cancer care and research at UCLA. Dr. Donahue will remain on our Scientific Advisory Board and dear friend of the Foundation.

The Hirshberg Foundation established the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases to advance collaboration among clinicians, researchers, and patients and accelerate progress in pancreatic cancer care and research. Under Dr. Girgis’ leadership, the Center will continue its commitment to bringing innovative science and clinical expertise together to improve the lives of patients and families affected by pancreatic cancer.

The Hirshberg Foundation is delighted to welcome Dr. Girgis to this new leadership role. We look forward to partnering with him and the UCLA team as the Center builds on its strong legacy of collaboration, innovation, and compassionate care. Together, we will continue to drive innovative pancreatic cancer research and provide the highest standard of multidisciplinary care for patients and their families.

First RAS inhibitor approved by the FDA

Today daraxonrasib, an oral RAS(ON) multi-selective inhibitor from Revolution Medicines, was approved by the FDA for use by patients with previously treated metastatic pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) or for patients who are “not candidates for multiagent systemic therapy.” This approval was supported by the remarkable results from the Phase 3 clinical trial, RASolute 302, that demonstrated an unprecedented increase in overall survival (OS), increases in progression-free survival (PFS), and a differentiated safety profile compared with standard of care chemotherapy. This also is the first RAS inhibitor to be approved by the FDA for cancer therapy and will be sold under the name Rasonque.

This approval comes just over 1 month after Revolution Medicine’s New Drug Application (NDA) for daraxonrasib was accepted for review by the FDA, on July 22, 2026, capping off daraxonrasib’s whirlwind clinical development.

The initial first-in-human Phase 1/2 clinical trial, RMC-6236-001, started in June 2022 in patients with advanced solid tumors harboring RAS mutations. A phase 3 trial for previously treated metastatic PDAC patients, RASolute 302, began just over 2 years later in October 2024 based on the clear benefit and safety outcomes in the PDAC patients from that original trial.

On June 23, 2025, the FDA granted daraxonrasib Breakthrough Therapy Designation for treating patients with metastatic PDAC based on the promising results from the RMC-6236-001 trial. This designation allows the acceleration of the development and subsequent review of new therapies that treat diseases that have significant unmet needs. Daraxonrasib was awarded this designation, because of the early clinical evidence that demonstrated improvement in metastatic PDAC over other currently available therapies.

Additionally, on October 16, 2025, Revolution Medicines was awarded one of the first vouchers under FDA Commissioner’s National Priority Voucher Pilot Program for daraxonrasib. This program’s goal is to accelerate the development and subsequent review of therapies aligned with US health priorities with the goal of enhancing Americans’ health interests. This program allows approval data to be reviewed on a rolling basis as available, potentially cutting down FDA review of NDAs from 10-12 months to as quick as 30-90 days.

These events culminated in the announcement in April 2026 of the completion of the phase 3 RASolute 302 clinical trial touting unprecedented doubling of median overall survival over standard of care chemotherapies. Initial data was submitted to the FDA on April 28th, 2026 for approval for an Expanded Access Program (EAP) to provide daraxonrasib to previously treated, metastatic PDAC patients outside of a clinical trial setting and was granted by the FDA on May 1, 2026. Through the EAP Revolution Medicines has been able to supply more than 2,000 additional patients with daraxonrasib over the last 3 months.

The full data set was presented to a standing ovation on May 31, 2026 at the American Society for Clinical Oncologists Annual Meeting and concurrently published in the New England Journal of Medicine leading up to the accepted submission of the NDA on July 22, 2026.

While an approval of daraxonrasib for previously treated metastatic PDAC is exciting news, there are newly launched phase 3 clinical trials evaluating daraxonrasib in other PDAC patient populations; RASolute 303 (NCT07491445) in previously untreated patients with metastatic PDAC alone or in combination with chemotherapy and RASolute 304 (NCT07252232) in patients with resected PDAC following adjuvant chemotherapy treatment. Additionally, there are early-stage clinical trials evaluating the use of daraxonrasib with other targeted therapies including mutant specific RAS inhibitors. The results from these trials have the potential to expand approvals for daraxonrasib to more patient populations allowing many more patients to benefit from this emerging and potentially transformational therapy.

Discoveries like daraxonrasib are only possible because scientists were given the resources to pursue questions long before the answers were in sight. Without early-stage funding for bold ideas none of this would be possible. Now, more than ever, new treatment options, early detection, and hope for better outcomes is on the horizon.

Healing After Loss: A New Support Group for Families Grieving Pancreatic Cancer

The journey through pancreatic cancer does not end when treatment does. For many families, the loss of a loved one marks the beginning of a new chapter filled with grief, uncertainty, and the challenge of finding a path forward.

To help ensure no one must face that journey alone, the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research and Cancer Support Community South Bay (CSC South Bay) are proud to introduce Healing After Loss, a free virtual support group created specifically for those who have lost a loved one to pancreatic cancer.

Beginning Monday, September 14, 2026, the group will meet on the second Monday of every month from 5:00 to 6:30 PM via Zoom, providing a welcoming, confidential space where participants can connect with others who understand the unique experience of grieving pancreatic cancer.

For years, the Hirshberg Foundation and CSC South Bay have worked together to support patients and families through educational programs, our Day of Wellness, and community events such as Tour de Pier. This new bereavement group represents the next step in that partnership, extending care beyond diagnosis and treatment to meet families wherever they are in their journey.

” The need for support doesn’t end when you lose a loved one. Grief can feel incredibly isolating, especially after pancreatic cancer, where families often experience an intense and difficult journey together. We’re grateful to partner with CSC South Bay to offer Healing After Loss, creating a compassionate space where people can share their experiences, honor their loved ones, and find comfort in a community that truly understands.”

– Amy Reiss, Director of Patient Programs, Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research

The group will be facilitated by Brittany Anvari, LMFT, an experienced oncology therapist who has supported pancreatic cancer patients and families through CSC South Bay for more than six years. Brittany currently facilitates the pancreatic cancer support group and Family Partner Support Group and has led numerous cancer-specific support programs. Her experience working closely with the pancreatic cancer community makes her uniquely equipped to guide participants through the complexities of grief and healing.

Healing After Loss offers more than a place to talk. It provides an opportunity to connect with others who understand the emotions, challenges, and lasting impact of losing someone to pancreatic cancer. Through shared experiences and professional guidance, participants can develop healthy coping strategies while building meaningful connections with others walking a similar path.

The Hirshberg Foundation believes that caring for families means supporting them throughout every stage of the pancreatic cancer experience. By expanding our collaboration with CSC South Bay, we can continue providing meaningful resources that help families find strength, connection, and hope, even in the face of loss.

Join Healing After Loss

Healing After Loss: A Support Group for Those Who Have Lost a Loved One to Pancreatic Cancer

When: Second Monday of every month
Time: 5:00–6:30 PM (PT)
Where: Virtual via Zoom
Cost: Free
Facilitator: Brittany Anvari, LMFT

This support group is available to California residents through Cancer Support Community South Bay.

If you are already a CSC South Bay participant, contact Norma Gonzalez at norma@cscsouthbay.org or 310-376-3550 to join. New participants should complete a Welcome Orientation through CSC South Bay before attending.

Together, the Hirshberg Foundation and Cancer Support Community South Bay remain committed to ensuring that every member of the pancreatic cancer community has access to compassionate care, meaningful connection, and support – not only during treatment, but long after.

Supporting a Loved One After Pancreas Surgery

Caring for someone going through pancreatic cancer surgery is an act of deep compassion, and it can also feel overwhelming. From managing appointments to supporting recovery at home, caregivers play a critical role in a patient’s journey.

At the Hirshberg Foundation Symposium, Barbara Jagels, RN, MHA, CPHQ of UCLA Health, emphasized that caregivers are not just helpers, they are essential partners in care. Just as patients need support, caregivers need guidance, tools, and care for themselves as well. As you and your loved one prepare for surgery, these gentle reminders are helpful to have on hand.

You Are Part of the Care Team

Pancreatic cancer treatment often involves surgery, chemotherapy, and a complex recovery process. Caregivers are key to helping patients manage daily needs, track symptoms, and stay on course with their treatment plan in advance of and after surgery.

This can include:

Coordinating appointments and communication with the medical team
Helping monitor nutrition, medications, and symptoms
Supporting mobility and daily routines during recovery

Being involved early, and staying connected to the care team, can help you feel more prepared and confident. The Hirshberg Foundation is here to help support you as well.

Help Manage Nutrition and Recovery

Nutrition is one of the most important and challenging parts of recovery after pancreatic surgery. Caregivers will often take the lead in meal planning, encouraging consistent intake of food, and helping solve digestive issues that may arise.

Helpful ways to support include:

Prepare small, frequent meals to be eaten throughout the day
Prioritize protein-rich foods to aid healing
Watch for signs like weight loss, poor appetite, or digestive issues
Support the use of pancreatic enzymes if prescribed

Recovery doesn’t follow a straight line. Some days will be easier than others, and flexibility is key.

Encourage Movement

Fatigue can be significant, especially in the early weeks after surgery. Gentle encouragement to move can support recovery. It’s important to balance activity with rest and not do too much too soon.

Caregivers can help:

Encourage short, regular walks – even for 5 minutes
Support gradual increases in activity
Recognize when rest is needed

Watch for Changes

Caregivers are often the first to notice changes that may need medical attention. Keep an eye on:

Sudden weight loss or dehydration
Changes in bowel habits
Signs of infection or increased pain
Emotional changes, including anxiety or depression

When in doubt, reaching out to the care team is always the right step.

Support Emotional Well-Being

Pancreatic cancer treatment takes a toll not just physically, but emotionally. Patients may experience fear, frustration, or mood changes, especially during recovery.

One of the most powerful things a caregiver can do is simply be present. Listening, offering reassurance, and encouraging connection with support groups or counseling can make a meaningful difference.

It is also important to manage expectations. Understanding that recovery is nonlinear can help reduce frustration for both caregiver and patient.

Don’t Forget Yourself

Caregiving can be deeply rewarding but also exhausting. It’s common to put your own needs last, but doing so can lead to burnout. Taking care of yourself is not a luxury, it is essential.

Try to:

Accept help from others when it’s offered
Take short breaks to recharge
Stay connected to your own support system
Seek out caregiver-specific resources or support groups

You are doing something incredibly important. You deserve support, too.

A Shared Journey

Caregiving is a journey of resilience, patience, and compassion. While the road may be challenging, you are not alone. With the right support, information, and care you can help create a stronger, more supported path forward for both you and your loved one.

Caring for someone after Whipple surgery takes patience, compassion, and resilience. Remember, you don’t have to navigate this journey on your own. The Hirshberg Foundation is here with trusted resources, education, and support for patients, caregivers, and families every step of the way.

The Power of Emotional Support During Pancreatic Cancer Treatment

Pancreatic cancer treatment is physically demanding, and the emotional impact can be just as significant. From diagnosis through recovery, patients often experience a wide range of emotions, including fear, anxiety, frustration, and uncertainty. At the Hirshberg Foundation Symposium, Barbara Jagels, RN, MHA, CPHQ of UCLA Health emphasized a critical part of care that is sometimes overlooked: emotional support.

Her message was simple but powerful: plan your support, and use it.

Emotional Health Is Part of Treatment

It’s common for patients to focus on the physical and logistical aspects of treatment, the appointments, medications, and recovery milestones. But emotional well-being plays a direct role in overall health and quality of life.

Fatigue, stress, and mood changes are not just side effects; they are part of the experience. The first step toward managing these challenges is to acknowledge them.

Build Your Support System Early

Support looks different for everyone, but having a plan in place before treatment begins can make a significant difference. Your support system may include family and friends, caregivers, medical professionals, and support groups and peer communities. These individuals can help with practical needs, provide encouragement, and offer a sense of connection during a time that can feel isolating. You are not alone, there is community waiting to help you.

Accepting Help Is Strength

Many patients struggle with asking for or accepting help. Support is not a sign of weakness, it’s a critical part of navigating treatment. By allowing others to step in, to prepare meals, to attend appointments, or simply to sit with you, can ease both physical and emotional burdens. You don’t have to carry everything on your own.

The Role of Counseling and Support Groups

Professional support can be especially valuable. Counseling provides a space to process complex emotions, while support groups connect you with others who truly understand what you’re going through.

Community Resources

Organizations like the Cancer Support Community and CancerCare have local programs that offer resources, guidance, and community. Find a support group that works for you, there is a community waiting to support you.

Supporting the Support System

Caregivers and loved ones are also affected by the emotional weight of cancer. Open communication and shared understanding can strengthen these relationships and improve outcomes for everyone involved. Support works best when it flows both ways.

You Are Not Alone

Pancreatic cancer treatment can feel overwhelming, but connection can make it more manageable. Planning for emotional support, staying open to help, and engaging with others can provide strength during even the most difficult moments.

No one should have to face this journey alone, and with the right support, no one has to. The Hirshberg Foundation is here to support you every step of the way.

Increasing Survival Through Early Detection

At the 20th Annual Hirshberg Symposium, Dr. Margaret Tempero, the Director of the Cancer Early Detection and Interception Initiative and the leader of the Pancreas Center Program at the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, gave a wonderful overview of her work and how it’s now focused on Prevention and Surveillance for Pancreatic Cancer.

Dr. Tempero has spent 40 years working to reduce the burden of pancreatic cancer as an oncologist through treating patients, but over the last 3 years she has shifted her focus to the identification of people who are at a high risk for developing pancreatic cancer leading to earlier diagnoses and better outcomes and quality of life.

Risk Factors & Surveillance for High-Risk Individuals

There are multiple risk factors that have been associated with pancreatic cancer, some that can be controlled like smoking and alcohol use and others such as family history that are outside of one’s control. For high risk individuals, those with a strong family history of pancreatic cancer or who have a diagnosed genetic mutation is genes associated with hereditary pancreatic cancer, the NCCN guidelines recommend screening and surveillance to increase early detection in these people. Additionally, programs such as The Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection (PRECEDE) Consortium foster collaboration across institutions and aim to study a large number of high-risk individuals with the goal to understand and stratify patient risk and provide information to guide clinical decision making.

The CEDI Initiative

Except for people with certain hereditary predispositions, there is currently no screening for pancreatic cancer for the general public and this is similar for most types of cancer. To address that unmet need, Dr. Tempero created the Cancer Early Detection and Interception (CEDI) Initiative at UCSF with the goal of eliminating the burden of deadly cancers through more efficient early detection.

The CEDI initiative is evaluating rational, cost-effective, and equitable ways to increase early detection and these include explorations of imaging technologies, artificial intelligence, biomarker discovery, and education and outreach. Their Cancer Diagnostic Service exists to support anyone who has a potential cancer signal to get the appropriate tests and care in a knowledgeable and efficient manner.

Tools for Earlier Detection

The ability to stratify the general population into risk groups for potential screening would increase the ability to detect cancer earlier in patients without a hereditary or genetic predisposition for pancreatic cancer. There are multiple initiatives being developed and validated to help achieve this. One tool under development is blood-based screening for cancers.

Blood-Based Screening

PancreaSure (Immunovia) and Avantect (Clearnote) are two such tests specific to pancreatic cancer which are being optimized in the hopes to detect pancreatic cancer early, when treatment options are more favorable for resection.

Multi-Cancer Detection (MCD)

There are also mutli-cancer detection (MCD) tests such as Galleri (Grail) and Cancer Guard (Exact Sciences) that are under development and being tested in clinical trials for eventual use for this purpose.

Other tools include using artificial intelligence (AI) to identify clinical patterns or radiographic evidence of pancreas dysfunction in large data sets to speed up identifying people who may be at high risk for developing pancreatic cancer.

Due, in part, to the initiatives that Dr. Tempero and others have focused on, she believes that the ability to identify high-risk individuals with no family predisposition is fast approaching. This means the potential for earlier and more actionable diagnosis of patients with pancreatic cancer and the power to increase quality of life and survival for those individuals. The Hirshberg Foundation is proud to fund research that will increase early detection and to be part of the PRECEDE Consortium through The Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases at UCLA.