At the Hirshberg Foundation, we remain dedicated to funding groundbreaking research, supporting patients and caregivers, and rallying communities to raise awareness.
20 Years of Impact: Celebrating the Seed Grant Program
For two decades, the Hirshberg Foundation’s Seed Grant Program has been a catalyst for innovation, providing early-stage funding to researchers pursuing promising ideas in pancreatic cancer. This year, we highlight remarkable career achievements and discoveries made by past awardees, from Dr. Guido Eibl, a 2010 awardee who now leads the Hirshberg Translational Research Lab at UCLA, to Dr. Alexandra Demcsak, a researcher in the Sahin-Toth Lab, advancing our understanding of pancreatitis and its genetic underpinnings. We are also incredibly proud of Dr. Jami Saloman for receiving an R01 grant from NCI based on her Seed Grant research and Dr. Marina Pasca di Magliano’s exceptional career and her collaborative research program at the University of Michigan. Their groundbreaking findings are shedding light on disease mechanisms and potential therapies.
The Seed Grant Program’s legacy extends beyond its initial funding—many recipients go on to secure major federal grants and drive life-changing discoveries. With your support, we can continue planting the seeds for the next wave of breakthroughs.
Our Commitment to Patient Support Programs
The challenges pancreatic cancer patients face extend beyond medical treatment; a diagnosis can impact every aspect of life. The Hirshberg Foundation remains committed to deepening our investment in patient support services and resources to meet this need. We are proud to continue sponsoring the NCCN Guidelines for Patients, an essential, expert-approved resource designed to help individuals and caregivers navigate pancreatic cancer with clarity and confidence. An updated version will be released later this year. In addition to providing educational resources, our long-standing partnership with CancerCare helps low-income patients navigating the hardest moments of their journey find a reprieve from a portion of their co-pay, transportation to treatment, essential medications, and unforeseen medical costs. We aim to ease the financial strain so patients can focus on healing. Your support helps patients access critical information to take control of their journey with knowledge and confidence.
19th Annual Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer
Our 19th Annual Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer is right around the corner! This free, in-person, and virtual event is a cornerstone of our mission to educate and empower patients, caregivers, and the broader medical community. With expert-led sessions covering critical topics such as nutrition, movement, mindfulness, and medical cannabis for symptom management, attendees will gain invaluable insights and practical strategies for navigating a pancreatic cancer diagnosis. We encourage everyone to join us for this empowering day of knowledge and support.
Pedal for a Purpose at the Tour de Pier
The Tour de Pier is back for another inspiring year! On May 18, 2025, we will gather in Manhattan Beach for this one-of-a-kind stationary cycling event, bringing together fitness, fundraising, and community spirit. Every dollar raised fuels vital research and patient support programs, helping us move closer to a cure. Whether you ride, donate, or volunteer, your participation makes a difference.
From research to education to fundraising, we are united in advancing pancreatic cancer research and supporting those affected. Whether you attend our Symposium, ride in the Tour de Pier, or learn more about our Seed Grant Program, you play a vital role in our progress.
Together, we can move closer to a future where proactive prevention, early detection, and new treatment options transform outcomes for pancreatic cancer patients. Thank you for being part of this journey!
