As summer kicks into gear with family vacations, hot temps, and cool adventures, the Hirshberg Foundation looks forward to sharing the latest updates with our foundation family. Your efforts throughout the year, from fundraising to event participation, have ushered in another season of groundbreaking scientific advances and patient support. Soon researchers will submit proposals for our annual Seed Grant Program, as patients, caregivers, and families gather again for seasonal events that educate and energize our community. We thank you for your continued support as we raise awareness and Never Give Up in the fight for a cure!
A Pancreatic Cancer Progress Report
At our Annual Hirshberg Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer we had the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Eileen O’Reilly, a member of our Scientific Advisory Board from Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, to speak. She discussed the genetics of the disease and the latest developments in pancreatic cancer treatments, immunotherapy, and vaccine approaches currently in development. With a new FDA-approved drug for pancreatic cancer, targeted treatments, and other emerging approaches, Dr. O’Reilly shared, “You’ll see that there’s real progress happening, and we’re on the cusp of important developments in this disease that hopefully will translate to improved outcomes.”
Supporting & Educating Patients in June
In June, we honored the courage of pancreatic cancer survivors around the world throughout National Cancer Survivors Month. Survivors, caregivers, and families impacted by this disease generously shared messages of hope and expressed support for patients and survivors setting out on a journey to wellness. This was on the heels of our spring Symposium and the release of educational videos that educate and empower both patients and caregivers. This year’s Symposium included important topics such as improving patient care through a partnership with Canopy Cancer Collective, genetic testing, pancreatic enzyme education, survivorship in pancreatic cancer and PRECEDE, the international collaborative study to improve early detection. We encourage everyone to check out the wide array of topics, especially our inspiring panel discussion, where survivors and caregivers share their experiences, wisdom, and hope.
Esteemed Journal Shares Agi Hirshberg’s Journey
In July, Pancreas, a scientific journal of pancreatic diseases, published a beautiful article spotlighting our founder Agi Hirshberg’s story, and her unwavering commitment to cure pancreatic cancer. It is a story that all of us can connect with; every family’s journey with pancreatic cancer is unique and yet so familiar. At the heart of these stories is a desire to empower loved ones, ensure that no one faces this disease alone, and ultimately, eradicate pancreatic cancer once and for all. In the article, titled Our Lady of Hope, writer Shweta Lavania shares “a tale of compassion, inspiration, and true labor of love.” This interview will resonate with you, and we hope you’ll check it out.
Registration is Open for the 27th Annual LA Cancer Challenge
Our signature event, the LA Cancer Challenge 5K Walk/Run is coming up on October 27th and registration is officially open. This incredible event unites families, survivors, and the medical community for an extraordinary day raising awareness. The LACC is more than a 5K, this event will inspire you! Come participate in our Fit Family Expo, Candyland Kids Zone, Halloween costume contests, and much more. Join us in-person at UCLA or virtually from wherever you are, and know that your participation brings us closer to a cure.
Make a Lasting Impact on Research for Make-A-Will Month
National Make-A-Will Month is coming up in August. In the spirit of supporting our mission and advancing pancreatic cancer research in the future, we invite you to learn more about estate planning. A gift in your will has the power to change patient outcomes and drive cancer research forward beyond your lifetime. Through FreeWill: a free online state planning tool, you can support your loved ones, protect your possessions, continue philanthropic efforts, and secure your legacy. We also encourage you to learn about other ways to give from matching event gifts to Donor Advised Funds. Thank you for your shared commitment to cure pancreatic cancer!
Tour De Pier Rides for Love and Raises $1.5 Million
In its 12th year, Tour De Pier offers the ride of your life and a unique experience for participants. This year, we embraced our theme of “Ride for Love,” and together, we packed more love into the day than we ever thought possible. Thanks to everyone who participated the outdoor stationary cycling fundraiser, our community raised a remarkable $1.5 million and counting. TDP’s success and our ability to support research and patient services rely directly on supporters harnessing the power of their community. Together we ride for fun, ride for love, ride for hope, and ride to cure cancer. We can’t wait to see you on May 18, 2025 for year 13!
2024 Upcoming Events
Hirshberg Training Team 2025: October 5, 2024 – March 16, 2025
LA Cancer Challenge: Sunday, October 27, 2024
Pancreatic Cancer Awareness Month: November 2024
World Pancreatic Cancer Day: November 21, 2024
Giving Tuesday: December 3, 2024<
