I'm beyond grateful to be here today, a stomach cancer survivor, ready to embark on a monumental journey towards making a difference in the lives of those affected by stomach cancer. With your support, we can truly bring about a positive change.
Did you know that stomach cancer receives only a fraction of funding? In fact, according to the National Cancer Institute's 2018 budget, stomach cancer ranked 18th out of 19 categories, with a mere 0.23% dedicated to its research. This staggering statistic propelled me to take action and initiate a campaign that aims to transform the landscape of stomach cancer research forever.
My goal is ambitious but undeniably worthwhile: to raise $10,000 for important stomach cancer research and to help establish an endowment of $1.5 million. This endowment will enable The Centre for Translational Cancer Research to conduct long-term investigations into Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer (HDGC), offering hope and options to patients seeking to live their lives without the grip of stomach cancer.
To help launch this campaign and create much-needed awareness, I have committed myself to an incredible feat—the IRONMAN triathlon. But there's an extraordinary twist: I'll be racing without a stomach, as I underwent a total gastrectomy due to stomach cancer in 2018. An IRONMAN is a grueling endeavor, one that no one, to my knowledge, has successfully accomplished without a stomach. Yet, the significance of this challenge pales in comparison to the struggles faced by those battling stomach cancer every single day.
I cannot stress enough how vital your support is. Your contributions, both financial and in spreading the word, will propel us closer to our goal. Together, we can make a tangible impact in the field of stomach cancer research, ensuring that dedicated researchers have the resources they need to uncover breakthroughs and provide much-needed hope to patients and their families.
I humbly ask for your support, whether it's through a donation, sharing this campaign with your networks, or simply lending an ear to listen. Every action, big or small, matters. Your belief in this cause fuels my determination, and I promise to put my heart and soul into this endeavor, pushing my limits to raise awareness and funding.
I am filled with profound gratitude for your support and the opportunity to champion this cause alongside each and every one of you. Let's rally together, united by the common goal of eradicating stomach cancer and providing a future where patients can thrive without the fear of this relentless disease.
Thank you, from the depths of my heart, for being a part of this journey. Together, we will create a lasting impact that will resonate for generations to come.
With gratitude,
Dylan
More information about No Stomach For Cancer: Our mission is to support research and unite the caring power of people affected by stomach cancer worldwide.
We advance awareness and education about stomach cancer, including Hereditary Diffuse Gastric Cancer (HDGC/CDH1/CTNNA1), provide a support network for affected families, and support research efforts for screening, early detection, treatment, and prevention of stomach cancer.
More information on the Endowment Campaign: https://saveourstomachs.org/
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