Achievements

Dear Friends of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network,

February 8, 2009 is an exciting milestone in the history of the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network: our 10th anniversary!  As we acknowledge this landmark occasion, it is an appropriate time to reflect upon how far we have come in the past decade. 

Our accomplishments are multifaceted:

• By the end of our current fiscal year, June 30, 2009, nearly $5 million in research grants will have been awarded to 50 scientists around the country.  Our Career Development Awards have helped to build a team of scientists dedicated to pancreatic cancer research and our Pilot Grants are helping to develop new and innovative ideas in research.

• Through the years, our advocacy efforts have resulted in an increase of more than $70 million in federal research dollars for pancreatic cancer.  This funding is available to researchers around the country. In addition, these efforts have resulted in the first substantive piece of legislation introduced in Congress regarding pancreatic cancer research:  the Pancreatic Cancer Research & Education Act. This legislation could lead to a program dedicated to pancreatic cancer at the National Cancer Institute and increased federal research funding to fight the disease.

• More than 35,000 patients and their family members have received current and reliable information through our Patient & Liaison Services (PALS).  Our comprehensive clinical trials database ensures that patients have access to the latest treatment options and leading-edge research.  

• Hundreds of supporters who are a part of 75 volunteer affiliates across the nation now raise awareness and funding for pancreatic cancer through our Community Outreach Program. Our volunteer network, which began with just a few individuals, is instrumental in encouraging people to take action again pancreatic cancer.

 
Although much work remains, incredible strides have been made in laying the basic scientific foundation upon which significant progress can be built. Public relations efforts are also moving forward as national visibility of pancreatic cancer continues to increase. As this momentum builds, and new research developments emerge, those affected by pancreatic cancer have more reasons than ever before to feel optimistic.  

We wish to thank everyone who has made this extraordinary success possible. We are profoundly grateful for your dedication and commitment to this cause, and we look forward to working with you in this year and beyond.

To view a timeline of our achievements click here.

With warmest regards,  


Julie Fleshman, JD, MBA
President & CEO