The Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research is focused on finding a cure for pancreatic cancer and empowering the patients and families whose lives are touched by this disease. Founded in 1997, the Foundation funds groundbreaking scientific research, provides patient education and support, and sustains hope that this cancer will be eradicated once and for all.
Purpose Highlights
To find a cure in honor of Ron Hirshberg and the thousands diagnosed each year.
To create a premier pancreatic cancer center where all needs are met under one roof.
To serve as a trusted support resource for patients and families.
To fund programs that improve care, treatment, and survival rates.
To unite all generations through fitness, awareness, and fundraising events.
From left to right: Amy Reiss, Director of Patient Programs; Elissa Oblath, Director of Marketing & Technology; Agi Hirshberg, Founder; Lisa Manheim, Executive Director; and Sarah Banks, Director of Development.
2024 Highlights
Agi Hirshberg Center Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
The Foundation celebrated the opening of an expanded location for the Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases. Under Dr. Timothy Donahue’s leadership, this advanced facility offers patients coordinated, compassionate care in one location.
Pancreatic Cancer Progress Report
At the 18th Annual Symposium, Dr. Eileen O’Reilly highlighted recent progress in genetics, immunotherapy, and vaccine research. With newly FDA-approved therapies, she emphasized we are on the cusp of important breakthroughs.
Survival Rate Continues to Rise
The American Cancer Society's 2024 report shows the 5-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer has reached 13%, a number that has risen four years in a row since 2021. This progress reflects a global push for better outcomes and a strong community of survivors, families, and advocates driving change.
Casual Sunday: Survivors Gather and Inspire
At the Annual Casual Sunday Event, Agi Hirshberg welcomes survivors and their caregivers at her home for dinner and meaningful connections. The event promotes hope through shared stories and support, uplifting patients at the start of their journey and celebrating others' thriving years after diagnosis.
Seed Grant Program
Since 2005, the Hirshberg Foundation’s Seed Grant Program has awarded 131 grants to institutions across the country, fueling innovation and discovery in pancreatic cancer research. Designed to provide early-stage funding, these grants allow scientists to test bold ideas and generate preliminary data needed to secure major federal support from agencies like the NIH and NCI.
In 2024, ten $75,000 grants were awarded from a competitive pool of 87 applicants, supporting projects focused on early detection, targeted therapies, immunotherapy, and KRAS-driven
2024 Seed Grant Recipients
We are proud to support 10 outstanding researchers tackling cancer biology, prevention, immunotherapy, and early detection. Recipients hail from top institutions including UCLA, Mayo Clinic, MD Anderson, University of Miami, and
tumor development. This year’s recipients are exploring everything from genetic risk in diabetes patients to novel diagnostic platforms, with the potential to transform how pancreatic cancer is identified and treated. Many past awardees have gone on to receive multimilliondollar grants, underscoring the program’s impact. Thanks to community support and successful fundraising events, the Foundation is advancing more promising science than ever before. We look forward to celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Seed Grant Program in 2025, a milestone that reflects both sustained investment and transformative progress.
Katelyn T. Byrne, PhD
Oregon Health & Science University
Aim: Treatment / Therapy
Interrogating the role of the PSGL1/VISTA axis in the pancreatic tumor-immune microenvironment
Alicia K. Fleming Martinez, PhD
Mayo Clinic
Aim: Early Diagnosis & Detection
Leveraging Metabolic Changes in PanIN Lesions for Early Detection of Pancreatic Cancer
UT Southwestern. Projects focus on identifying biomarkers, improving therapy response, and preventing cancer development by targeting genetic mutations.
Julienne L. Carstens, PhD
The University of Alabama at Birmingham
Aim: Cancer Biology
Defining the cancer cell regulators of immunity enabling pancreatic cancer liver metastasis
Mark Girgis, MD
University of California, Los Angeles
Aim: Early Diagnosis / Detection
Molecular Testing of Pancreatic Cystic Neoplasms: Enhancing the Malignant Yield of Pancreatectomy
2024 Seed Grant Recipients
Conan Kinsey, MD, PhD
Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah
Aim: Prevention / Metabolism
Preventing Pancreatic Cancer Through RAS
Inhibition
Jimin Min, PhD
UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Aim: Cancer Biology
Spatial omics profiling to assess the impact of aging on the normal and neoplastic pancreas
Jacques Lux, PhD
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Aim: Treatment / Therapy
Ultrasound-guided STING activation with Spatial and Temporal Precision to Improve Pancreatic Cancer Response to Immunotherapy
Somnath Pandey, PhD
University of Miami
Aim: Treatment / Therapy
Genetic deletion of MALL reprograms tumor microenvironment and improves survival response to anti-PD1 in pancreatic-ductal adenocarcinoma
Fredrik Ivar Thege, PhD
UT MD Anderson Cancer Center
Aim: Treatment / Therapy
Identifying synergistic combinations to improve KRAS-targeted therapy response in PDAC
Liying Zhang, MD, PhD
University of California, Los Angeles
Aim: Treatment / Therapy
Identifying circulating biomarkers for predicting response to neoadjuvant immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer
Hirshberg Symposium at the APA
The 2024 American Pancreatic Association meeting welcomed over 1,000 attendees from 23 countries. At this global gathering, the Hirshberg Foundation hosted a symposium on KRAS, a key driver in pancreatic cancer, featuring the latest science and therapeutic strategies. Dr. O. Joe Hines received APA’s highest honor, the Vay Liang & Frisca Go Award for Lifetime Achievement, for his outstanding contributions to pancreatic disease research and care.
Project Advancement: Advancing Immunotherapy
We are proud to share that our collaborative efforts with the UCLA Health Jonsson Comprehensive Cancer Center have led to a transformative $4 million grant from the National Cancer Institute (NCI). This grant aims to advance immune-based therapies for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) to improve treatment and patient outcomes. Immunotherapy uses drugs to boost the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancer cells. Led by Dr. Timothy Donahue, Director of the Agi Hirshberg Center, along with Dr. Zev Wainberg, Co-Director of the UCLA Health GI Oncology Program, and Dr. Caius Radu, Professor of Molecular and Medical Pharmacology, a multidisciplinary team is exploring this topic further. The grant will also support a follow-up clinical trial testing a small molecule inhibitor combined with the current regimen of PD-1, an immunotherapy drug, and chemotherapy before surgery.
I know right now there’s been a lot of reassessments of NIH funding and reconsideration of how they’re going to distribute funding, but there is no disease more deserving than pancreatic cancer where we need so many more developments, advancements, and research.
Dr. Timothy Donahue Director of the UCLA Agi Hirshberg Center for Pancreatic Diseases, UCLA
From left to right: Drs. Timothy Donahue, Caius Radu, and Zev Wainberg
Hirshberg Laboratories
Three UCLA-based labs form the Foundation's research core. These labs collaborate to advance our understanding of pancreatic cancer biology and drive innovation towards a cure.
Miklos Sahin-Toth Research Lab
Dr. Miklos Sahin-Toth, a leader in pancreatitis research, published two major studies in 2024 on the SPINK1 gene and its role in triggering pancreatic inflammation. His findings could inform gene therapies to prevent or treat pancreatitis, a known risk factor for pancreatic cancer. This work was supported by the Hirshberg Foundation and highlights the importance of investing in fundamental research. Early-stage discoveries like these pave the way for new treatments.
Ronald S. Hirshberg Translational Research Lab
Led by Dr. Guido Eibl, in 2024, the lab explored how factors like obesity and social isolation can accelerate pancreatic cancer development. A recent study published in Molecular Cancer Research revealed that stress and diet together may trigger early tumor growth. The team is also examining how high-fat diets impact cancer progression. This work strengthens the connection between lifestyle, stress, and cancer risk, areas where prevention strategies can make a difference.
Ronald S. Hirshberg Chair in Translational Research
Dr. Enrique Rozengurt, holder of the Ronald S. Hirshberg Chair, continued studying how common medications like metformin and statins may help prevent or slow pancreatic cancer. In 2024, his lab has uncovered promising pathways that could lead to safer, more accessible treatment options. Recent research has also examined the role of stress and obesity in cancer development. With over 41,000 citations, Dr. Rozengurt’s work continues to attract competitive NIH funding and global recognition.
Our UCLA Programs
UCLA Pancreas Tissue Bank
Directed by Dr. David Dawson, the UCLA Pancreas Tissue Bank provides researchers with high-quality tumor samples and advanced tools for studying pancreatic cancer. With Hirshberg Foundation support, it offers free access to scientists pursuing novel discoveries. The bank supports projects at UCLA and institutions worldwide, helping drive progress in diagnosis, treatment, and precision medicine. It is a critical resource for accelerating translational research.
PRECEDE Consortium at UCLA
The center is leading or participating in 73 pancreatic cancer clinical trials, offering patients access to groundbreaking therapies. A $4 million NIH grant is funding research into adenosine, a molecule that weakens the immune system’s ability to fight pancreatic cancer, with the goal of enhancing immunotherapy. Through the international PRECEDE Consortium, UCLA is collecting genetic and clinical data from more than 6,500 participants to improve early detection and raise survival rates. Hirshberg seed grant recipient Dr. Evan Abt continues to explore how immune function and metabolism intersect, pointing to new treatment possibilities.
Nutrition for Safer Surgeries
Led by Dr. Shelby Yaceczko, this program personalizes nutrition plans for patients before and after surgery to improve recovery and outcomes. Virtual group classes and expanded screening tools help address malnutrition and digestive complications like exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI). Dr. Yaceczko is also developing protocols and educational resources through the Canopy Cancer Collective. These efforts ensure patients are physically prepared for treatment and supported throughout their care.
18th Annual Pancreatic Cancer Symposium
The 2024 Symposium united patients, caregivers, researchers, and medical professionals for an inspiring day of education, connection, and community. Hosted by the Hirshberg Foundation, this free annual event featured expert-led sessions on: groundbreaking treatments, genetic testing, pancreatic enzyme education, and updates from initiatives like PRECEDE and the Canopy Cancer Collective. Sessions included: Dr. Eileen O’Reilly presented a 2024 Pancreatic Cancer Progress Report; Diane M. Simeone, MD, discussed the significance and importance of the Pancreatic Cancer Early Detection Consortium: PRECEDE; Mariana S. Niell-Swiller, MS introduced the topic of genetic testing for pancreatic cancer, explaining what it is and why it matters; and Joseph Herman, MD discussed Improving Pancreatic Cancer Patient Care: Canopy Cancer Collective.
A standout moment of the day was the Survivor and Caregiver Panel, which offered inspiring stories of resilience. Designed to empower and inform, the Symposium serves as a vital resource for those navigating pancreatic cancer. With each session, attendees gain practical knowledge, emotional support, and a renewed sense of hope. This event continues to be one of the Foundation’s most impactful educational programs, strengthening our commitment to patientcentered care and scientific advancement.
Patient & Caregiver New Resources
Patient Navigator Program
Spanish-Language Resources
In 2024, the Hirshberg Foundation funded the Center’s first-ever patient navigator to help guide patients and families through diagnosis, treatment, and recovery. This role provides personalized support and ensures patients receive timely information, resources, and referrals. The addition of a navigator reduces confusion and stress, improving the overall care experience. It’s an essential step toward making the patient and family experience more supportive and compassionate.
The Patient & Caregivers section of our website was redesigned in 2024 to include more resources than ever. From our 'Where to Begin' guide to expanded information for families, our website thoughtfully guides patients and caregivers through the pancreatic cancer diagnosis process. Additionally, we’ve translated crucial information into Spanish to help increase awareness in more communities. We’re here to support anyone facing pancreatic cancer, and our Patient Services are always provided at no charge.
Treatment Decisions: Questions to Ask Your Doctor
In 2024, the Foundation introduced a new online resource to help patients during doctor visits. The process begins with open, honest conversations with your healthcare team and being ready with a list of questions. This preparation is key because remembering which questions to ask during appointments can be hard without a prepared list.
Spotlight Feature: Our Lady of Hope
In July 2024, Pancreas, a leading journal of pancreatic disease, published a moving tribute to Hirshberg Foundation founder Agi Hirshberg, honoring her life, mission, and legacy. Titled Our Lady of Hope, the article by Shweta Lavania captures Agi’s strength and compassion in the wake of losing her husband Ron to pancreatic cancer. Six weeks after his passing, Agi founded the Hirshberg Foundation and began a decades-long mission to ensure that no patient faces this disease alone. The
article celebrates Agi’s unwavering advocacy and her ability to transform grief into a force for healing, research, and progress. As a pioneering woman in cancer philanthropy, her story resonates with families worldwide, uniting them in hope and determination. Pancreas selected Agi for its inaugural “Spotlight Series,” emphasizing the Foundation’s global influence and her role in shaping a compassionate movement to conquer pancreatic cancer.
While losing one’s beloved husband in the prime of his life might have broken the spirits of a lesser mortal. Agi Hirshberg found new strength and a clarity of purpose that led to the establishment of the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research a mere 6 weeks after Ronald’s death.
Shweta Lavania, PANCREAS Magazine
Signature Events
On October 26, 2024, the 27th Annual L.A. Cancer Challenge brought together thousands of participants in a powerful show of community, compassion, and commitment to curing pancreatic cancer. This year’s event raised over $680,000, one of the most successful fundraising years to date, and pushed the event’s lifetime total to more than $13 million in support of research and patient care. Honorary Medical Chairs Drs. Timothy Donahue, Zev Wainberg, and Caius Radu were recognized for their groundbreaking immunotherapy research, including a $4 million NIH-funded study aimed at improving treatment outcomes. The event was also marked by the inspiring presence of 9-year pancreatic cancer survivor Tom Arai, who served as Honorary Starter and reminded all in attendance:
“Statistics do not define us, do not predict our outcome, and do not accurately reflect the current strides being made to conquer this disease.”
The LACC remains a cornerstone of the Hirshberg Foundation’s mission. Each year, it mobilizes families, researchers, survivors, and supporters to raise awareness and accelerate progress toward a cure.
Tour de Pier celebrated its 12th anniversary of the award-winning outdoor cycling fundraiser with the theme “Ride for Love,” bringing the community together for a heartfelt and highenergy cycling event. Participants raised $1.5 million for three cancer beneficiaries, contributing to a cumulative total of $13.3 million. Riders enjoyed views of the Pacific Ocean while listening to energizing music and watching live entertainment. Each year, the Tour De Pier mobilizes families, researchers, survivors, and supporters to raise awareness and accelerate progress toward a cure.
