HIRSHBERG FOUNDATION FOR PANCREATIC CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER 2010
As I am writing this opening letter to you, we have just
completed the 6th Annual Agi Hirshberg Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer, which for the first time was coordinated within UCLA’s Integrative Medicine Week. Once again, we separated our Symposium into two groups - the Scientific Program and the Patient and Family Session. A packed audience filled each room and challenging debates allowed for creative thinking and collaboration. Each group was able to speak, learn and ask questions in a comfortable setting. The following pages of this newsletter will highlight an extraordinary year of our research - our progress, our approach, and vibrant research data base.
For me, learning about East- West Integrative Medicine at the Symposium provided a wealth of information to pass along to patients. While our traditional Western Medicine concentrates on treating diseased body parts, Eastern Medicine’s emphasis is on wellness, individuality, self healing, mind and body interaction, as well as patient empowerment. It is the integrative approach that best serves cancer patients today, and reaffirms the need for all of us to make healthy choices in our daily practices of nutrition, stress management and exercise.
Feedback after our recent UCLA symposium made me realize just how much we have achieved in a short twelve years, with the
dedicated financial support of our donors and the commitment of our distinguished Scientific Advisory Board. I want to share some of the comments expressed by others, which together seem to define the work of the Foundation perfectly. From a scientist: “I have been doing pancreatic cancer research since 1984, so I know this is a huge challenge that will not be easy to overcome. In my presentations I am trying to stimulate people to think outside the box, to look at the incredible amount of information generated (thanks to research funded by NIH grants) and to apply this knowledge in a bold way that has not been tried before. I think we are very close to a major breakthrough and it is people like you (contined on next page)
Intro, Con’t
DIRECTORS & TRUSTEES Agi Hirshberg, President & Founder
who have raised funds and awareness, and who have created advocacy for the cause, that is making a difference, and that will bring us to a meaningful ten year survivals and beyond. I am convinced of it!” From a family member of a patient: “My family and I benefited tremendously from the Symposium. While drowning in feelings of fear and powerlessness, it has been both comforting and empowering to receive concrete information and actionable advice from informed professionals. Your hard work makes a big difference in our lives.” From a physician: “I was really touched by the gentleman who had a neuroendocrine tumor, who said that before this day, he’d never met another person with pancreatic cancer. The power of that isolation being broken could be felt throughout the room.” These are the messages that reduce me to tears and give me the strength and confidence needed to complete our mission- to find the cure! In addition to the Symposium recaps, within these pages are some highlights of our work from this past year. At the Foundation, we meet many wonderful families touched by pancreatic cancer. Life threw all of us together for a reason. While many of us met under tragic circumstances, together we have the power to change the outcome of a future diagnosis. Pancreatic cancer is relentless, fortunately so are we!
Lisa Manheim, Director Jon Hirshberg, Trustee Lisa Fletcher, Communications Director Michael Berliner, Trustee Stephen C. Prince, CPA Michael Scott, LLP
SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY BOARD Vay Liang W. Go, MD, Chair Laszlo G. Boros, MD Murray Korc, MD Laurence J. Miller, MD Stephen J. Pandol, MD Howard A. Reber, MD Lee S. Rosen, MD Diane M. Simeone, MD
FOUNDATION MISSION STATEMENT
Agi Hirshberg Founder & CEO
Agi Hirshberg (third from left) poses with Foundation staff, from left to right, Allison Miller, Lisa Manheim and Lisa Fletcher.
To find a cure for pancreatic cancer in honor of Ron Hirshberg and the thousands of people who are diagnosed with this disease each year. To create a premier Pancreatic Cancer Center where all needs of pancreatic cancer patients can be met in one location with the most advanced treatment options. To be recognized as a patient support reference source for pancreatic cancer patients and their families. To fund new projects and programs designed to improve patient care, treatment and, ultimately, pancreatic cancer survival rates. To integrate and unite generations, young and old, through physical fitness participation, while creating public awareness and raising money to find a cure for pancreatic cancer.
Introduction Vay Liang W. Go, MD UCLA Department of Medicine Our Sixth Annual Agi Hirshberg Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer was held at the UCLA Faculty Center on February 2, 2010. This year’s symposium was part of the Integrative Medicine Week program organized by the UCLA Collaborative Centers for Integrative Medicine. Our Patient and Family Session focused on family history, quality of life, nutrition and support resources. Our Scientific Session discussed new strategies in targeted therapy for pancreatic cancer. Invitees included former and current Seed Grant Awardees, members of the Scientific Advisory Board, and visiting faculties from abroad and other universities. Both programs were well attended and were partially supported by Genentech and OSI Oncology. This year’s symposium was enriched by the 25 research poster presentations of ongoing research projects by investigators from UCLA Center for Excellence in Pancreatic Diseases, Southern California Research Center for Alcohol Liver and Pancreatic Diseases, VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System, Hirshberg Laboratories for Pancreatic Cancer Research, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, and Cedar-Sinai Medical Center. The Hirshberg Foundation newsletter is supported by an unrestricted educational grant from:
Agi Hirshberg opened the meeting and specifically thanked all of the participants and then introduced Dr. Gerald S. Levey, UCLA’s Dean emeritus. Dr. Levey gave a historical perspective of his relationship with Agi and recognized her philanthropic efforts and dedication. He also acknowledged the accomplishments of the Foundation, not only within UCLA, but within the national and international landscape. There were many scientific highlights in this years meeting from targeting pancreatic cancer stem cells, to understanding the critical micro-environment, to the potential use of antidiabetic therapy on prevention, to the application of herbal therapies on pancreatic cancer. The multimodal multi-targeted pathway therapy was recommended by Dr. Murray Korc as the key concepts for the current approaches in the management of pancreatic cancer. All the key presentations are highlighted in this issue of the Hirshberg Foundation newsletter.
TO VIEW THE COMPLETE SYMPOSIUM VIDEO AND P O W E R P O I N T P R E S E N TAT I O N S , V I S I T O U R W E B S I T E .
Sixth Annual Agi Hirshberg Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer
Current States in Pancreatic Cancer Therapy Timothy Donahue, MD
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA
Symposium Recaps Pancreatic cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths within the United States with an overall five-year survival of less than five percent. The main causes for the poor prognosis include late presentation of disease, aggressive tumor biology, and a poor response to available therapies. Surgical resection is the only treatment associated with cure; however, over 80
Pylorus Preserving Whipple percent of patients present with locally advanced or metastatic disease and are not candidates for surgery. There have been modest improvements in survival for patients with resectable disease primarily due to regionalization of care. Furthermore, about 20 percent of patients with locally advanced or borderline resectable disease can be down-staged with neoadjuvant treatment and subsequently resected. These patients have a median five-year survival of 25 to 35 percent
that approaches the group of patients who were resectable at first presentation. However, large meta-analyses show that current cytoxic chemotherapy regimens do increase quality of life but can only increase survival by a median of five weeks for patients with locally advanced or unresectable disease. Molecularly targeted agents have been proposed as a novel strategy to improve treatment efficacy. Agents that target the EGFR, KRAS, and VEGF pathways have been studied in Phase III randomized clinical trials. Unfortunately, the results have been disappointing and may be due to poor patient selection. The 2009 NCI consensus report on pancreas cancer treatment recommended that future clinical trials using molecular agents focus on tailored therapy. Patients should be administered specific molecular agents based on the genetic and molecular changes present within their individual tumor. Pancreatic cancer research needs to continue to focus on the molecular heterogeneity of the primary tumor with the discovery of novel biomarkers and targeted agents, cancer stem cell signaling, the role of the large stromal component, and the development of metastases.
Tissue Microarrays in Pancreatic Cancer Research David W. Dawson, MD, PhD
UCLA Department of Pathology & Laboratory Medicine
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Inhibition of molecular chaperones as a potential therapy for pancreatic cancer Gabriela Chiosis, PhD
UCLA Pancreatic Adenocarcinoma TMA
Recent high-throughput genomic and proteomic approaches to the study of pancreatic cancer and other malignancies have provided large numbers of candidate genes and proteins with potential relevance as clinical biomarkers and therapeutic targets, but that require further validation in human clinical samples. Historically, the validation of these candidates has been hampered by limited availability of clinical specimens, as well as the expense associated with analyzing large numbers of patient samples to support statistically sound conclusions. These problems can be circumvented in large part by using tissue microarrays (TMAs). TMAs involve the multiplexing of representative biopsy cores taken from archival paraffin tissue blocks of a large number of patient samples, in essence creating a miniaturized archival tissue bank. By analyzing hundreds of patient samples on a single histologic section taken from a TMA block, one is able to preserve precious tissue and spare enormous expense while generating statistically robust data. Additional advantages include assay uniformity across patient samples and the ability to correlate multiple markers simultaneously in serial sections.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
several TMAs that provide an invaluable research tool for biomarker discovery and validation. TMAs include a pancreatic adenocarcinoma TMA of over 150 patients with patient-matched normal pancreas. Pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) and lymph node metastasis TMAs have also been created that can allow candidates to be validated in relation to pre-malignant dysplastic progression or metastatic spread, respectively. Finally, a pancreatic endocrine neoplasm TMA of over 120 patients has also been created. The value of these TMAs has been increased by linking them with well annotated clinicopathologic information, including disease-free and overall survival data. These TMAs have already been successfully utilized by UCLA researchers as translational tools to strengthen links between basic science discoveries and their clinical relevance to pancreatic cancer.
Using archival pancreas tissues available to us at UCLA, we have created
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Despite significant advances in the treatment of many other human tumors, the five-year survival rate for persons diagnosed with pancreatic cancer has not changed in decades and remains at about five percent. The major reasons for failure of targeted therapy in this disease have been attributed to the complex molecular pathogenesis of pancreatic cancer, associated with the aberrant activation on multiple pathways and defined mutations. Faced with such intricate mechanisms of activating oncogenic pathways that regulate cellular proliferation, survival
and metastasis, therapies that target a single activating molecule have a low chance in overpowering the multitude of aberrant cellular processes. Indeed, all targeted therapeutic approaches applied to date to the treatment of pancreatic cancer have failed to confer significant improvement in clinical outcomes. To tolerate the complex load of aberrant pathways and molecules, pancreatic cancers become dependent for survival on molecular chaperones. The major chaperones, heat shock protein 90 and 70 (Hsp90 and Hsp70), assist and abet onco-proteins driving malignant processes in pancreatic cancers, such as proliferation, survival and metastasis, and allow for the development of a cancer phenotype. In addition, they help cancer cells build resistance to other therapies by increasing the apoptotic threshold. My presentation outlined the role for anti-Hsp90 and Hsp70-targeted therapeutics in pancreatic cancer.
Pancreatic Cancer MicroenvironmentCritical Player for Therapeutic Developments
Tumor angiogenesis and pericytes
species and lactic acid due to unique characteristics of cancer metabolism. The mechanisms of participation of this complex of matrix and chemistry in carcinogenesis are only starting to be appreciated.
Stephen Pandol, MD
UCLA Department of Medicine
VA Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the most common form of pancreatic cancer and is characterized by remarkable desmoplasia. The desmoplasia is composed of extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins, myofibroblastic pancreatic stellate cells, and immune cells associated with a multitude of cytokines, growth factors, and ECM metabolizing enzymes. In addition, the environment of the cancer has a low pH and O2; and is rich in reactive oxygen
including reactive oxygen species that act to make the cancer cells resistant to dying. Finally, studies in humans show that the desmoplasia has deleterious effects on immune surveillance as well as penetration of therapeutic agents. These findings suggest that the desmoplasia of PDAC is a key factor in regulating carcinogenesis of PDAC as well as responses to therapies. A better understanding of the biology of desmoplasia in the mechanism of PDAC will provide significant opportunities for better treatments for this devastating cancer.
Recent studies show key roles for stellate cells in the production of ECM proteins as well as cytokines and growth factors that promote the growth of the cancer cells all present in the desmoplastic parts of PDAC. In addition, interactions of ECM proteins and desmoplastic secreted growth factors with the cancer cells of PDAC activate intracellular signals
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Elimination of cancer stem cells in pancreatic cancer cell lines by combinatorial therapy Carmen Visus, PhD
Hillman Cancer Center
University of Pittsburgh
Cancer Stem Cells (CSC) are tumor initiating cells that are frequently resistant to chemo and radio therapies. ALDH bright cells have been shown to be a marker of Cancer Stem Cells in different tumors including pancreatic adenocarcinoma. Hedgehog (Hg) signaling pathway plays a critical role in invasion and metastasis in pancreatic cancer. Recent evidence suggests that Hg may be specifically overexpressed in ALDH bright cells. In the past, we have been able to generate ALDH1A188-96 specific T cells. Now we are able to target pancreatic cancer stem cells with ALDH1A188-96 peptide-specific T cells in combination with cyclopamine, an inhibitor of Hg signaling pathway.
cells were highly tumorigenic in NOD/SCID mice. The reactivity of the ALDH1A188-96 peptide-specific T cells was tested “in vitro� in flow-based cytotoxicity assays. ALDH bright cells were targeted in vitro for Immunotherapy with ALDH1A188-96 peptide-specific T cells and cyclopamine. We are able to target ALDH bright cells for immunotherapy utilizing ALDH1A1 specific T cells in combination with the Hg inhibitor cyclopamine and this may result in control of tumor growth and metastasis in pancreatic tumors.
Personalized Medicine for Pancreatic Cancer Murray Korc, MD
Department of Medicine
Dartmouth Medical School
We have used FACS analysis to identify and sort ALDHbright cells in different pancreatic cell lines. We characterized stem/progenitor cells in pancreatic cell lines. We found that ALDHbright
Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer related mortality in the United States. The prognosis of patients with PDAC is extremely poor, with an overall 5-year survival rate that is less than 5%. The diagnosis of PDAC is often established at an advanced stage, precluding patients from undergoing tumor resection. There is an urgent need for an improved understanding of the mechanisms that contribute to pancreatic tumor growth and metastasis, and for the design of more effective therapies for this disorder. We already know that PDAC is associated with mutations in the K-ras oncogene (approximately 90%), the p53 (approximately 85%) and Smad4 (approximately 50%) tumor suppressor genes, and the p16 (85% mutated and approximately 15% silenced epigenetically) cell cycle inhibitory gene. In addition, there are less frequent mutations in a dozen other important genes, occurring in conjunction with an overexpression of multiple tyrosine kinase receptors and their ligands, and excessive activation of downstream signaling pathways such as the src, NFkB, and Stat3 pathways. Empirically-based clinical trials in PDAC are no longer acceptable. Instead, molecular profiling of the tumor should be carried out to decide which combination
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pancreatic cancer. Integration of GEM-based chemotherapy combined with external irradiation and QYHJ-based traditional Chinese Herbs together may benefit patients with advanced pancreatic cancer, offering longer overall survival than other treatment. Ski acts as a therapeutic target of QYHJ formula in the treatment of pancreatic cancer cells. Different expression status of Ski mediated different response of SW1990 tumors to the QYHJ treatment.
Antidiabetic Therapeutic Agent on Pancreatic Cancer Enrique Rozengurt, PhD
Division of Digestive Diseases David Geffen School of Medi-
of drugs should be used in a given patient, based on the concept of Multi-modal and Multi-targeted Pathway Therapy (MMPT). This rational, targeted approach that is based on the specific molecular profile of each patient’s cancer will take into account the gene mutations and potential cross-talk pathways that are active in each tumor, as well as consider their microRNA profile and immune status. This work was supported by U.S. Public Health Service Grants CA-R37-75059 from the National Cancer Institute.
Herbal Therapy in Pancreatic Cancer Luming Liu, MD, PhD Fudan University Shanghai, China
BACKGROUND: Pancreatic adenocarcinoma is the 4th leading cause of cancer-related mortality in the U.S.A. The incidence of pancreatic cancer increased 72.2% in males and 56.2% in females in China from 1972-1999. Herbal therapy is applied widely in treating this malignancy in Shanghai, China.
cine at UCLA
Recently we identified a rapid crosstalk between insulin and G-proteincoupled receptor (GPCR) signaling pathways in human pancreatic cancer (PaCa) cells. Using real-time imaging of single cells to assess changes in Ca2+ signaling, we found that insulin (10 ng/ml) enhanced the proportion of PANC-1 cells that responded to low (0.05-0.1 nM) concentrations of neurotensin (NT) with intracellular Ca2+.oscillations. The enhancing effect of insulin was mediated through the rapamycin-sensitive mTORC1dependent pathway. Metformin, the most widely used drug in the treatment of type-2 diabetes, activates AMP kinase (AMPK), which negatively regulates mTORC1. PaCa cells treatment with metformin, like rapamycin, abrogated insulin-induced potentiation of NT-induced Ca2+ signaling. Importantly, insulin also markedly enhanced GPCR agonist-induced pancreatic
METHODS: A review of this clinical and experimental study was introduced at the Fudan University Cancer Hospital in Shanghai, China. This was an 8 year study based on medical evidence from 2002 to 2009. RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS: Clinical & experimental study showed that Qingyihuaji Formula is effective treatment for
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The pancreatic cancer stem cell is responsible for the resistance to chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) induced the differentiation of pancreatic ductal carcinoma cells and stem cells. Thus, we hypothesize that GLP-1 may have the therapeutic potential in pancreatic cancer treatment. This study was aimed to assess the effect of GLP-1 on the proliferation and tumorigenicity of pancreatic cancer stem cell in vitro.
cancer cell growth, as measured by DNA synthesis, and numbers of cells cultured in adherent or non-adherent conditions. Metformin blocked stimulation of DNA synthesis, anchorage-dependent and independent growth induced by insulin and NT in pancreatic cancer cells, including PANC-1, MIAPaca-2 but not in the LKB1-negative Aspc-1. Treatment with metformin induced AMPK activation, as shown by phosphorylation of its substrate ACC. Next, we examined whether metformin could inhibit pancreatic cancer growth using PANC1 and MIAPaCa-2 tumor xenografts in nude mice. We found that administration of metformin strikingly decreased the rate of growth of either PANC-1 or MIAPaCa-2 cells xenografted in nude mice. The volume of the tumors of PANC-1 xenografts at the end of the experiment (day 41) were 286.11 ± 50.95 mm3 in the control and 98.47 ± 29.20 mm3 in the metformin treated group (p=0.0057). The volume of the tumors of MIAPaCa-2 xenografts at the end of the experiment (Day 25) were 228.35 ± 40.99 mm3 in the control and 92.67 ± 20.10 mm3 in the metformin treated group (p=0.0072). These results demonstrate that metformin inhibits the growth of
human pancreatic cancer cells xenografted into nude mice. Taken together with recent epidemiological studies, our results raise the possibility that metformin (a well tolerated and inexpensive agent) could be a candidate in novel treatment strategies for human pancreatic cancer.
Inhibitory Effects of Glp-1 on Proliferation of Pancreatic Cancer Stem Cells In Vitro Hongxiang Hui , MD, PhD
David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA Veterans Affairs Greater Los Angeles Healthcare System
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Pancreatic cancer stem cells (PCSC, CD44+CD24+ESA+), sorted from Gemcitabine-treated Panc-1 by FACS, were treated with GLP-1 (10 nm). MTT assay revealed a cell proliferation inhibition of 21.73% at 48 hours, 33.61% at 72 hours (N=4, p<0.05), the reduction of S phase was 26.59% at 48 h and 38.93% at 72 h (N=3, P< 0·001 and P< 0·01), and the DNA synthesis was inhibited 54.25% (N=2, P<0.001) at 72 hours. Exendin 4 showed a similar effect, while Exendin 9 abolished the inhibitory effect. In addition, 96 hours GLP-1 treatment resulted in 3 time increased sensitivity of PCSC cells to Gemcitabine (200-400ug) (N=3, P<0.001). Our results suggest that GLP-1 inhibits proliferation and tumorigenicity of pancreatic cancer stem cells in vitro.
Symposium Recaps: Patient and Family Sessions
Agi Hirshberg (second from left) poses with panelists, from left to right, Randall Brand, Mary Hardy and Barbara Clerkin.
Importance of a Family History of Pancreatic Cancer Randall E. Brand, MD University of Pittsburgh
My presentation at the recent symposium focused on the identification and potential reduction of pancreatic cancer risk factors. Smoking and family history (hereditary factors) are the most commonly recognized risk factors. In fact, the greatest risk factor for the development of pancreatic cancer is genetic predisposition. Other risk factors such as obesity and high fat diet are more modest in effect. In most instances, the elevated risk for developing pancreatic cancer likely results from a combination of environmental and inherited factors.
Preventive strategies are mostly focused on risk reduction. Smoking cessation/ avoidance is critical and could lead to a reduction in up to one-third of pancreatic cancer cases. Other reasonable but unproven strategies include eating a healthy diet in fruits and vegetables, regular exercise and if obese, losing weight. Higher intake of Vitamin D has been associated with a decrease risk for pancreatic cancer development and to date remains the best choice for a chemopreventive agent. Due to the low incidence of pancreatic cancer in the general population, screening for pancreatic cancer should be reserved to those populations at a higher risk for pancreatic cancer development. These screening candidates should be encouraged to be seen by centers experienced in caring for patients at high risk for pancreatic cancer development.
Hereditary factors may CANDIDATES FOR PANCREATIC play a significant role CANCER SURVEILLANCE in the development Three or more first, second, or third-degree relatives of pancreatic adenowith PC in the same lineage carcinoma in up to Known mutation carrier for BRCA1 or BRCA2 or p16 10% of cases. Familial with at least one first or second-degree relative pancreatic cancer is with pancreatic cancer a term that has been A member, ideally a verified germlinecarrier, applied to families of a Peutz-Jegherskindred with two or more Two relatives in the same lineage (directly connected) first-degree relatives affected with pancreatic cancer, at least one a first-degree relative of the candidate who have pancreatic cancer not associated An affected individual with hereditary pancreatitis with a known cancer syndrome. For the majority of these pancreatic cancer-prone families, the responsible genetic mutation has not been identified. However, in a minority of families, pancreatic cancer can occur in known cancer syndromes, including familial atypical multiple mole melanoma (FAMMM), Peutz-Jeghers Mary L Hardy, MD Simms/Mann-UCLA Center for syndrome, and hereditary breast-ovarian Integrative Oncology cancer. It is strongly suggested that individuals who have familial pancreatic Cancer patients are very interested in cancer undergo genetic counseling and complementary and alternative medipossibly genetic testing, depending on cine (CAM) use throughout the spectrum their family’s cancer history. of cancer care- from prevention to use
Nutritional Strategies & Dietary Supplement Choices in Pancreatic Cancer
during active treatment. In some cases use may exceed 90%. When considering any new treatment, patients should always weigh the risk and benefit of treatment and consider the cost as well. For CAM therapies these choices can be very difficult. There may not be enough good quality information to assess therapies fully and the variety of choices available can be overwhelming. It is important to have appropriate goals in mind when choosing CAM and/or nutritional therapies. CAM/Nutritional therapies improve quality of life of pancreatic cancer patients either by reducing the side effects of conventional treatment, improving mood, decreasing stress, boosting the immune systems, maintaining weight and muscle mass- in short maintaining wellness. Patients in the midst of difficult, complex medical treatment often feel a loss of control over their life. Optimizing your well-being can help you and can make your treatment more effective. Not all practitioners are ethical and have your best interests at heart. When you see the RED FLAGS for CAM therapies or therapists (see list below), you should proceed with caution.
RED FLAGS FOR CAM THERAPIES • Treatments that are too good to be true & over promise results • Secret formulas or ingredients • Excessively expensive formulas • Unwillingness on part of CAM provider to talk to medical team • CAM providers very dismissive or negative about medical team • Cite evidence that turns out to be only anecdotal stories During active treatment, eat adequate calories to maintain weight, focus on getting high amounts of protein to protect lean body mass. Use supplemental protein powder if needed. Many dietary supplements can be helpful to decrease the toxicity of chemotherapy and improve general functioning. I have discussed some of the choices in the video. All choices should be discussed with your medical team and be sure to buy high quality products.
Pancreatic Cancer: Patient Resources and Support Systems Barbara Clerkin, RN, MPH
UCLA Center for Pancreatic Diseases
It is not every day that a person is acutely faced with their mortality. Those who are given the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer find themselves in this situation. It is not uncommon to have the necessary tools in one’s toolbox for the journey with pancreatic cancer. The statistics for five year survival are daunting. At the UCLA Center for Pancreatic Disease, even with our five year survival rate of 34% for those patients that have a pancreatic resection and adjuvant chemotherapy, the survival statistic is concerning. There are some tools, strategies and supports that when employed can and will help the patient, family and significant others on this journey with pancreatic cancer. Many patients feel as if they have been “punched in the stomach” upon diagnosis. Because of this feeling of loss of control, it is essential that the patient gain some sense of control. This can be accomplished by advocacy. Either the patient as his/her own advocate, or identifying someone who is willing to be the patient’s advocate. As part of this advocacy, there are a few strategies that will benefit the patient as he or she goes from diagnosis, to treatment, to recovery and survivorship and in some cases palliative/hospice care. Diligent record keeping is essential on this journey. Since this is about the patient, keeping an organized binder with all of your medical records allows you to present yourself for second opinions without too much effort and ease the task of coordination and continuity of care. It also gives the patient a sense of control within the context of his or her medical care. Community Resources such as the Simms/Mann Center, American Cancer Society, the Hirshberg Foundation, and Wellness Community are excellent in providing a wide array of support from individual and family counseling, financial assistance, nutrition counseling, directed exercise, and networking with other pancreatic cancer patients. Often the initial feeling of being alone is assuaged once a patient discovers these community resources. Although the journey of pancreatic cancer can have many hoops to jump through, the journey is made easier with the available resources and support systems that you can add to your toolbox.
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Doctor In the Spotlight:
Timothy R. Donahue, MD
Editors note: DOCTOR IN THE SPOTLIGHT is designed to briefly introduce our readers to the dedicated medical professionals at the Hirshberg Pancreatic Cancer Center at UCLA. BORN: RAISED: EDUCATION: MARRIED TO: HOBBIES:
9/15/1975 Boston, Massachusetts BA and MD at Northwestern University, Evanston & Chicago, IL Meaghan Golf and running
MOST VALUABLE THING YOU HAVE LEARNED FROM YOUR EXPERIENCE IN THE LAB SO FAR: My laboratory is focused on identifying the genetic and molecular events that are responsible for the development of pancreatic cancer. We have drawn on the resources from the Hirshberg Pancreatic Tissue Bank to complete a comprehensive array analysis of 50 tumors that were resected at UCLA. This work has been in collaboration with Drs. Howard Reber and David Dawson. We have identified some key novel genes that are associated with poor disease-free survival and are now focusing on the contribution of the EGFR and SRC signaling pathways to pancreatic cancer progression. Our overall goal is to identify novel predictive biomarkers and targets for effective molecular therapies. Through this work, I have developed
a keen understanding of and appreciation for the molecular complexity of pancreatic cancer. As Dr. Murray Korc described at the 6th Annual Agi Hirshberg Symposium on Pancreatic Cancer, it is the heterogeneous profile that makes this disease particularly difficult to treat and is also responsible for the overall poor prognosis. NOTABLE QUOTE:
“Dr. Judah Folkman often told his trainees: ‘Never destroy hope.’ We must continue to research the causes of this disease in order to improve our treatment strategies and to keep our patients’ hopes alive.”
How You Can Help Help fight pancreatic cancer today by making a purchase in the Hirshberg Foundation e-store. Our best-selling wristbands come embossed with our motto “You Can Hope or You Can Help” and are sold in sets of 10 for $20.00. We recently added new items so you can be environmentally friendly and spread awareness at the same time. Our 24 ounce water bottle is made from high quality 18/8 stainless steel, is bisphenol A (BPA) free and is available in silver or white for $18.00. Our new purple totes feature our trademark callto-action and are sold in sets of 3 for $18.00. Check out all our e-store items on our website and HELP today.
Patient In the Spotlight:
Nancy Amato, Survivor My name is Nancy Amato and I am a survivor of pancreatic cancer. I will start my story from the beginning. In August, 2006, I had an episode of pancreatitis that would not respond to treatment. I had been having episodes of pancreatitis for about ten years but there was something different about this one so I was admitted to the hospital. All my scans were clean but I still wasn’t feeling any better. It wasn’t until I became jaundiced that everyone realized this was a serious problem. I was transferred to the Cleveland Clinic where I had a stent implanted which made me feel a little better, but still not great. An endoscopic ultrasound was performed which revealed a pancreatic mass, and I was referred to a wonderful, kind, highly-skilled surgeon. After many tests and discussions, I was scheduled for a Whipple procedure. I’ll spare you the gory details, but will tell you it’s a huge surgery. . .some organs are removed and some are rearranged, but it was the best chance I had to fight this horrible disease. As they began the surgery, on October 5th, they found a lesion on my liver (making me a Stage 4 and not a candidate for the Whipple procedure). The lesion was biopsied and came back negative for cancer so they proceeded with the Whipple. Five days after surgery the surgeon came back and told me that the final pathology report on the liver lesion was actually cancer. I knew he had just saved my life. After my surgery I began a regimen of chemotherapy and radiation at the University of Michigan before I was accepted into a vaccine study at Johns Hopkins, developed by Dr.
Elizabeth Jaffee. Setting goals was an important part of my diagnosis and treatment. I wanted to attend my daughter’s graduation. I also wanted to attend my son’s, two years later. Once I reached both of these goals, I decided to take on my next challenge. All of my kids are in to marathons and triathlons so I decided to sign myself up and train for the LA Cancer Challenge 5K with the Hirshberg Foundation. On October 25, 2009, I completed my first 5K with over 30 family members and friends from all over the United States crossing the finish line with me. My sisters, nieces and co-workers surprised me when they flew in from out of town to join Team Nancy Pants. In February, 2010, I received the good news that my 3 year scan was clean. As I look back over the years I have been very blessed. I have been married to my wonderful husband, Chris, for 29 years, we have four beautiful children, I’ve been a nurse anesthetist for almost 30 years and love my job, I am a 3 year pancreatic cancer survivor, and I am grateful for each day and live life to the fullest. I don’t want to be the miracle for pancreatic cancer... I want to be the norm! In the beginning I was too scared to believe I could survive. With each day I get a little stronger and a little more vocal. Agi was one of the first people I spoke with early in my treatment. She personally returned my phone call and gave me tons of encouragement and advice. From the beginning Agi offered me hope when no one else would. I will always be grateful to the Hirshberg Foundation…they make me feel like a part of their “Foundation family”. It is because of people like Agi and the Hirshberg Foundation that one day soon I will be the norm.
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Volunteer In the Spotlight:
Maggie Mahoney, Team Captain of Ellen’s Angels
As I sit down to reflect on my time working with the Hirshberg Foundation I am overwhelmed with many emotions. First and foremost I think of my beautiful, amazing, and inspiring, mother Ellen Mahoney, who passed away in June 2006. Her short five month battle is the reason I got involved in the fight against pancreatic cancer. I found out about the Hirshberg Foundation on the internet. In October of 2006, I created Team “Ellen’s Angels” for the LA Cancer Challenge. I thought I would fly down from San Francisco for the weekend to run it myself, but little did I know, my whole family flew out from Washington D.C. to cross the finish line with me. My mom is the reason my family, friends, and I will continue to run with Team “Ellen’s Angels” at the LA Cancer Challenge every October. I am a part of the Hirshberg Foundation to honor her memory.
“You Can Hope, Or You Can Help” is the Foundation’s motto. And it represents how my mother lived her life. She was one to take action and make the lives of the people around her, better. Even after her death, people still tell me how my mother changed their lives. This is how I hope to live my life.
The work we are doing to find a cure cannot bring my mother back but I believe our efforts can help the lives of others. This is the reason I will continue to fight. In many ways the Foundation has become my extended family. I’m working to cure this disease in honor of my mother and for all of loved ones we have lost. I will work hand and hand with the foundation until we have a cure.
Fight Pancreatic Cancer with every purchase you make!
Apply for our special Visa® Platinum credit card through Capital One® Card Lab Connect. Our card has no annual fee. Use the custom card designs to show your support for pancreatic cancer research and the Hirshberg Foundation will receive $50 after your first purchase and at least 1% of all other purchases. Visit our website to apply now and support our pancreatic cancer research program with every purchase you make.
Tribute Fund Spotlight: Tribute Fund Events are organized by dedicated individuals who want to honor or memorialize someone who has been affected by pancreatic cancer and help find a cure at the same time. We have chosen a few recent events to highlight as they show the vastly different ways people are making a difference. We are grateful to everyone who hosted an event to benefit the Hirshberg Foundation this past year. To learn more about hosting a fundraising event, please visit our website.
Kim Pietro’s Ironman Fund In Honor Of John Van Decker
us and I finished the Ironman in a very respectable fashion. We share the same goal in 2010: to each get stronger and tougher mentally, physically and spiritually.
by Kim Pietro
Under the great guidance of my parents, I feel a responsibility to be part of something much bigger than myself. To promote a more just society, to serve others and to stand up for things that I believe in. Together, we are committed to helping the Hirshberg Foundation find a cure.
When my father John was diagnosed with Stage III pancreatic cancer in August 2008, his world did not stop. He continues to rise to the top of his class with a will to live for his family, for the Jets, the Yankees, his home and for his work as a mason contractor. Two years since symptoms were evident, this is a man who provides and relies on love to carry him through the best and worst of times.
Right now, pancreatic cancer is essentially an unsolvable problem. If staying power is any sign of victory, we are very blessed to have it. We realize not every person can be healed, but we believe that any disease can be cured. We live by high expectations of ourselves, our friends and family, of our society and now of the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research. I became personally involved with the Hirshberg Foundation when I was looking to utilize my 2009 Lake Placid Ironman triathlon as a platform to raise awareness and money for pancreatic cancer research. The Ironman is the ultimate one day endurance event that is propelled by the human body and driven by the mind. 2009 was a victory- John is still with
Dal Bon Memorial Golf Tournament by Brad Dal Bon
I lost both of my parents to pancreatic cancer! My mom, Merrilee Dal Bon, passed away on November 10, 2000 and my dad, Jim Dal Bon, on May 6, 2008. I have felt a real need to do something in their memory because I alone cannot cure cancer. Therefore, I was thinking that giving money for research to cure pancreatic cancer would be a good cause. I found the Hirshberg Foundation and was pleased that their
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mission to fund research and find an early detection method, and ultimately, a cure was the same as mine! Seeing both of my parents suffer through their battle with the cancer was tremendously difficult. Among the emotions I still feel is anger. I am angry this was happening to them. I am angry that my two sons, Owen, 9, and Matthew, 7, will not get to know their grandparents better. What I am most angry about is the cancer.
2.4 mile swim, a 112 mile bike ride and a 26.2 mile marathon. Throughout the event, I wore a purple Hirshberg Foundation wristband representing the fight against the disease and ongoing research efforts to find a cure. I can recall looking down at the wristband and gaining inspiration and strength, especially during the hours spent on the bike and throughout the marathon.
I thought, “What can I do now?” Pancreatic cancer did not waste any time debilitating my parents. I came up with the idea of organizing the Dal Bon Memorial Golf Tournament as a way to pay tribute to my parents and to help battle pancreatic cancer. Last year’s first annual golf tournament kicked off at Alta Sierra Country Club in Grass Valley, CA. Sixty golfers teed off that day and the evening concluded with a donation of over $6,000 to the Hirshberg Foundation.
So, I am fighting back, and I would like you to fight with me The Dal Bon Memorial Golf .
Tournament’s main goal is to raise funds for pancreatic cancer research. In recent years my dad had started to really enjoy golf. We had a lot of great times together on the golf course. I feel I owe it to my parents to fight against the disease that took their lives, but have fun as well. The Second Annual Dal Bon Memorial Golf Tournament will take place on July 24, 2010 in Grass Valley, CA. Golfers can golf. Volunteers can contribute their time. Sponsors can donate to a very good cause. All who give will be doing a great service to me, my family and all those diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Knowing that great people will give with the kindness of their hearts is all we can ask for. For more information on the Second Annual Dal Bon Memorial Golf Tournament, please visit http://dbmemorial.ning.com.
Ironman Fundraiser for Pancreatic Cancer Research
Through the generosity of family, friends and even strangers, I raised over $3,000 for the Foundation. I’m scheduled to participate in the 2010 Arizona Ironman event again in November, and plan to once again use it as a fundraiser event. I’ll be wearing the purple wristband throughout my training and in the event, on behalf of those impacted by the disease, and as a reminder to remain strong and keep working towards the Finish Line….and a cure.
Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament by Michael Meister My father, Larry Meister, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in March of 2005 and passed away just three short months later. My father was a great man who stood out within
by John C. Werner On November 23, 2009, I competed in the Tempe, Arizona Ironman triathlon in memory of my mother, who lost her battle with pancreatic cancer. The event started at 7am, just as the sun was rising over the desert horizon. When the start cannon sounded, all participants were given 17 hours to navigate the Ironman course: a
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Tribute Fund Spotlight, continued the community and always found a way to be involved. I was raised with the notion that it is important to make a difference in the world no matter how big or small. It was with great joy that I could do whatever I could to help spread awareness, raise money and fight pancreatic cancer. In memory of my father, I began an online search for a Foundation that I could join in the fight with and help to support. I decided on the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research for their cutting edge research being conducted at UCLA and around the US and because of their heartfelt commitment that money raised would go directly to finding a cure. On June 26, 2009 I held the First Annual Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament, benefiting the Hirshberg Foundation, in memory of my father Larry. This spectacular night was filled with Texas Hold’em Poker, food, a great raffle and terrific prize packages for the over 100 people who participated. The event raised over $10,000 for the Foundation. It was such a successful night that we held our Second Annual Texas Hold’em event on March 12, 2010. We are also looking forward to coming up to LA for our fourth LA Cancer Challenge in October. My wife and I have felt a warm connection to the Hirshberg Foundation. We ask that everyone please consider making a donation to the Foundation in memory of your loved one this year!
Kick Pancreatic Cancer by Catherine Moore I am a senior at Waynesburg University and a member of the women’s soccer team. Last August, just as I was getting ready to return to school and was looking forward to my final soccer season, I learned that my father, Ken Moore, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. As I struggled with his diagnosis, and tried to balance family, school and soccer, I decided it was time to do something. I presented the idea of having a fundraiser to my teammates and coaches, who were supportive and excited to help. At first I wasn’t sure how I was going to raise money, but after brainstorming we decided on the idea of holding the event during a Saturday home match in which both the boy’s and girl’s soccer teams were playing. We chose the date of October 3, and set a goal of raising $2,000. My teammates sprang into action to gain the support of the community and Waynesburg University. Many companies and parents donated baskets full of prizes for a raffle.
Other donations included start-up money, decorations, printed banners, and t-shirts that were sold before and after the match. All the proceeds from the concession stand sales were also donated to us. I was startled to see the number of people who felt moved enough to help us. And, I was completely awestruck with the total amount of money we were raising. With help from Waynesburg University and the families of players, the event went off without a hitch. The morning of the event I was extremely nervous and anxious to see what kind of turn out we would have. The event itself was a surreal experience that I never expected. I was completely overwhelmed with the amount of support and love that I felt. When my dad walked in to the stadium, I couldn’t help but feel totally overwhelmed with emotion. My dad is a role model for me, and a rock for my family. To see how proud he was in his black and purple t-shirt for the game was absolutely amazing. Geared up in purple uniforms, my team was unmistakably inspired and ready to play that day. After planning this event for just a mere month, we ended up raising over $10,000 for the Hirshberg Foundation. We beat our goal five times over! Even though I will be graduating, plans for next year’s event are already under way. My dad is a very strong individual and fighter, and we both plan on attending next year’s game to support the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research.
Wedding & Celebrations Spotlight Our Wedding & Celebrations Program is a wonderful way for those who are blessed to be celebrating a wedding, B’nai mitzvah or other milestone to also help us find a cure. We are pleased to offer this free program so that couples can discover ways to incorporate charitable giving in their wedding celebration and beyond! More and more, people are replacing once-traditional party favors with a meaningful message on a place card or tag that lets their guests know that a donation to the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research has been made in their honor. This program can provide a personal and memorable way to celebrate your event while supporting our research and patient services.
Hilary Price Morgan – In Memory of Rebecca Price After many months of misdiagnosis, my mother, Rebecca Price, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January of 2008. Her diagnosis came at a time when our family was looking forward to a couple of exciting changes. I was newly engaged and my brother and his wife were expecting their first child. Because aggressive treatment needed to start and my husband, who is in the military, was deploying in just a few weeks, it was not possible for us to have a traditional wedding that my mom would have liked for me to have. My mother lost her battle eleven weeks later. It was a harsh reality--my mom would not be at my wedding or at the birth of her first grandson. After many conversations with the oncologist, it was alarming to hear that there were not many options for pancreatic cancer patients. It was during those conversations that I knew more medical advances were needed in order to give pancreatic cancer patients a chance to survive. Over the next few months, my fiancé and I began to plan our wedding. We knew that, in lieu of wedding favors, we wanted to donate to a foundation that supported pancreatic cancer research. After researching many organizations, we came across the Hirshberg Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research. I was encouraged by the Hirshberg Foundation, because their main focus is to raise funds to support pancreatic cancer research in hopes that there will one day be a cure. After sending in our contribution, we received purple organza satchels and cards explaining that a donation was made in lieu of wedding favors and in memory of my mother.
After participating in the Hirshberg Foundation’s Wedding and Celebrations Program, I began to receive updates on medical research that the Foundation was supporting and opportunities to participate in other events they sponsored. One of these emails contained information regarding the Hirshberg Training Team and their participation as an official charity at the Los Angeles Marathon. I immediately wanted to join the team. This was another opportunity for me to raise funds for pancreatic cancer research and bring awareness to such a devastating disease. I look forward to completing my first marathon in memory of my mother in March. Though my mother was not able to attend my wedding in person or see me complete my first marathon, her spirit and love continues to be with me everyday. In honor of her courageous battle, I will continue to support the Hirshberg Foundation’s efforts to raise awareness and money for pancreatic cancer research.
Memorial & Tribute Funds The Hirshberg Foundation Memorial & Tribute Funds were created by individuals to honor or memorialize someone who has been affected by pancreatic cancer and help find a cure at the same time. Each Memorial & Tribute Fund has a standing page on our website where the creator of the fund can upload pictures, share their story, and allow friends and family to donate securely to their fund. Our funds also provide the opportunity to honor or remember someone during times of celebration, such as a wedding or birthday, or while participating in a sporting event, such as a marathon or triathlon. Funds can be created for any reason, event or occasion. To learn more about each of our Memorial & Tribute Funds, visit our website and click on How You Can Help.
A special thanks to those who created Tribute Funds (as of February, 2010):
• James Hoback Pancreatic Cancer Memorial Fund
• Mike “Poppy” Geffers Memorial Fund • Ronald J.Arnston Memorial Fund
• Patricia Grace Allwood (Duff) Memorial Fund
• Thelma Gordon Memorial Fund
• Lon Gripentrog Memorial Fund • Jim Hovorka Memorial Fund
• Marcella Flewellen Memorial Fund • Bruce Kaye Memorial Fund
• Dennis Blakeway Memorial Fund
• In Honor of Peggie Dill
• The Gregory Allen Burch Memorial Fund
• Rano Papini Memorial Fund
• Jan Bossung Memorial Fund
• Norval Douglas Chapuis, Jr. Memorial Fund
• Dee Patterson Memorial Fund
• Adam Zauder Memorial Fund
• Joan Connolly Memorial Fund
• Nancy Pennell Memorial Fund • Eloy Portillo Memorial Fund • Perry F. Driscoll Memorial Fund
• Emily Fabbri Memorial Fund • Steven David Farver Memorial Fund - Bentonville Half Marathon • Rick Foster Memorial Fund • The Daniel Gallo Memorial Fund • Barbara L. Gold Memorial Fund
• Lou Gertha Bonner Memorial Fund • Edward Liebman Memorial Fund
• Robert J. Burmeister Memorial Fund • Jon Nichols Memorial Fund • Steven G. Martin Memorial Fund
• Gail Jordan Simpson Memorial Fund • Dale Williams Memorial Fund • Claudia Sue Gier Memorial Fund • Kimberly Monroe Heady Memorial Fund
• Timothy J. Oleneack Memorial Fund • Gregory Partin Research Fund • Cynthia Croteau Memorial Fund
• Honoring John Van Decker Lake Placid Ford Ironman • Elizabeth A Purul Memorial Fund • Louis A. Rogers Memorial Fund
• Nancy Ann Rosenberg Memorial Fund • William Rozman Jr.
• Joan Schwegler (Belanger) Memorial Fund
• Marcus’ 40th Birthday Celebration in memory of his mom
• Anthony P. Straub III Memorial Fund • Carol Thorpe Memorial Fund • The Curtis Allen Memorial Fund • Bruce Mytrysak Memorial Fund
• Cecil Leffel Memorial Fund
• Shirley Helen Mitchell Memorial Fund
• Kae and Jerry Railsback Memorial Fund • Jae Hoon Yu Memorial Fund
• Dr. V. A. Ziboh, Ph.D Memorial Fund
The 12th Annual LA Cancer Challenge 5/10K & Kids Can Cure Fun Run was held on October 25, 2009 at the Veterans Administration Grounds in West Los Angeles. More than 4000 people participated as runners, walkers, volunteers and exhibitors. Hosted by Michael Muhney from “The Young & the Restless� (see photo, bottom row, second from left), the LACC included costume contests, live entertainment, a Pumpkin Pancake Breakfast and huge expo. Zac Sunderland, the
youngest person to sail around the world alone, was presented with the Champion Award (see photo, second row, far left). We raised more than $556,000, our largest fundraising total to date. For our 13th annual event, to be held on Halloween morning, Sunday, October 31, our goal is to raise more than $600,000 and have 4500 registered participants. To register or get more information, please visit www. LACancerChallenge.com.
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A 9 year survivor is beating the odds by Agi Hirshberg As the founder of the Foundation, the best part of the LA Cancer Challenge is meeting the families who have joined our fight, and who affirm my commitment to eradicating this disease. One such family that I connected with at this years’ event included Suzie Monotosi Greenbaum, Team Captain of “Run for Pedro”, and her dad, 9 year survivor Pedro Motonishi. “Run for Pedro” was a familiar team in our offices. Suzie participated in her first LA Cancer Challenge (LACC) back in 2005, in order to support her dad who had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2001. She became a team captain as a way to involve family and friends, and has been a part of every LACC since then. At the LACC last October I invited Pedro and Suzie to visit the Hirshberg Laboratories on the UCLA campus. The following month I met Pedro and Suzie on the UCLA campus to spend a few hours visiting our labs. Usually when I take guests on lab tours, it is the doctors who do all the talking, while the patients or families listen. This visit was different. This time, it was the doctors who were listening, fascinated by Pedro’s story. He told us his ancestors migrated from China to Peru, and eventually ended up in Southern California. For treatment, he has received different chemotherapy regimens over the years, including Gemzar/Xeloda, Iressa and Gemzar/Cicsplatin and has also undergone radiation. Along with the chemotherapy and Chinese Herbal Medicine, Pedro also does electrical acupuncture. He attributes most of his 9-year survival to a regimen of Chinese Herbs obtained from a physician in Los Angeles. All of this while still continuing to play soccer and enjoy a game of golf every now and then. A picture of good health, Pedro was anxious to complete the tour to return home in time for his soccer league game! While Pedro’s survival rate remains the exception and not the standard, his story is an inspirational one. In addition to fighting the disease himself, he also offers guidance to others who are interested learning more about his combination of traditional and non-traditional therapies. Pedro’s story has shown that there are ways to manage this disease and live fulfilling lives well beyond the typically tragic post-diagnosis life expectancy. Our fight is to make Pedro’s story the standard and not the exception. .
We are proud of our donors Our Donor Recognition Wall is located in the lobby of the Macdonald Medical Research Lab (MRL) at the UCLA School of Medicine, where the Hirshberg Laboratories are located. The individual plaques are our way of recogniing our most generous donors (gifts of $50,000 or more). If you would like more information, please contact Agi at 310-473-5121.
Hirshberg Training Team Runs from the Stadium to the Sea Last fall the Hirshberg Foundation was honored to be named an Official Charity of the Los Angeles Marathon, which had just recently unveiled a buzz-worthy new “Stadium to the Sea” course. Starting at historic Dodger Stadium, the course would pass through Hollywood, the Sunset Strip, Beverly Hills, and end at the beach in Santa Monica.
Our team of 26 runners and walkers, many of whom had never participated in a marathon before, trained to run 26.2 miles and committed to fundraise $1,000 each for the Foundation. One team member even flew in from South Carolina to run in memory of her mom as her husband cheered her on from Afghanistan. The 2010 Hirshberg Training Team all crossed the finish line in honor or in memory of a loved one touched by pancreatic cancer and raised a combined total of more than $54,000!!! At the celebration dinner after the race, Agi Hirshberg announced that an upcoming Seed Grant (grants awarded in increments of $50,000 to promising new research) will be named in honor of our team. Each team member will be notified when the recipient is awarded next fall and eventually of the research he or she publishes. The Hirshberg Foundation also hosted a Cheer Station at Mile 21. Our 350 volunteers, deemed “Team Purple”, wore purple from head-to-toe, and were given purple pom poms and purple signs to wave as runners passed by. The energy and motivation our crowd gave to the event’s 25,000 runners was palpable. According to team member Erinn Tobin, “The purple party was so awesome. You totally pumped me up to get to the ocean.” Even nonteam members were thanking Team Purple for their efforts. Blogger Billy Burger wrote, “The good folks of the Hirshberg
Foundation were out in full force on that first turn down famed San Vicente Boulevard and let me tell you, they were LOUD. In a sea of purple, all I heard were cheering and support that instantly energized me and those around me. That had me in even greater spirits the rest of the way.” Positive feedback from our cheer volunteers confirmed that the experience was rewarding for all. The Hirshberg Training Team also had 8 additional participants run in this year’s NPN LA Marathon 5K at Dodger Stadium, which served as the official warm up race to the LA Marathon. It was a great way to tap into the energy of the LA Marathon without running 26.2 miles, and bring awareness to pancreatic cancer as well. This small group raised an additional $4,000 for the Foundation. The next Hirshberg Training Team program begins this November and includes tips from experts on injury prevention, nutrition, form and technique. Virtual training is also available. Our 18 week comprehensive personalized training program is for runners and walkers of all levels. Participation in our program includes your marathon entry fee, training, our Celebration Dinner & more! You can hope, or you can HELP! Join us in Los Angeles in 2011 as we travel from the Stadium to the Sea!
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HIRSHBERG FOUNDATION FOR PANCREATIC CANCER RESEARCH FOUNDATION NEWSLETTER 2010
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Calendar of Events DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
May 22, 2010 CUT FOR A CURE - HAIRCUT EVENT Sycamore, IL stephenalansalon@verizon.net
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
July 24, 2010 2ND ANNUAL DAL BON MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Alta Sierra Country Club - Grass Valley, CA http://dbmemorial.ning.com/
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
October 9, 2010 2ND ANNUAL KICK PANCREATIC CANCER SOCCER MATCH AT WAYNESBURG UNIVERSITY Waynesburg, PA spi3126@student.waynesburg.edu
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
October 11, 2010 3RD ANNUAL KEVIN MIYA GOLF CLASSIC Pittsburg, CA pittraffic@yahoo.com
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
October 31, 2010 13TH ANNUAL LA CANCER CHALLENGE 5K/10K WALK/RUN & KIDS CAN CURE FUN RUN West Los Angeles, CA www.LACancerChallenge.com
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
November 2010 GLENDA JANE KOFFLER MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT Pasadena, CA kjamkoffler@gmail.com
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
Winter 2010 SCOTTY FEST GOLF TOURNAMENT Sunol, CA daniel.holmes@ferguson.com
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
Winter 2010 COTTON FEST Etowah, TN bluegrass_4_ever@comcast.net
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
Spring 2011 THIRD ANNUAL TEXAS HOLD’EM EVENT Phoenix, AZ mjmmeister@gmail.com
DATE EVENT LOCATION CONTACT
Spring 2011 3RD ANNUAL REAL RESULTS FITNESS 5K & KIDS DASH The District at Green Valley Ranch - Las Vegas, NV www.realresultsfitness.com
2990 S. SEPULVEDA BLVD. SUITE 300C • LOS ANGELES, CA 90064 (310) 473-5121 • (310) 473-5107 (FAX) • WWW.PANCREATIC.ORG