DIFFERENTIATORS

2016

ANNUAL REPORT

The PMC at PHLBI is the only in-house research center dedicated to eradicating mesothelioma through our own research programs and patient care, using the most transparent and cost-efficient ways possible.

What makes the Pacific Mesothelioma Center (PMC) at The Pacific Heart Lung & Blood Institute (PHLBI) different? We’re the only research center dedicated to eradicating mesothelioma through our own research programs and patient care. This enables us to make research advances for tomorrow in tandem with providing care for newly diagnosed and current patients. To the best of our knowledge, the PMC is the only research organization in the United States—perhaps the world—conducting mesenchymal stem cell research with the express purpose of discovering therapies and even cures for mesothelioma.

The board of directors and staff of PHLBI continually strives to run the institute in the most transparent and cost-efficient ways possible. Every dollar is directed to where it can make the most difference. Our fundraising expenses are 2.7% of our expenses, and it costs us $11 to raise $100. (The benchmark for highly efficient charities to raise $100 is $25 or less according to Charity Watch).

As a result, PHLBI has been recognized by a number of not-for-profit rating organizations as a “best-in-class” organization.

GREAT NONPROFITS TOP-RATED AWARDS

In 2016, PHLBI was recognized with the prestigious Great Nonprofits Top-Rated Award, a “people’s choice” award that is earned based on reviews from the people that we serve, our volunteers and our donors. www.toprated.greatnonprofits.org/

GUIDESTAR EXCHANGE GOLD LEVEL

In order to earn GuideStar’s Gold level designation, PHLBI provides additional transparency to financial statements and operational details. The PHLBI believes that sharing governance, leadership and financial impact information is vital for donors to understand and support our mission. www.guidestar.org

PACIFIC HEART, LUNG, & BLOOD INSTITUTE 2016 ANNUAL REPORT 13

2016

ANNUAL REPORT

A FOCUS ON PATIENTS

Did you know? Mesothelioma is so rare that only 2,000 - 3,000 new cases are diagnosed each year.

Mesothelioma presents a one-two punch for those diagnosed. First, it is an extremely deadly cancer that must be treated swiftly. Second, as a rare cancer, information, specialists, treatment and support are especially hard to find.

PHLBI is dedicated to finding a cure and treatment options for mesothelioma and other diseases of the heart, lungs and blood. Until that cure is found, PHLBI is also seeking innovative ways to help patients with these disorders find support and information on treatment options. The Pacific Mesothelioma Center (PMC) at the Pacific Heart Lung and Blood Institute (PHLBI) aims to improve the length and quality of mesothelioma patients’ lives through superior educational, networking and treatment options.

The PMC has three initiatives to help patients navigate this new world.

FIRST CONNECTION PROGRAM

This program puts newly diagnosed patients in touch with other patients, survivors and families to share experiences. New patients gain a first-hand perspective from other patients on how they reached their decisions, why they chose one treatment plan or doctor over another and, most importantly, what to expect while undergoing treatment, in terms of side effects and recovery time.

MESOTHELIOMA: A PATIENT’S ROADMAP

This resource helps patients navigate the many roads before them on their journey from proper diagnosis, to treatment and coping, providing important answers in one place.

PATIENT AND CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP

Patients requested support beyond the First Connection program, so the PMC developed an ongoing support group for patients and their caregivers. The group meets once a month with a trained facilitator, and provides a space for patients to connect as a group and provide support to one another.