In cancer research, hope can be realized in how we innovate. Inventive clinical trials can lead to novel approaches and new, accessible medicines that ultimately bring better outcomes to patients. This dynamic is especially true in pancreatic cancer, a historically challenging form of cancer to treat with survival rates that have remained stubbornly low over time. It is a disease that demands urgent innovation, attention, and resources to develop more treatments for patients.
Beth and Rich Kendall hope to do just that. With a generous donation of $1 million, Beth and Rich established the Kendall Family Fund for Innovative Pancreatic Cancer Therapies. Managed under the expert direction of Brian Wolpin, MD, MPH, director of the Gastrointestinal Cancer Center and the Robert T. and Judith B. Hale Chair in Pancreatic Cancer at Dana-Farber, the fund will directly fuel clinical trials for pancreatic cancer while also bolstering new treatments and therapies for gastrointestinal cancer patients. Wolpin will also be able to prioritize the recruitment of key personnel who are essential to the advancement of research and clinical trials. This multi-faceted approach places innovation at its core by supplying resources across disciplines to accelerate progress in the field.
“We believe in Dana-Farber’s commitment to excellence and their relentless pursuit of new solutions for patients,” said Rich. “It is with great optimism that we look forward to the advancements our partnership will bring.”
After witnessing Dana-Farber’s quality of care firsthand during Beth’s father’s treatment for pancreatic cancer, Beth and Rich were inspired to take an active role in supporting Dana-Farber’s efforts to understand, prevent, and treat pancreatic cancer. This latest gift represents one of numerous contributions from the Kendall family, cementing their family’s commitment to pancreatic cancer research.
“We feel a deep responsibility to contribute to a future where pancreatic cancer no longer takes away precious moments from families,” said Beth, “This fund is a tribute to the resilience and courage of those battling this illness. It is our hope that through innovative research and cutting-edge treatments, we can turn the tide against pancreatic cancer and offer new hope to patients and their families.”
For more stories about the impact of philanthropy at Dana-Farber, please visit DanaFarberImpact.org.