Happy New Year! As we begin 2019, I am definitely approaching my work as co-chair of the Gastric Cancer Foundation with increased determination, deeper understanding, and great hope.

In late 2017, I learned that I had breast cancer. Suddenly, I was a cancer patient, facing the shock and vulnerability that all cancer patients experience when receiving this news. Fortunately, my disease was diagnosed early and could be treated. I am now well again. Patients with gastric cancer are often not as fortunate. The disease is typically diagnosed late and treatments are still limited. Since gastric cancer is less common, far fewer resources have been directed to the diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of these patients.

That is why the work of the Gastric Cancer Foundation is so essential. Our small foundation has been working diligently for the last nine years to raise awareness and increase investments in research. The pace of progress is accelerating, and we will continue to press forward until better diagnostics and treatments - and a cure - are available. I hope we can count on you to join us in this important work. Please consider making a donation today.