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About 64,770 new cases of kidney cancer [40,250 men & 24,520 women] will occur in the United States in 2012.
- Worldwide 200,000 individuals are alive with kidney cancer & 100,000 will die of kidney cancer each year.
My life’s purpose over the last 14 years was to bring worldwide awareness about kidney cancer and to raise $100k for kidney cancer research in memory of my brother, and best friend, John. In 1999 after my brother John passed away, I made a commitment to the team of doctors at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center who were studying and making scientific advances in kidney cancer that I would raise $100k by December 31, 2012 to support their research efforts. With only 125 days remaining until December 31st a 14 year total of $88,795.00 has been donated and we are only $11,205.00 away from meeting the $100k commitment that I made to the team of doctors who have dedicated themselves to finding a cure for kidney cancer. One example of recent insights that the donations have made possible, has been an improved understanding of the interactions between a kidney tumor and the patient’s immune system. This knowledge has shed light onto why many immunotherapies are often ineffective. The final $11,205.00 will be used to fund the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center team of doctors to continue their research efforts and to make advances in the fight against kidney cancer.
Over the last 14 years I have received hundreds of notes of support and encouragement from people from all over the United States who have donated to kidney cancer research. I just want you to know how much I appreciate the notes you sent to me and that I saved every one of the notes and I put them in a Scrap Book that I made up – so if you sent me a note over the last 14 years, it meant a lot to me, and it now is in my Scrap Book.
Listed below are some of the many notes that were sent to me over the last 14 years from donors who have been effected by kidney cancer. These notes and many others that I have received are what motivate me to train year round and to finish all of my worldwide marathons. When I read the notes that I get from people with kidney cancer or are effected by the disease they inspire me to do whatever I can to bring worldwide awareness about kidney cancer and to raise $100k for kidney cnacer research.
From Janet – KY [2012]: I read your article in the recent Digital Alumni Magazine. My mom also died from Renal Cancer so your cause is extra special to me. Glad to help.
From John – MA [2008]: Next week I start chemo treatment for advanced renal CA at Dr Michael Atkins clinic at Beth Israel Deaconess. Thanks for your efforts to get dollars into his program. I have been impressed with the clinical staff during the work-up. I anticipate the same during the treatment with IL-2.
From Allison - NE [2008]: Bob I am happy to help. I learned recently that my dad has metastic kidney cancer. He had his left kidney removed a few weeks ago and will start on a drug called Sutent next week. I appreciate so much all the work you’ve done to raise money in memory of your brother. I too am a marathon runner so when I found your website Iwas thrilled. Please keep up your wonderful work and know that people like me are grateful to you and your brother for helping to make new research possible.
From Liz – GA [2006]: My husband was diagnosed 4 weeks ago with kidney cancer. My husband is 42 and we have 3 little ones 1,3, and 8. With research and hopefully great Dr’s on our team, I plan on him being here with me when the kids graduate from high school. I just wanted to say thank you and I will make a donation tonight. Good luck on your next marathon.
From Gene – CA [2003]: I appreciate that your efforts are being made for a meaningful cause. One of our best East Coast friends, a mother of four in her late-thirties, just last month completed five years since losing a kidney to the disease, and she is a great example of what can be accomplished in the field. After a rigorous treatment and recovery process she’s now setting an awesome example of being a great mother and wife.
From Joe – MA [2000]: My brother, Paul had a cancerous kidney removed about 3 years ago, but he has recovered well. He will get tratment for lesions in the bladder but so far, everything is okay.
From Joyce – MA [1999]: My father is currently being treated for kidney cancer – he only recently was referred to Beth Israel Deaconess. I am going to see if my father can get a consultation with Dr Michael B. Atkins. I thank you not only for running the US Marine Corps marathon for a good cause, but also for providing our family with some potentially useful information. I will spread the word about your fund raising effort.
Have a great day,
Bob
