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University Development Office
Because of You

Running for a Cure

Researchers at the Purdue University Center for Cancer Research do not talk about “if” there is a cure for cancer; they talk in terms of “when.” Because of you – they are making discoveries that are bringing us closer to finding that cure.

Running for a cureThe Center for Cancer Research is one of only 66 centers in the United States designated as a National Cancer Institute by the National Institutes of Health. Every day, researchers are unlocking the secrets to discovering innovative ways to improve early detection methods, and developing original and effective treatments. With research limited by the amount of financial resources available, loyal donors are reaching into their own pockets to contribute to the cause that helps keep groundbreaking discoveries on course. 

Each year, over 120 volunteers rally the forces of more than 1,800 individuals in the community (students, faculty, staff, donors and friends), who come together to make a difference in cancer research by participating in The Challenge – a 5K run/walk, which has raised over $175,000 for cancer research.

These funds support a grant for innovative research at the Center for which member researchers can apply. Last year’s award recipient, Dan Raftery, professor of analytical and physical chemistry at Purdue, is using the award to focus on development of new diagnostic tests for early cancer detection as well as development of a new diagnostic test for esophageal cancer. Previous awards have funded research in breast cancer, pre-clinical testing of anti-myeloma and other areas.

It is a collective effort and the impact is profound. The Challenge is up to you!

Editor’s note:  More information on the 2012 event can be found at www.thepurduechallenge.com.

Photo credit: Julie Hendon (jhendon photography)