Medical Speakers Series Raises $150K for Cancer Patients

THE WOODLANDS, Texas - The Life Beyond Cancer Foundation's (LBCF) 2nd Annual Distinguished Medical Speaker Series on November 8, 2010 at the US Oncology headquarters raised $150,000 to benefit cancer patients across the country.

The fundraiser is used to educate others about cancer prevention and its challenges, including access to care and treatment, as well as to inspire people to give back to those in need. The event featured nationally-recognized experts in the cancer community, this year's distinguished speaker was Dr. LaSalle D Leffall, Jr., M.D., F.A.C.S.

“I was touched and honored to speak at the Life Beyond Cancer Foundation event,” said Dr. Leffall, who is the Charles R. Drew Professor of Surgery at Howard University College of Medicine and the Chairman of the President’s Cancer Panel. “When it comes to the treatment of cancer, science has come a long way. But since we are still fighting the disease every day, foundations like LBCF are so important to help patients with everyday necessities. I’m proud and humbled to have spoken on their behalf, and I’m excited about the numerous patients that will be helped financially because of the event.”

Dr. Leffall spoke to a number of issues including the accomplishments on the war on cancer and challenges for the future. Many who attended the event, from fellow oncologists to cancer survivors, considered his dynamic speech inspiring.

“To say I was fortunate to attend this event is an understatement,” said Jody Schoger, cancer survivor, health blogger and LBCF volunteer. “Rare are the opportunities we have to listen and watch as someone who has helped shape and advance cancer prevention, treatment and care stands less than ten feet away. Dr. Leffall talked about one advance after another in cancer treatment, from surgical advances to progress in targeted chemotherapy, and the incredible promise yet to be realized in immunotherapy and nanotechnology. The event was inspiring and filled me with hope for the future of cancer care.”

Because of the generosity of US Oncology, 100 percent of the proceeds raised will benefit the Foundation’s Patient Assistance Program, which helps patients pay for everyday living expenses so they can better afford treatment.

“It’s events like these that can both educate people about the advancements and challenges of cancer care as well as raise awareness and funding for patients in need,” said Lloyd Everson, MD, Vice Chairman, US Oncology. “I’m already looking forward to next year’s event.”

Nearly 100 people attended the event and another 60 donors joined Dr. Everson and his wife Jaque, who chaired the planning committee, for an underwriter dinner at their home.

“We were so excited about the turnout,” said Natalie O’Roark, interim director, Life Beyond Cancer Foundation. “It’s inspiring to see so many people supporting the Foundation and caring about cancer patients in need. It makes us with LBCF even more motivated to continue working hard to raise money for those who need it most.”