End of Year Message

Dear Friends of Western States Cancer Research NCORP,

David and Goliath. Most of us know the story: two mighty forces at war, one fearsome giant of an enemy (Goliath) and one courageous scrap of a boy (David). David, armed with just a sling shot, was an unlikely candidate to step forward and attempt the felling of such a behemoth adversary. Even more unlikely was his ultimate victory over Goliath.

There are many aspects to the David and Goliath story that are appealing, but one aspect that resonates for us at Western States Cancer Research NCORP (WSCR-NCORP) is the idea of being “small and mighty” and taking on an enemy of tremendous proportions. Cancer continues to be an enemy that can shape-shift, strike at will and show no discretion in who it claims as a victim. Fortunately, we have more than a sling shot at our disposal and a dedicated army marching beside us. 

Since 1983 when WSCR-NCORP became a National Cancer Institute (NCI) Affiliate and Colorado’s first and only regional and community research organization, our work has contributed to numerous discoveries and breakthroughs in cancer research. Those victories have resulted in a level of rapid progress in cancer control that was once inconceivable. Cancers that were previously a certain death sentence upon diagnosis are now treatable and even survivable. 

WSCR-NCORP is a small organization (we employ only 16 people in our main office) with limited funding (55% of our funding comes from the NCI) and yet we are made mighty by our courageous patients, committed physicians, and through partnerships we have with hospitals, community clinics and physicians. Located throughout the states of Colorado, Alaska and Washington, those partnerships ensure that patients have access in their local communities to cutting edge cancer treatment, symptom control and prevention. This year, WSCR-NCORP has more than 90 trials open, with nearly 300 individuals taking part and another 1,500 followed for their health status post-treatment. 

While the battle is not over, the giant is weakening.  We invite you to join forces with us so that we can eliminate this enemy once and for all. Please join our other donors by making a gift on our website at www.westernstatesncorp.org or by phone at 303-777-2663.

Wishing you and yours a happy and safe Holiday Season.