After her surgery and chemotherapy at The University of Kansas Cancer Center, Shannon Cortez said she and her husband, Edward, now have hope.
Cancer Pathways
Hope and healing in the heartland
The University of Kansas Cancer Center is on track to apply to the National Cancer Institute for designation as an NCI Cancer Center in September 2011. It’s a major step toward the ultimate goal, the university’s top research priority: designation as an NCI Comprehensive Cancer Center, anticipated in 2016.
More steps remain: hiring top researchers and clinicians; constructing research facilities; enhancing research programs; acquiring grants; through it all, a multidisciplinary approach. The goal is well worth the effort.
A recent national study showed that cancer deaths are 25 percent lower at NCI-designated centers. Among other benefits, designation brings access to leading-edge clinical trials that are offered only at NCI-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers.
“Cancer has forced too many Kansans to travel outside our state for the latest advances in clinical trials,” Dr. Roy Jensen, director of The University of Kansas Cancer Center, said. “Through these networks we’ve established, patients can access these treatments close to home. Being able to sleep in your own bed at night can be a huge factor in fighting this disease.”
In the full version of this story, three cancer patients map their individual journeys. All received treatment at The University of Kansas Cancer Center; one has become a cancer researcher. We also chart the meaning of NCI designation as a Comprehensive Cancer Center, along with major events and gifts that mark the university’s own pathway toward designation.
To see it and many other stories, please visit Issue 9 of our magazine, KU Giving.
Join the NCI Journey
Unite with others — contribute to the general fund for NCI designation, which is flexible to meet greatest needs as this effort proceeds or contact
Shawn McDaniel at 913.588.5239.
Visit our Publications page for other issues of KU Giving and other publications.