ASCLS-NY Helps Fight Pancreatic Cancer
Submitted by Gwenn Schwerdel, ASCLS-NY Charity Chair
Since spring 2024, ASCLS-NY has supported the Lustgarten Foundation for pancreatic cancer research (the “Foundation”). As a constituent society, we have joined together to fight a disease that the American Cancer Society estimates more than 67,000 cases in 2025 in the U.S. alone. (https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/pancreatic-cancer/about/key-statistics.html).
Who Is The Lustgarten Foundation?
The Lustgarten Foundation was formed in 1998 shortly after founder, Marc Lustgarten, Cablevision Vice Chairman, was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. Lack of research at the time served as the driving force behind Mr. Lustgarten’s desire to establish the Foundation before his death in 1999. Today, the Lustgarten Foundation has invested $301 million in 366 research projects significantly impacting the 5-year relative survival rate increase to 13%. The Foundation has awarded 10 new grants in 2025 to researchers at 8 leading institutions in continuation of its dedication to addressing the critical need for progress in pancreatic cancer research. The Foundation’s commitment to advancing lifesaving science toward its mission of transforming pancreatic cancer into a curable disease aligns with ASCLS-NY’s commitment to patient centered healthcare and community wellness.
How Much Money Has ASCLS-NY Raised For The Foundation?
Our members have participated in charity walks throughout the State of New York, recruiting friends, students, coworkers, and family, raising $1,295 to date. Great job!
How Can I Help?
On Sunday, April 19, join Team ASCLS-NY in New York City as we walk for the Lustgarten Foundation. Invite friends, family, and colleagues to walk with you! To register, use the link below and click Join Us. Can’t make it? You can still help by making a donation, click Donate (using the same link) to help us reach our goal of $500. Please note, you need to create a free account before you can register or donate. Go Team ASCLS-NY!
Details
Date: Sunday, April 19, 2026
Where: Rockefeller Park at Battery Park City, 22 River Terrace, New York, NY 10282
Time: 8:30AM Event Village Opens
9:30AM Ceremony Begins
10:00AM Walking Starts
Link to Register/Donate for NYC Walk https://hope.lustgarten.org/fundraisers/gwennschwerdel/newyorkcity?enref=d644ebfc6128c20c663dd602816f1ac6
For more information about how your donations have impacted pancreatic cancer research through the Lustgarten Foundation, see their timeline of accomplishments here: https://lustgarten.org/leadership/your-impact/a-timeline-of-pancreatic-cancer-research-milestones/
