Welcome to the first Monday Motivation for 2015! One of the most motivating things for me on
this particular Monday is knowing that one year ago, I couldn't even run a mile
without stopping. My what a difference a
year can make though, of course, it is only by looking at the entire year that
I can see just how much I have grown over that time (or, you know, shrunk).
And so it is with the research being done through the BarrProgram, funded by your generous gifts to the Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge. Today's discoveries are leading to tomorrow's
cures and treatments, all because of you and your support. So thank you!
Today we take a look at a current Barr program project which
has led to the discovery of the underlying genes responsible for the crippling
neuropathic pain experienced by more than 30% of all cancer patients, leading
to new approaches for the development of drugs that treat pain. Managing the
pain that some people with cancer experience as a result of their disease and
from the side effects of treatments is an area in which little progress has
been made. With Barr Program funding, Quifu Ma, PhD, revolutionized the
understanding of this problem by identifying genes expressed in neurons that
are critical for pain perception. Eventually, this will enable drug companies
to develop novel therapeutic targets for pain treatment.
This project highlights what I love most about the
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute (DFCI) and what they stand for. Not only are they
pursuing research and treatments that lead to higher survival rates and push us
closer and closer to the ultimate finish line of a world without cancer, but
along the way they are interested in treating every aspect of this awful
disease. Whether that be finding new ways to manage pain caused by life saving
treatments or providing resources to families on how to navigate the challenges
of cancer care. It is truly incredible - and incredibly motivating - to see the
very real and tangible ways in which DFCI cares for their patients.
And THAT is what will keep me moving forward one step and
one dollar at a time until I reach my goals this year. What are you going after in 2015?
T-Minus 104 Days!
