#United States #Los Angeles #Holiday Giving #Stand Up To Cancer #cancer survivor

Inspiring Hope This Holiday Season

As the holiday season unfolds, the hustle and bustle of shopping, festive gatherings, and classic holiday films come to the forefront. However, for numerous families grappling with cancer diagnoses, this time of year often feels like a bittersweet reminder of challenges faced. Stand Up To Cancer (SU2C) is championing a cause to alter this narrative, providing hope and support through groundbreaking research.

In the heart of December, it’s anticipated that about 167,000 new cases of cancer will be diagnosed in the United States alone. Sadly, nearly 51,000 individuals will lose their lives to this relentless disease. Yet, amidst these concerning statistics, there exists a beacon of hope: the survival of over 18 million people who are thriving, thanks to advancements in cancer treatment made possible through tireless research efforts.

One poignant story that encapsulates the holiday spirit of gratitude and hope is that of Kelly Spill, a 33-year-old cancer survivor from Bradley Beach, New Jersey. Diagnosed with rectal cancer during her first pregnancy, Kelly turned to SU2C-sponsored clinical trials. Her experience with immunotherapy led to a miraculous outcome, allowing her cancerous tumor to disappear entirely after her ninth treatment. As a result, she was able to avoid the arduous journey typically associated with chemotherapy, radiation, and surgery. Now, she proudly shares the joy of motherhood with her healthy children and acknowledges how these scientific breakthroughs have changed her life.

"You're never more aware of how grateful you are for a scientific breakthrough than when you're in need of one yourself," Kelly reflects. Her family’s journey highlights not only the importance of research funding but also the profound impact of community support in creating positive outcomes for families battling cancer.

The holidays, a season traditionally focused on giving and togetherness, carry an even deeper significance for cancer survivors like Kelly. This year, as she celebrates with her loved ones, she expresses her commitment to giving back. Her family plans to donate to Stand Up To Cancer in honor of their daughter Mya, emphasizing the invaluable role of cancer research in making her life possible. Kelly hopes to instill similar values in her children, focusing on the joy of generous acts rather than material gifts.

"I've been given a wonderful gift: the gift of survivorship," she shares. Kelly’s story is a call to action, reminding us all of the immense value of contributing to life-saving research programs like SU2C, which continue to pioneer new treatment options for cancer patients.

Dr. Julian Adams, president and CEO of Stand Up To Cancer, remarks, "We are at the forefront of a revolutionary era in science where curing cancer is no longer a distant dream—it's a reality we are beginning to achieve." His statement encapsulates the urgency and excitement surrounding the progress made by dedicated scientists and researchers.

To help in the monumental fight against cancer, people are encouraged to give back this holiday season through several actions:

• - Make a Donation: Contribute in honor of someone’s cancer journey, past or present. Visit StandUpToCancer.org/YearEnd2024 to donate with just a few clicks.
• - Host a Fundraiser: Engage in communal activities like bake sales or sports tournaments to raise funds while enjoying quality time with loved ones.
• - Shop at the SU2C Store: Purchase gifts that support cancer research, helping to spread awareness and love this holiday.

As you participate in seasonal festivities, consider the transformative potential of your generosity. Every contribution can create more hopeful stories like that of Kelly Spill and many others, ensuring that the fight against cancer thrives and that families can continue to gather and celebrate together every holiday season.

For more details about Stand Up To Cancer and how you can help, visit StandUpToCancer.org.

Together, we can give the ultimate gift this season: the gift of time, hope, and life.