Celebrating Two Decades of Progress in Gastric and Esophageal Cancer Research

Two Decades of Impact in Cancer Research

This year, the DeGregorio Family Foundation celebrates a significant milestone: 20 years dedicated to advancing research in gastric and esophageal cancer. Founded in 2006 by Lynn DeGregorio, the foundation emerged in response to a personal tragedy—ten family members lost to hereditary gastric cancer. This loss sparked a commitment to create a public foundation dedicated not just to funding research, but also to filling a critical gap in the cancer research landscape.

In the two decades since its inception, the DeGregorio Family Foundation has awarded nearly $10 million in grants. These funds have been allocated to 38 competitive research initiatives led by prominent researchers at renowned institutions, including Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center, and Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine. By providing financial support early in the research process, the foundation effectively catalyzes innovative ideas that often fall outside the scope of larger institutional funding.

At the heart of the foundation’s model is a straightforward but impactful strategy: to invest in high-risk, high-reward research projects that traditional funding sources may overlook. This 'seed funding' empowers scientists to test their groundbreaking hypotheses, ultimately leading to further funding from prestigious bodies like the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Lynn DeGregorio, the foundation’s President and Founder, emphasizes the effectiveness of their approach. “Our funding model is not just about providing money; it's about fostering great scientific work,” she explains. “Our commitment has shifted towards high-impact projects that have the potential to directly benefit patients. In fact, for every dollar we invest, we can see an incredible return—an average of $11 in subsequent research funding. Importantly, all donations received go directly to research initiatives.”

In 2025, the foundation awarded the prestigious Michael F. Price Memorial Grant to researchers spearheading innovative studies at leading cancer centers. One of the grants focuses on a project at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, which aims to advance to clinical trial phase, while another supports a clinical trial at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center involving ten patients suffering from gastroesophageal cancer.

As the DeGregorio Family Foundation enters its third decade, its mission becomes increasingly vital. Advances in gastric and esophageal cancer research don't just mean better outcomes for these specific cancers; they also have the potential to inform research across a wider spectrum of cancer types, as many tumors share similar biological markers or genetic mutations.

The evaluation process for grants issued by the foundation is stringent, utilizing a peer review system akin to that of the NIH and involving a Scientific Advisory Board of world-class experts in oncology and cancer research.

“Two decades back, research into gastric and esophageal cancers was largely ignored,” DeGregorio reflects. “Today, we're witnessing momentum and a growing sense of hope in this area.” The foundation continues to champion those who are often left behind in the race against cancer, ensuring that funds are directed toward meaningful research that has the potential to make a real impact on patient lives.

For more insights into the DeGregorio Family Foundation and its ongoing efforts to advance cancer research, you can visit www.degregorio.org.