Debbie's Dream Foundation Recognizes Congressman Chris Smith for Extraordinary Efforts to Cure Stomach Cancer

Debbie's Dream Foundation Honors Congressman Chris Smith

The Debbie's Dream Foundation (DDF) has recently concluded its 13th Annual Stomach Cancer Capitol Hill Advocacy Day, where an unprecedented gathering of nearly 200 advocates came together to urge Congress for greater support of stomach cancer research. During this significant event, Congressman Chris Smith from New Jersey was honored with the prestigious title of 2025 Congressional Steward of the Dream to Cure Stomach Cancer, recognizing his continual advocacy and tireless efforts to increase funding for stomach cancer research.

Since 2017, Congressman Smith has been a prominent supporter of keeping stomach cancer eligible for research funding through the Department of Defense's Peer-Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP). His persistent dedication has facilitated an impressive $42.5 million directed towards stomach cancer research since the fiscal year 2015, which has been crucial in advancing our understanding of this severe ailment and in fostering hope among patients and their families.

Andrea Eidelman, the CEO of Debbie's Dream Foundation, expressed her sentiments, stating, "Despite the ongoing challenges in securing medical research funding, we remain unwavering in our mission to prioritize stomach cancer research." She further highlighted Congressman Smith's essential role in ensuring that research funding continues to flow, paving the way for earlier detection, better treatment options, and ultimately, a possible cure for stomach cancer.

The day was marked by DDF's Capitol Hill Reception, which created a platform for lawmakers, scientific authorities, and patient advocates to unite in a commitment against stomach cancer. Congressman Smith was praised for his enduring dedication to making stomach cancer research a federally funded priority.

Throughout the Advocacy Day, advocates participated in 248 discussions with congressional offices, sharing powerful stories to humanize the need for funding support for gastric cancer research through both the PRCRP and National Cancer Institute initiatives. The foundation is hopeful that ongoing bipartisan support will continue to propel these critical research endeavors.

For those interested in joining in the fight against stomach cancer or learning more about Debbie's Dream Foundation's advocacy efforts, additional information can be found at Debbie's Dream Foundation website.

About Debbie's Dream Foundation Curing Stomach Cancer

Founded in 2009 by Debbie Zelman, the Debbie's Dream Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to bringing awareness to gastric cancer, promoting research funding, and offering international education and support to patients and their families. After being diagnosed with stage IV incurable gastric cancer, Debbie became an influential voice for awareness and advocacy, working tirelessly even through her extensive treatment. Sadly, she passed away in December 2017, but her legacy continues through the foundation's comprehensive efforts.

Debbie's Dream Foundation now includes a Scientific and Medical Advisory Board comprised of world-renowned physicians, as well as chapters across the United States and globally, aiming to continue Debbie Zelman's work and make her dream of finding a cure for stomach cancer a reality.

For further details, visit Debbie's Dream Foundation's website.