BCAN Partners with Ferring and Astellas/Pfizer for Bladder Cancer Walks in 2025

BCAN's Commitment to Bladder Cancer Advocacy

The Bladder Cancer Advocacy Network (BCAN) has taken a significant step forward in its mission to better support bladder cancer patients and their families. On April 15, 2025, BCAN proudly announced its collaborations with Ferring Pharmaceuticals and the Astellas/Pfizer Alliance as National Presenting Sponsors for the upcoming Walks to End Bladder Cancer scheduled throughout 2025. This partnership comes at a crucial time, as more awareness and funding are needed to combat bladder cancer, which is the seventh most frequently diagnosed cancer in the United States.

Transformative Partnerships

Meri-Margaret Deoudes, CEO of BCAN, enthusiastically welcomed these sponsorships, emphasizing their pivotal role in advancing the organization's mission. "We are excited to welcome Ferring Pharmaceuticals and the Astellas/Pfizer Alliance as our National Presenting Sponsors for the 2025 Walks to End Bladder Cancer. These collaborations will propel our ongoing mission to support patients and families impacted by bladder cancer," Deoudes remarked.

The Waks to End Bladder Cancer, which are set to occur in 19 locations nationwide during Bladder Cancer Awareness Month in May, will not only foster community involvement but also aim to increase awareness about the disease and raise essential funds for research and patient support initiatives. These events target the broader community, allowing individuals who may not have been directly affected by bladder cancer to join in the fight against this challenging disease.

Voices from the Sponsors

David Bell, Vice President at Ferring Pharmaceuticals, expressed pride in his company’s involvement as a national sponsor. "Ferring is proud to support the bladder cancer community. Our commitment to bringing hope to patients and ensuring access to our products drives us towards a brighter future," he said, highlighting the importance of corporate involvement in health advocacy.

Such statements echo the sentiments of both partners, reinforcing their dedication not just to medicine, but also to creating a supportive environment for patients and families. The partnership showcases a united front among industry leaders who recognize the pressing need for advancements in bladder cancer research and treatment options.

Profile of the Sponsors

Ferring Pharmaceuticals has long been a leader in reproductive medicine and a pioneer in the fields of gastroenterology and urology. Established in 1950 and headquartered in Switzerland, the company is well-respected for its innovative approaches to discovering and implementing therapies that directly address unmet medical needs.

On the other hand, Astellas is known for its agile commitment to transforming innovative science into therapies that deliver value to patients across several healthcare areas, including oncology and immunology. Their concerted efforts to pioneer new solutions make them an invaluable partner in this initiative.

Pfizer, recognized globally for its innovative biopharmaceutical products, also plays a crucial role in fostering healthcare solutions that improve patients’ lives. With a strong emphasis on ethics and responsibility, Pfizer has dedicated decades to developing new treatments and ensuring widespread access to reliable healthcare.

Call to Action

The 2025 Walks to End Bladder Cancer reflect BCAN's steadfast determination to advocate for those affected by bladder cancer and its commitment to creating a supportive environment. With the support of Ferring Pharmaceuticals and the Astellas/Pfizer Alliance, BCAN aims to expand its reach and reinforce its efforts globally.

Anyone interested in participating in these landmark events or wanting to find out more about bladder cancer awareness should visit the BCAN website for details on local walks. Together, we can make a difference and provide hope for those affected by this disease.