The V Foundation For Cancer Research

Jim Valvano

The V Foundation began with the dream of Jim Valvano, the beloved NCAA-championship-winning NC State basketball coach and award-winning broadcaster, as he himself battled cancer. Valvano recruited friends and family to lead The V Foundation in his quest to eradicate the disease that ultimately claimed his life. Recognizing a dire need for early developmental, critical-stage grant support, the V Foundation strives to assist the brilliant young researchers that will eventually find cures for cancer.

Proceeds from the V Foundation Charity Home are earmarked for a collaboration between Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Recently, The V Foundation has committed to a four-year, $2 million cancer research grant to a joint research project for a study to individualize treatment for breast cancer between the two prominent cancer facilities.

To learn more about the V Foundation or make a donation please go to www.jimmyv.org

Since its inception in 1993, The V Foundation has raised more than $60 million and awarded cancer research grants in 36 states and the District of Columbia. Researchers have developed their laboratories and taken their science from the labs to the clinics with the help of funds raised by The V Foundation.
The Foundation’s Scientific Review Committee, comprised of some of the top physicians and research scientists from prominent universities and cancer centers nationwide, assures that only the cancer research projects with the most potential are funded. Thus, grant recipients funded by The V Foundation have excellent reputations within the scientific community.

 
"When Michael Dean Chadwick at 1st American Builders approached me, over two years ago, with his idea for raising a million dollars building houses," says V Foundation CEO Nick Valvano, "I thought, this is just a fantastic idea — people helping to fight cancer by doing what they do in their everyday lives, what they do best."

Proceeds from the V Foundation Charity Home are earmarked for a collaboration between Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center. Recently, The V Foundation has committed to a four-year, $2 million cancer research grant to a joint research project for a study to individualize treatment for breast cancer between the two prominent cancer facilities.

 
"We are so very grateful to 1st American, Wakefield Development, Stock Building Supply and everyone who has made this grant a reality," says Valvano. "This entire project has been so good for the Foundation and for the building industry and the people who work in it. Just to see what incredible things they could accomplish working together."

Statement at The  Jimmy V Charity Home Event  October 13, 2006 If someone had told me 20 years ago that I would be given the opportunity to help my community and make a difference, I would have definitely believed it would be through basketball. Never would I have imagined it would be an illness that would give me the privilege to create a change. Even though I am a cancer survivor, I am nowhere near the end of the battle, we are nowhere near the end of the battle. But, because of people like Michael Dean Chadwick of 1st American and all the dedicated people at The V Foundation, we get closer everyday. Since I was first diagnosed with cancer, I have watched the research efforts increase, improve and provide hope. This would not be possible without commitment from organizations and dedication from people like you. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Michael Dean Chadwick, 1st American Builders, Wakefield Development, Stock Building Supply and all the many other contributors for the 10-year $1 million dollar pledge to The V Foundation for Cancer Research. Also, thank you to the Duke Comprehensive Cancer Center and UNC Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center for their collaboration on breast cancer research. Acknowledging the effects of cancer is the first step in overcoming it. The disease is, unfortunately, all around us, and can strike anyone at anytime. I, however, view my illness as a revelation, a chance to give, and I know there are people that share the same view. If I cannot use my life to help others, then I am not truly living. As a former honorary chair for a research program at the Lineberger Comprehensive Cancer Center and as a former board member of the V Foundation, I cannot stress enough my appreciation to donors like 1st American and all the partners that are committed to making a difference. Let's take this evening's gala to not conceal cancer, but to celebrate what we can do to fight it. We have the power to create moral support for other victims and families and give them the courage to persevere. So again, I thank you for being here and helping me combat one of life's biggest challenges. Like the teams I have coached, we will accomplish more together; we can be the force that makes a difference, and we will strive to beat this disease. Kay Yow NC State Women's Basketball Coach

Paul Kerr is a freelance writer