Published on: November 2, 2023

Since its inception in Chicago in 1991, Gateway for Cancer Research has been a vital force in accelerating early-phase cancer clinical trials, a crucial yet often underfunded step in the search for new treatments. While these trials are frequently overlooked, Gateway focuses its entire mission on accelerating the development of innovative treatments when patients need them most. The organization is actively supporting 56 trials across the globe, and has raised over $122 million to date, directly impacting the lives of over 30,000 patients and families.

At the helm of Gateway for Cancer Research are Chairman and founder, Mr. Richard J Stephenson, and integrative medicine expert, best-selling author, and Vice-Chair, Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson of Barrington Hills. Their ongoing commitment to patient-centered care ensures that 100% of every dollar raised goes directly to phase I and II trials. This approach gives patients access to cutting-edge research at the earliest and most critical stages of treatment development.

For Greg Friedman, that mission means everything. Diagnosed unexpectedly with colon cancer at just 48, Greg had no symptoms and no risk factors. His care team at Duke University, led by Dr. Nicholas DeVito, enrolled him in a Gateway-funded immunotherapy trial, a more targeted approach than traditional chemotherapy. The treatment gave Greg the chance to reclaim everyday joys. “I’ve learned to prioritize living over simply surviving,” he says.

John DiClemente, a husband, father, and grandfather, shares a similar story of resilience. In 2021, he began experiencing headaches and vision loss, symptoms that ultimately led to a diagnosis of a glioblastoma brain tumor. But after enrolling in a Gateway-supported trial at the University of Michigan, John’s outcome defied the odds. He is now considered a long-term survivor and credits the trial with giving him time with his family.

For Gateway, these aren’t just medical milestones, they’re personal victories. Each trial they fund represents scientific advancement, a renewed chance at life, connection, and dignity. Join Gateway for Cancer Research in bringing hope to patients and families by directly supporting life-changing trials today: www.gatewaycr.org/hope

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