LUSTGARTEN FOUNDATION FLAGSHIP WALK INSPIRES COMMUNITY AND RAISES CRITICAL DOLLARS FOR PANCREATIC CANCER RESEARCH

24^th Annual Long Island Walk presented by Northwell Health Cancer Institute draws over 2,000 supporters & raises more than $660,000 and counting in support of pancreatic cancer research 

JONES BEACH, N.Y., Oct 07, 2024 – Long Island residents touched by pancreatic cancer gathered for a morning of hope, remembrance, and action at Sunday’s Walk for Pancreatic Cancer Research at Jones Beach State Park, presented by Northwell Health Cancer Institute. The annual Lustgarten Foundation Walk has raised almost $20 million since 2000, and 100% of all Walk donations fund life-saving pancreatic cancer research.   

“We believe community is power,” said Linda Tantawi, Lustgarten CEO. “Pancreatic cancer is a devasting disease; we are dedicated to supporting and elevating survivors, patients, family, friends, researchers, and healthcare providers. We remember those we have lost, honor those in the fight, and walk together to further our mission of transforming pancreatic cancer into a curable disease.”  

Award-winning CBS2 New York reporter Jennifer McLogan emceed the event, bringing inspiration and positive energy to all in attendance. Lustgarten Foundation Chief Scientist and Director of the Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory Cancer, David Tuveson, MD, PhD, delivered opening remarks, emphasizing the power of collaboration. He highlighted the pivotal partnership between the Lustgarten Foundation, Northwell Health Cancer Institute, and Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, which has become a cornerstone of cancer care on Long Island.  

“For five years, Northwell Health Cancer Institute has proudly stood alongside the Lustgarten Foundation in the fight against pancreatic cancer,” said Richard Barakat, MD, physician-in-chief and executive director of the Northwell Health Cancer Institute. “We remain committed to our collaboration with our physician-scientists and the renowned researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory through the Lustgarten Foundation Pancreatic Cancer Research Laboratory. This powerful synergy allows us to bring cutting-edge therapies from clinical trials directly to our patients, offering new hope and transforming the way we treat this disease.”

Dr. Barakat added, “Sponsoring the Lustgarten Foundation’s walks on Long Island and in the New York metropolitan area is incredibly inspiring. It’s an opportunity to join thousands of patients, loved ones, medical professionals, and supporters, all united in our mission to find a cure. Together, we can raise awareness and critical funds to advance research and create more long-term survivors.” 

Pancreatic cancer is the third-leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the U.S. This year, nearly 66,440 Americans will be diagnosed and approximately 3,010 New Yorkers will die from this devastating disease—most blindsided by a late-stage diagnosis with few treatment options.  

But there is hope. The 5-year relative survival rate for pancreatic cancer patients has more than tripled since the Lustgarten Foundation was founded in 1998. The Foundation is accelerating research progress, giving patients the best chance for survival.  

Joining the walk to inspire others was pancreatic cancer survivor Janice Canfield, 58, a nurse practitioner, avid runner, world traveler, and mom of four. In September 2022, Janice’s father mentioned that her face looked yellow during a visit. With no pain or symptoms, Janice later decided to see a doctor at North Shore University Hospital (NSUH), where she was ultimately diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. After a seven-hour Whipple surgery and chemotherapy, she is now cancer-free. Janice said, “The cancer was strong but I am stronger,” adding “my hope is to bring awareness and to raise money for more research to rid the world of this awful disease.” 

“For 26 years, the Lustgarten Foundation has been dedicated to ushering in a new era in pancreatic cancer research to accelerate progress and improve patient survival,” Tantawi added. “Our focus remains unwavering on what matters most: transforming, extending, and saving lives by fueling the boldest and most innovative studies.”  

For those interested in supporting the Long Island Walk, the event registration page as well as individual and team fundraising pages will remain open throughout 2024.