Please consider making a donation to the Dr. Vivian Strong Gastric Cancer Research Fund at Memorial Sloan Kettering in honor of my birthday this year.

How It All Began

In June 2023, just two months before my 46th birthday, my life turned upside down. My doctor called to share the results of a recent endoscopy, and I heard the words no one ever wants to hear: "you have cancer."

Seeking Intervention and Treatment

The next few weeks flew by in a blur of medical appointments. I was scared and overwhelmed. But then I met with Dr. Vivian Strong at Memorial Sloan Kettering and finally had a clear plan of action. 

In July, Dr. Strong removed my tumor and part of my stomach. When metastatic carcinoma was detected in some of my lymph nodes, we knew that chemotherapy would be the next step.

I will start chemo a few days after my birthday at the end of August, and we are hopeful that it will knock this thing out of my system for good.

Why Fund This Research

As I quickly learned, stomach cancer is not as well researched as other cancers. But when I dove head-first into Google Scholar and PubMed to find out all that I could about my specific cancer — diffuse gastric adenocarcinmona — I was so happy to see Dr. Strong's name listed as an author on several of the studies I found.

I had no idea when I chose to pursue care at MSK that I would get to work with one of the leading researchers in this important area of study. And I am committed to doing all that I can to help her team continue to provide the most advanced care to people diagnosed with gastric cancer.

Your Gift

Your gift will go directly to Dr. Strong and her team at MSK as they work to outsmart stomach cancer. Every dollar brings more hope. Thank you in advance for your support!

In appreciation,

Kiersten (aka Roller Doc)