Christine’s Story

We are raising funds in memory of Christine M. Cohen to support the Young Colorectal Cancer Research program at MSK.

Just 26 when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 colon cancer, Christine worked throughout her three-year battle with this disease to raise money for research that would benefit others. Together with her sister, cousins and friends, she organized teams that competed in two Fred’s Team races, and the Cycle for Survival in New York last March, where Christine spoke to the riders and their families about her experiences and her hopes for future breakthroughs in cancer research.

The Podcast

One week before she died, Christine taped a podcast with her oncologist, Dr. Diane Reidy-Lagunes, for the MSK Cancer Straight Talk series. The podcast was titled Facing the End of Life: A Conversation Between a Patient and her Doctor. Christine talked openly about how she and Dr. Reidy made this difficult decision together, the challenges of living with this disease and its treatment, and what Christine wished for her family and friends. We encourage you to view the podcast and see the determination and heart of this remarkable woman.

The Team at MSK

An incredible team of doctors, led by Dr. Reidy, fought for and with Christine throughout her treatment and care, bolstered by amazing nurses, support staff, and others including the chaplain who fortified, comforted, and encouraged her. Your gift will enable innovative research that can give these caregivers even better tools to diagnose and treat their patients and prevent colon cancer from striking more young people in the future.

Her Legacy

True to her upbeat outlook and unselfish spirit, Christine wanted her struggle to have meaning, and offer hope and help to others. She never wavered in her determination to do whatever she could to help even one person who found themselves in her shoes. We want your help to keep that spirit going.