Julie began having GI symptoms in November of 2019 at the age of 45.  Being so young, it was 4 weeks before they diagnosed her with Colon Cancer.  The cancer was extremely aggressive and had already spread to her lungs at the time of diagnosis.  Julie and her team at MSKCC fought hard, but unfortunately, she succumbed to the disease and passed away on August 4, 2020.

Young Onset Colorectal Cancer 

While this is rare, there are a growing number of young people who are developing colorectal cancer.  By 2030, cases of colorectal cancer in people under 50 are expected to nearly double and the death rate for people ages 20 to 54 are on the rise.  MSK cares for more than 400 people each year who are younger than 50 with colorectal cancer.  Due to this staggering number, MSK started The Center for Young Onset Colorectal Cancer, the first clinic of its kind in the world dedicated solely to the specific needs of people under 50 who have colorectal cancer.  In addition to surgeons and medical oncologist, the team includes psychiatry, social work, intergrative medicine and nutrition.

Donors Fuel Progress

Money raised will go to this center and research that is being done to understand the cause behind the rise in diagnosis in young adults.  The center's research effort uses sophisticated testing to search for genetic weaknesses in colorectal cnacer cells, which can lead to new treatments.

When you give to MSK, you're making a direct impact: from innovative research that can move newly discovered drugs into clinical trials, to the cancer treatment and care patients receive every day.

Fundraising efforts can lead to important and life-changing breakthroughs in cancer research—making it possible for scientists to overcome the hurdles of funding gaps. Philanthropy provides the tools they need to swiftly pursue promising research initiatives.

Together, we can join the leaders in cancer research by funding a future with better outcomes for people with cancer and their families—not just at MSK, but around the world.

Every dollar brings more hope. Thank you!