Posts by Rick Pollock
Peggy Newland
12/19/1967-9/22/2021 On September 22, 2021, a cherished daughter, sister, mother, and grandmother, lost a courageous battle with cancer ( a rare bile duct cancer called intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma). Peggy was a loving daughter to Lee Roy and Ulean Heatherly, wonderful mother to Tonya Middleton, Cassandra McAfee, son-in-law Justin Mcafee, Jamie Newland, and Chasity Newland, amazing grandmother…
Read MoreWebinar: Personalizing cancer treatments with the PARIS® Test for cholangiocarcinoma patients
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Title: Personalizing cancer treatments with the PARIS® Test for cholangiocarcinoma patients Recorded: Thurs., Sept. 23, 2021 4:00pm (Eastern) Presented by: SEngine Rare and aggressive cancers, such as Biliary Tract Cancers (BTCs), have a significant unmet need that current approved therapeutics do not meet. Conventional clinical trial-based approaches have been ineffective…
Read MorePatient Support Group
Each week we present the latest information and updates relevant to the CCF community. Support Groups will be held the 1st (Patient) and 3rd (Caregiver) week of every month and Educational Webinars will be held on the 2nd and 4th week of each month. Please join us the first Thursday of the month for a…
Read MoreGiving Thanks by Giving Back
Help us meet our goal of 100 new sign-ups by 2021! Join the CCF registry through Ciitizen to advance research for cholangiocarcinoma, and Ciitizen will donate $25 to CCF. During the “Giving Thanks by Giving Back” Campaign, CCF and Ciitizen are partnering up with the goal of helping at least 100 patients collect, summarize and share…
Read MoreWebinar: NuTide 121 Clinical Trial
NuCana will introduce the science behind NUC-1031, the medicine being compared in combination with cisplatin in the NuTide:121 study against the current standard of care in Biliary Tract Cancer, gemcitabine and cisplatin.
Read MoreWebinar: The RELEASE trial and the technology behind
This webinar is intended for patients with inoperable extrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) who consider enrolment into a clinical trial.
Read MoreFB Live: Living with Cholangiocarcinoma – Journey to Diagnosis & Beyond
Facebook Live event, “Living with Cholangiocarcinoma – Journey to Diagnosis & Beyond.” We hope you tune in to hear from those in the #cholangiocarcinoma community!
Read MoreBiomarker reveals how aggressive biliary tract cancer is in patients
As biliary tract cancer (BTC) patients typically survive less than one year on standard-of-care chemotherapy, adapting prognostic biomarkers to guide their management remains challenging.
Read MoreWebinar: Clinical Trial Finder
CCF and Ciitizen launch first of it’s kind Clinical Trial matching powered by a patient’s complete medical history, automatically.
Read MoreWebinar: Modified Immune Cells and a Vaccine After High-Dose External Beam Radiation
The Mayo Clinic presents Modified Immune Cells (Autologous Dendritic Cells) and a Vaccine (Prevnar) After High-Dose External Beam Radiation.
Read MoreWebinar: “Should I get a second opinion?”
The first diagnosis isn’t always correct or complete. According to a study by the Mayo Clinic, 88% of original diagnoses were changed or refined by a second opinion.
Read MoreFive for Friday – 5 ways you can join Annual Conference fun
Each week, we’re going to offer five tips that will help you stay educated, informed and hopeful about all things cholangiocarcinoma.
CCF’s Annual Conference has gone virtual, that means EVERYONE can attend!
In preparation, we’d like to share 5 things to do before the conference.
Read MoreWebinar: Virtual Ciitizen Onboarding Party
Join us for a virtual onboarding event with our partners at Ciitizen to learn how you can use Ciitizen’s platform to take control of your medical data and contribute to important medical research for cholangiocarcinoma.
Read MoreWebinar: Patient Health Data Rights & Privacy
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Do you have questions about your health data privacy and your rights to access your own medical records? Join us for an educational webinar with health privacy and security expert Deven McGraw, who is Ciitizen’s Chief Regulatory Officer. Deven previously directed U.S. health privacy and security as Deputy Director, Health…
Read MoreTwo webinars this week!
Please join us this Thursday, July 9 for two events with our partners at Ciitizen! As part of the CCF Webinar Series, we will start with an educational webinar with Ciitizen’s Chief Regulatory Officer, Deven McGraw, focused on patient health data rights and privacy, and we will follow the webinar with a virtual onboarding event for anyone who…
Read MoreCCF is hosting a Lip Sync Battle!
July is here, and the 2020 Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation’s Virtual Conference is just weeks away. CCF plans on having some fun during the conference! We’re excited to announce our first Lip Sync Battle. The winning song is “Fight Song” by Rachel Platten. Now it’s time for the fun to begin! Start planning your lip sync performances…
Read MoreCCF Webinar Series : July’s Patient Support Group
We’ve loved connecting with you each week and hope you’ll continue to do so. Our Weekly Webinars provide our CCF community with the latest information and updates pertaining to CCA. Our hope is to continue to connect, inspire and educate. Each week we present the latest information and updates relevant to the CCF community. Support Groups will…
Read MoreComplete a 5-minute COVID survey for a chance to win CCF Gear
The COVID 19 pandemic is the most wide-reaching and devastating public health event of our lifetimes. It has reached nearly every corner of the globe. Even those who have not contracted the disease have been affected by it. The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation would like to know how the COVID-19 pandemic has affected your, or your loved…
Read MoreWebinar: Clinical Trials 101
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation is here for you! We’ve loved connecting with you each week and hope you’ll continue to do so. Our Weekly Webinars provide our CCF community with the latest information and updates pertaining to CCA. Our hope is to continue to connect, inspire and educate. Our Clinical Trials…
Read MoreCCF Webinar Series : 6/18 Caregiver Support Group
Please join us this Thursday, June 18 for a Caregiver Only Support Group led by Katie Glenn. This session is not recorded and is intended as a safe open forum. Caregivers only, please
Read More#MapItForward & the Real World Genomics Study Launch!
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel Register Here What is #MapItForward & the Real World Genomics Study Recent medical advances support the need for all cholangiocarcinoma patients to receive biomarker testing as part of their treatment, however the rate at which patients are actually receiving this testing in the real world is unknown. Real-world evidence is…
Read MoreCCF Webinar Series : June’s Patient Support Group
You spoke and we listened! In light of COVID-19 pandemic, the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation created a weekly webinar series to help our community navigate through these difficult times. The response has been overwhelming and we will continue the weekly gatherings as long as there is interest! Based on an abundance of feedback, the weekly sessions will…
Read MoreCCF Webinar Series : Caregiver Support Group
You spoke and we listened! The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation CCF is excited to announce our newest series of webinars. Each week we bring you the latest information and updates relevant to the CCF community. Our hope is to continue to connect, inspire, and educate. These bi-weekly educational webinars feature the newest developments and presentations from experts…
Read MoreCCF Weekly Webinar Series: Dealing with Anxiety, Fear & Depression
You spoke and we listened! The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation CCF is excited to continue our series of webinars. Each week we will bring you the latest information and updates relevant to the CCF community. Our hope is to continue to connect, inspire, and educate. Bi-weekly educational webinars will feature the newest developments and presentations from experts…
Read MoreNew Weekly CCF Webinar Series
You spoke and we listened! The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation CCF is excited to announce our newest series of webinars. Each week we will bring you the latest information and updates relevant to the CCF community. Our hope is to continue to connect, inspire, and educate. Bi-weekly educational webinars will feature the newest developments and presentations from…
Read MoreFive for Friday – Benefits of Volunteering
Each week, we’re going to offer five ways you can fight COVID-19, overcome the fear of the unknown and deal with the uncertainty of this situation.
This week, 5 Benefits from Volunteering.
Read MoreFDA Approves Pemigatinib for Advanced Cholangiocarcinoma
FDA Approves Incyte’s Pemazyre™ (pemigatinib) as First Targeted Treatment for Adults with Previously Treated, Unresectable Locally Advanced or Metastatic Cholangiocarcinoma April 18, 2020 WILMINGTON, Del.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Apr. 17, 2020– Incyte (Nasdaq:INCY) today announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved Pemazyre™ (pemigatinib), a kinase inhibitor indicated for the treatment of adults with previously treated, unresectable locally advanced…
Read MoreFive for Friday – Maintain a Healthy Mind
Each week, we’re going to offer five ways you can fight COVID-19, overcome the fear of the unknown and deal with the uncertainty of this situation.
This week, 5 Ways to Maintain a Healthy Mind.
Read More#stopthespread
Our friends at D2 Creative and Mill Pond Communications answered the #UNOpenBrief to help #STOPTHESPREAD of #COVID19. Their answer: an ILLUMINATION to help reduce face touching in the form of a playful 30-second PSA.
Read MoreCDC Guidelines for Cloth Face Coverings
CDC recommends wearing cloth face coverings in public settings where other social distancing measures are difficult to maintain (e.g., grocery stores and pharmacies), especially in areas of significant community-based transmission.
Read MoreFive for Friday – Fight Misinformation
Each week, we’re going to offer five ways you can fight COVID-19, overcome the fear of the unknown and deal with the uncertainty of this situation.
This week, 5 Ways to Fight Misinformation.
Read MoreLive Webinar: Navigating Your Care in Uncertain Times
During these unprecedented times Dr. Javle and Dr. Kelley will answer your questions to help address the specific care, treatment, and access needs of our community during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Read MoreCoronavirus: What People with Cancer Should Know
Some types of cancer and treatments such as chemotherapy can weaken your immune system and may increase your risk of any infection, including with SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
Read MoreFive for Friday – Do the Five!
Each week, we’re going to offer five ways you can fight COVID-19, overcome the fear of the unknown and deal with the uncertainty of this situation.
This week, DO THE FIVE to help stop the disease.
Read MoreMayo Clinic COVID-19 Q&A Podcast
The information about the COVID-19 pandemic changes rapidly, and it’s hard to stay up to date with the latest information. On this Mayo Clinic Q&A podcast, Dr. Gregory Poland, answers COVID-19 questions.
Read MoreThe One-Two Punch: Cancer And Coronavirus
You have cancer. Your treatment is difficult, laborious, expensive, and stressful- even on even the best of days.
Enter, coronavirus. What now?
Read MoreWhat COVID-19 does to the human body
Home / Blog / What COVID-19 does to the human body Munich design house Kurzgesagt explains in an easy-to-understand video what happens to the human body once it has been infected with COVID-19. They look at how infection occurs, what cells are involved in both enabling and killing off the virus and how the autonomic immune…
Read MoreFebruary 12th is World Cholangiocarcinoma Day!
February 12th, 2020 – Six charities from around the world have joined together to celebrate World Cholangiocarcinoma Day. Cholangiocarcinoma, a highly lethal cancer with poor prognosis, arises from the bile ducts in the liver. It is often diagnosed at advanced stages when treatment is only minimally effective, emphasizing the imminent need for novel therapies. There…
Read MoreCall for Clinical Trials Poster Session Submissions
Invitation to participate in the Navigating Clinical Trials Poster Session at the 2020 Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Annual Conference. We cordially invite you to participate in a poster session on Wednesday, April 1st at 2:15pm geared towards educating patients and caregivers on your clinical trial in cholangiocarcinoma. This session will be specifically for patients and caregivers to…
Read More2020 CCF Annual Conference Speaker Invitation
You are cordially invited to attend a Speaker Reception. Wednesday, April 1, 2020 7:00-8:00 pm (Mountain)Name* First Last Institution* Email* RSVP*Yes, I will attend the Speaker ReceptionNo, I will not attend the Speaker ReceptionComments
Read MoreWorld Cholangiocarcinoma Day Toolbox
World CCA Day (12th February) – Social Media Schedule #WorldCCADay use emojis when appropriate, right-click each picture below and “save as” for a full-size, high resolution version. Tweet Graphic Tweet copy Handles to tag Date & time 1 It’s time again for us to unite around the world to raise awareness of #Cholangiocarcinoma. Learn how…
Read More2020 Annual Conference Patient Scholarship
The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation is pleased to announce its 7th Annual International Conference scheduled for April 1-3, 2020 in Salt Lake City. Because patients living with cholangiocarcinoma have a direct stake in their own medical care and are in a unique position to provide input, CCF has expanded its Annual Conference to include programming that addresses…
Read MoreBachini-Keifer Fund
An unspeakable loss has affected the cholangiocarcinoma world on Friday, January 10, 2020. Melinda Bachini, our beloved patient advocate, tragically lost her son, Skylar Evan Kiefer, during the second decade of his life. In typical Melinda fashion, even in the darkest hours, her focus was to ensure that Skylar’s organs would benefit others. Friends in…
Read MoreTCS New York City Marathon
Cholangiocarcinoma FoundationTeamCCFS.O.S. ProgramIncentive ProgramFundraising MinimumsRacesContact TCS New York City Marathon TCS New York City Marathon Marathon – Sunday, November 6, 2022 New York City, New York How to Participate: Please fill out the 2022 New York City Marathon Contract and submit to Meredith McGuffage, TeamCCF Coordinator. Set up a personal fundraising page. Once the fundraising…
Read More2020 Annual Conference T-shirt Contest
CCF is excited to announce our 2020 Annual Conference t-shirt logo contest. The logo will be printed on a white short-sleeved t-shirt. Contest Rules Submit logo designs to submit@cholangiocarcinoma.org. Acceptable formats include high-resolution .jpg, .ai, .eps and .pdf. Limit design to a maximum of 2 colors. Limit design to no larger than 10 inches square.…
Read More2020 Pacific Northwest Cholangiocarcinoma Regional Symposium
Join us for an afternoon dedicated to the science of cholangiocarcinoma. The symposium will include presentations from area clinicians highlighting their work in cholangiocarcinoma. You will also hear the patient perspective of cholangiocarcinoma. There will be a break with complimentary snacks and beverages. The day will end with a panel discussion and Q&A around the…
Read More#GivingTuesday 2019
“Giving is not just about making a donation. It is about making a difference.” Last year on Giving Tuesday, people came together on Facebook to raise over $125 million to support the causes they care about. Building on this incredible momentum, and to further amplify that generosity, this year on December 3rd, starting at 8:00…
Read MoreTake Control of Your Health Data
By joining our CCF Patient Registry, your un-identified health information will provide important data to researchers to better understand cholangiocarcinoma and help develop new treatment options. To assist you with gathering your health information, CCF has partnered with Ciitizen to help our patients, at no cost to you, collect your health data, and should you choose, share it back with…
Read MoreMike Shane Memorial Fund
The Mike Shane Memorial Fund helps reduce financial barriers for patients who need a second opinion on their initial diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma*. Purview, a global healthcare technology company, created this fund in memory of Mike Shane, a longtime friend and supporter who passed away on April 28, 2019, after a year-long battle with cholangiocarcinoma. Mike…
Read MoreNo One Fights Alone
Written by Stephanie Zinis In May of 2018 our families’ lives were forever changed. A routine doctor visit led to an accidental discovery that my mom, Renee, had cholangiocarcinoma, a rare cancer affecting fewer than 40,000 per year. After my mom’s diagnosis we began researching and preparing for the future ahead. We came across many…
Read MoreBreast cancer survivor speaks out about being your own advocate
In a segment from this NBC’s Today Show, Karen Peterson discusses her experience with breast cancer. She has been an advocate for herself and others since her diagnosis. She talks about her genomic testing, being informed about her treatment options, as well as the importance of advocating for herself.
Read MoreBank of America Chicago Marathon
Cholangiocarcinoma FoundationTeamCCFS.O.S. ProgramIncentive ProgramFundraising MinimumsRacesContact Bank of America Chicago Marathon Marathon – Sunday, October 8, 2023 Chicago, Illinois The fundraising minimum for the 2023 Bank of America Chicago Marathon is $1,250 if you register before November 17. Registration for the 2023 marathon is now closed. Please email meredith.mcguffage@curecca.org if you want to be added to…
Read MoreUniversity of Chicago Regional Symposium
Join us for an afternoon dedicated to the science of cholangiocarcinoma. The symposium will include presentations from the University of Chicago’s hepatobiliary team highlighting their work in cholangiocarcinoma. You will also hear the patient perspective of cholangiocarcinoma. There will be a break with complimentary snacks and beverages. The day will end with a panel discussion…
Read MoreWebinar: CCF & Ciitizen-Take Control of Your Health Data
On August 12, the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation announced a partnership with Ciitizen. This partnership is formed around the belief that you should have full access to your health data. Cholangiocarcinoma patients have immediate access to the Ciitizen platform, which enables you to gather your medical records and leverage this platform to control your health data. When…
Read MoreMichelle’s Hot Peeps Beat CC
Over 150 runners braved the Texas heat in Taylor, TX, on Saturday, Aug. 10th, to support the second annual “Michelle’s Hot Peeps Beat CC” 5K and Fun Run race to support finding a cure for cholangiocarcinoma. The event was planned in memory of Michelle McDonald who last her battle with the disease, at the age…
Read MoreCholangiocarcinoma Foundation Awards $365k in Research Fellowship Grants in Largest Funding Cycle to Date
Since 2015, the Foundation has awarded more than $1.9 million in funding for innovative, high-quality research. SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, USA, August 6, 2019 — The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF), a nonprofit organization funding novel research for bile duct cancer, has awarded the 5th cycle of its Research Fellowship Program. CCF is pleased to support 7 projects for…
Read More2019 Annual Conference Videos
All of the presentations at our 2019 Annual Conference are online and waiting to be viewed! Visit our Conference in Review page for photos, a recap video and videos from many of the presentations, or if you prefer, visit our YouTube Channel, where we have all of the Conference Videos arranged into a playlist.
Read MoreKeynote Presentation from the 2019 CCF Annual Conference
Advancing technologies and the tipping point for Medicine Vivek Wadhwa, Keynote Speaker
Read MoreDaniel King Memorial Fund
Free Webinar: TAS 120 Clinical Trial in Cholangiocarcinoma Updates
This free webinar provided updates on the TAS 120 clinical trial and also served as a question and answer forum for patients and caregivers.
Read MoreThoughts and Memories of Marion Schwartz
Marion and I worked together daily for over 10 years building the foundation and we’ve talked often since her retirement. She worked with many of you over the years to make sure the patient voice was considered in all endeavors and she admired the way you treated “her” patients. She took great pride in her…
Read MoreAvery’s Ice Cream for a Cure
Avery has a huge love for ice cream and all things chocolate. She also wants to help find a cure for cancer, specifically cholangiocarcinoma, in memory of her grandmother. So this sweet 9 year old decided to use her love of ice cream to raise money and awareness for the The Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. Avery‘s Ice Cream for a Cure fundraiser in February generated over $1,377!
Read More2018 Annual Conference Videos
All of the presentations at our 2018 Annual Conference are online and waiting to be viewed! Visit our Conference in Review page for photos, a recap video and videos from many of the presentations. 2018 Annual Conference in Review
Read MorePublix Georgia Half Marathon
I successfully completed the Publix Georgia Half Marathon this morning. With the support of some great friends and family, we were able to raise $5,200 (counting $200 I understand was sent directly to the CCF) for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. I am humbled and honored by all the support I’ve received, and I hope these funds…
Read More6th Annual Jacques Dupont Memorial Benefit
Dear CCF, I set my goal very high this year and unfortunately I did not make it. I am not disappointed though, we did really well. We raised a little over $35,000 (this number includes in- Kind donations as well). This is an increase of $7,000 from last year! I have received a lot of…
Read MoreSara Hinkley
Sara is a Senior Intellectual Property Counsel for an oilfield services company in Houston, Texas. Sara joined the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in 2006, shortly after her close friend, Kelly Lester, was diagnosed with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Initially Sara served as the Foundation’s first patient advocate, and later served roles as Secretary, President, and Trustee. After a 5-year hiatus, Sara rejoined the Foundation in 2017…
Read MoreEvent in memory of Kathy Plouff
Event in memory of Kathy Plouff I am so happy to update you to tell you the Fundraiser we had in memory of my Mom on what would have been her 52nd birthday was a HUGE success,I believe that we raised a little over $2,000! We are so grateful for our generous friends and…
Read MoreThe Strader Strong Triathlon raises $28,000!
Click here to see an interview with Herb Lavery, the Organizer of the Strader Strong Triathlon.
Read MoreKnock Out Cancer Event
Hi! Just getting back to you about our first fundraising event that was held on July 22- Knock Out Cancer. We had a great turnout with 100+ people, raising over $5,000! We created t-shirts and cups for this event that were able to be purchased, along with about 35 donated baskets that we raffled off.…
Read More2nd Annual Fundraiser in Honor of Kelly Gratz
July 2017 was the second annual fundraiser for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in honor of Kelly Gratz. Kelly was diagnosed in February 2016 with stage 4 Cholangiocarcinoma. His children decided to host a fundraiser to rally as much emotional support for him through this battle and also to be able to raise money for the foundation and research. It was…
Read MorePalliative Care Podcast
Palliative Care Podcast Palliative care should be implemented at the beginning of any serious or life-limiting diagnosis. It restores control of decisions to the individual. Palliative care practitioners work with individuals to control symptoms related to the illness, or the treatment. This includes pain, nausea/vomiting, appetite and taste changes, nutrition, etc. With any diagnosis that…
Read MoreCholangiocarcinoma Patients with a Specific Genetic Biomarker Now have a New Treatment Option
FDA grants approval to Merk & Co. for Keytruda (pembrolizumab) “The hope is that advanced genetic information will one day be able to identify which patients are most likely to benefit from a specific treatment.” — Marion Schwartz SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, USA, June 14, 2017 /EINPresswire.com/ — The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has…
Read MoreImmunotherapy
Our friends at Memorial Sloan Kettering have put together an excellent animation explaining Immunotherapy.
Read MoreCCF meets with CASCAP and the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation of Thailand
From our friends at CASCAP … CASCAP and together with the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation of Thailand hosted a meeting with Prof. John Bridgewater University of London, Stacie Lindsey , President, Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation USA, Prof. Milind Javle M.D., Tenure Track, Department of Gastrointestinal (GI) Medical Oncology, Division of Cancer Medicine, The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer…
Read More2017 Annual Conference Videos
Most presentations at our 2017 Annual Conference are online and waiting to be viewed! Visit our Conference in Review page for photos, a recap video and videos from many of the presentations. 2017 Annual Conference in Review
Read MoreAndrea’s Night 2017
Andrea’s Night “On the 50 Yard Line” was held on January 14, 2017 in Evansville, IN, by Dan Fuquay and Andrea Remembered in memory of Andrea Fuquay. This annual event was once again a huge success with a sold-out crowd of 500 attendees! The fundraiser cleared $110,000 for distribution to various charities including the Cholangiocarcinoma…
Read MoreMom goes from ‘crummy cancer’ to NY Fashion Week
Lisa Layton was told she had about a year to live in 2013 Read the whole story here.
Read MoreFive Biopharma Companies Headline Industry Night at Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Annual Conference
ArQule, ASLAN Pharmaceuticals, Delcath Systems, Inc, InnoPharmax and Leap Therapeutics to Present Clinical Trial Concepts to International Research Network Truly, the best GI cancer meeting where the best science, most collaboration and meeting of the minds occurs year after year.” — Renuka Iyer, MD Roswell Park Cancer Institute SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, UNITED STATES, January…
Read MoreSaha Laboratory Opens Doors to Study Highly Lethal Cancer of the Bile Ducts
Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation Sees Great Promise in New Research Lab [SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (November 9, 2016) With the opening of the Saha Laboratory for Liver Cancer Translational Research, a giant step forward has been made in the study of cholangiocarcinoma, a highly lethal malignancy of the liver bile ducts. Supryia Saha, MD PhD, has joined…
Read MoreRobert Catherwood
Robert Catherwood January 12, 1947 – October 17, 2016 Loving husband, father, and papa Robert “Bob” Catherwood, 69, of Somerset, N.J., passed away on Monday, Oct. 17, 2016. Visitation is Wednesday and Thursday from 2 to 5 and 7 to 9 p.m. at Plinton Curry Funeral Home, Somerset, with services Friday at 10:30 a.m. at…
Read MoreFall 2016 Newsletter
FROM OUR PRESIDENT This issue of the newsletter marks an exciting milestone for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation (CCF), as we are celebrating our tenth anniversary. As I think over the last 10 years, I can hardly believe where we started and where we are now. We’ve grown from a small group of concerned volunteers to a…
Read MoreCancer Moonshot
National Cancer MoonShot 2020 New Hope for Rare Cancers Before July of 1969, our nation thought that landing on the moon would be an impossible feat, only imaginable in our wildest dreams. When Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin walked on the moon, the word “impossible” was shattered when Armstrong said, “That’s one small step for…
Read MoreCharlie Chanaratsopon, CEO and Founder of “Charming Charlie” Cares
The abbreviation for cholangiocarcinoma, a rare form of liver cancer is “CC” however, one “CC” patient in Oregon prefers to think of it as “Charming Charlie.” Charming Charlie stores are filled with colorful clothing, beautiful jewelry, amazing accessories, delightful employees and enthusiastic shoppers. — Lisa Layton SALT LAKE CITY, UTAH, UNITED STATES, September 13, 2016…
Read MoreCampaign for the CURE: Meet Kris Jacobs
My name is Kris and my journey began in Feb. 2011 when my back started hurting. The band of pain from my back to my chest was excruciating. I was vomiting from the pain. It eventually lessened a bit. I didn’t want to go to the hospital. On Monday, I went to see my Dr. and was sent for an ultrasound. It was just gallstones. Wrong! After a CT scan we knew…
Read MoreCampaign for the CURE – Meet Sarah and her husband Andy
Sarah Pieh was born in Adrian, Michigan on New Year’s Eve 1976. From a young age Sarah had a distinctive love of reading, traveling, and exploring new things. After graduating Cum Laude from Northwestern University in 1999, Sarah worked in Chicago for McMaster-Carr Industrial Supply before moving to Hawaii in 2001. There she met her…
Read MoreCampaign for the CURE – Patty Corcoran
Hello! My name is Patty Corcoran, and I am 51 years old. In late February 2011, I was diagnosed with intra-hepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Since then, I have received numerous chemotherapy medications, undergone three rounds of radiation, and even had a 15 month break from all treatment because I was doing so well. I have participated in…
Read MoreCampaign for the CURE – Meet Danny van Brenk
Meet Danny van Brenk, age 34 who lives with his wife and two children Floris (5) and Isabelle (2) in Heukelum, a small town in the Netherlands. I was diagnosed February 2014 with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Doctors found tumors in 70% in my liver and I have lung metastases. I was told by the doctors in the Netherlands that there…
Read MoreShaving for Cancer
Shaving for Cancer As most of you know the worlds greatest shave is coming up. But blood cancer is not why I’m shaving mine. In 2007, my father passed away from a cancer most of you probably aren’t familiar with. It’s called Cholangiocarcinoma, which is cancer of the bile duct. Cholangiocarcinoma is known as a…
Read MorePhotos from ASCO 2016
“Collective Wisdom” is the theme for this year’s ASCO’s Annual Meeting in Chicago. Our attending team includes Melinda, Barbara, Jason, Andie, Kathi, Donna, Stacie and Marion. Melinda and Barbara staffed the exhibit while the rest of our team were dispersed throughout the conference halls attending sessions or connecting with the various biopharma industry, researchers, physicians and advocates. In…
Read MoreWebinar: Role of CEACAM6 as a Biomarker in Cholangiocarcinoma
Presenter: Flavio Rocha, MD Title of Presentation: Targeting BAP1 Mutations in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Summary of Presentation: There are no good biomarkers for the early diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma. CEACAM6 is an extracellular protein involved in cell signaling. When overexpressed in gastrointestinal malignancies such as pancreas and colon cancer, it is associated with worse prognosis. Therefore we hypothesized…
Read MoreWebinars: Targeting BAP1 Mutations & Development of a Mouse Model
Presenter: Milind Javle, MD Title of Presentation: Targeting BAP1 Mutations in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Summary of Presentation: The purpose of this study is to identify molecular subgroups of cholangiocarcinoma by estimating the frequency of BAP1 mutations in patients with intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma, examining BAP1 and other genes in cholangiocarcinoma to link with diagnosis and patient outcomes, and…
Read More2016 Annual Conference Videos
Most presentations at our 2016 Annual Conference are online and waiting to be viewed! Visit our Conference in Review page for photos, a recap video and videos from many of the presentations. 2016 Annual Conference in Review
Read MoreThe 4th Annual Silent Auction Benefit Loving Memory of Jacques Dupont and Becki Mignogna
The 4th Annual Silent Auction Benefit Loving Memory of Jacques Dupont and Becki Mignogna, was a HUGE success. The benefit was held Saturday, November 23rd at The Atkinson Resort & Country Club in Atkinson, NH. The event featured DJ Billy Rears of Get Down Tonight Entertainment who got the guests dancing, appetizers, pasta stations, salad,…
Read MoreCCF Grantee Webinar Series II
Determining the Cellular Origins of Cholangiocarcinoma Allyson Merrell, University of Pennsylvania (Powerpoint Slides) A Balancing Act: Dysregulated Differentiation and Proliferation as a Novel Mechanism of Cholangiocarcinoma Formation Chad Walesky, Brigham and Women’s Hospital (Powerpoint Slides)
Read MoreZulu Race for a Cure
Zulu Race for a Cure Jeff (aka “Zulu”…college nickname, long story!) was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) in June 2008 and defied the odds by surviving for nearly 27 months. We knew from the very beginning that his cancer was terminal. With the most inspiring attitude and humor, he fought every single day to be here…
Read MoreCCF Grantee Webinar Series I
Part 1 Implementation of Precision Medicine Approaches in Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma Daniela Sia, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai (Powerpoint Slides) Part 2 Fibroblast Growth Factor Receptor FGFR Family Gene Aberrations in Cholangiocarcinoma Katsuyuki Miyabe, Mayo Clinic (Powerpoint Slides)
Read MoreThe Carnival for the Cure
The Carnival for the Cure was a BIG SUCCESS! The Carnival was hosted at Lenux Stables in Huntersville, NC. This was our first year and we feel a great success. Even with a gloomy weather forecast, it was a perfect afternoon with zero rain. There was great food, music, and…as you can see from the…
Read MoreWill Jurman’s Fundraising Page
Will Jurman’s Fundraising Page Hello. My name is Will Jurman and I am 12 years old. I am in the 7th grade at John Muir Middle School in Burbank, California. Earlier this year, my friend, Christopher Wilke died of Bile Duct Cancer (That is a picture of Christopher to the right). He was one of only…
Read MoreWhat Patients Need to Know About Hilar Cholangiocarcinoma and Liver Transplant
On Tuesday, Aug. 11 at Noon CT, Mayo Clinic hosted an interactive webinar on hilar cholangiocarcinoma (cancer of the bile ducts). Julie Heimbach, MD, Liver Transplant Program Surgical Director, and Sumera Rizvi, MBBS, Gastroenterology and Hematology Fellow, discussed hilar cholangiocarcinoma symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options, including liver transplantation. A live question and answer session followed…
Read MoreRecent Advances in Adjuvant Therapy for Cholangiocarcinoma
Description: Filmed on location in New York during the Great Debates and Updates in GI Malignancies 2015, this webcast is part of a series that provides educational discussions on controversial areas in the management of gastrointestinal malignancies. Join us as nationally-recognized thought leaders take opposing sides on topics of clinical interest, and present updates in…
Read MoreAdvocacy, Public Policy and the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation
Influencing health care in the legislative arena assuring for an effective health care system is of great interest to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and the patient community at large. We recognize that many issues are too big or complex to be easily resolved by a single organization and that it requires the knowledge of organized groups.…
Read MoreAnother Fundraiser Spotlight
A great email we just received from Karen… Our family held a Family Reunion two weeks ago in Richmond, Virginia. During the reunion, we had a Silent Auction to raise money to donate to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation in honor our Mother who passed away from cholangiocarcinoma on 12/10/2011. We raised $1,079.00 amazingly enough! Thank you…
Read MoreResearch Grant Opportunity in Cholangiocarcinoma Young Investigator Award (YIA)
The Conquer Cancer Foundation of ASCO is now accepting applications for the 2016 Young Investigator Award (YIA). The YIA is a one-year, $50,000 grant that provides research funding to promising physicians who are planning an investigative career in clinical oncology. The award is targeted towards physicians in their final years of oncology subspecialty training. For…
Read MoreWebinar: Using “Spacers” for Safer Delivery of High Dose Radiation Therapy
Webinar: Using “Spacers” for Safer Delivery of High Dose Radiation Therapy High dose radiation therapy is effective in the treatment of liver tumors. However, the greatest limitation in the use of radiation is not the liver itself, but rather adjacent organs like the stomach or intestines, which do not tolerate high doses of radiation therapy.…
Read MoreWebinar: The Emerging Role of Radiation for Intrahepatic Cholangiocarcinoma: Higher Doses Lead to Improved Survival
This presentation focused on the non-operative treatment of intrahepatic cholangiocarcinoma. Over the past 5 years, new technology has allowed much higher doses of radiation to be given safely. These doses are capable of ablating the tumor and preventing it from causing liver failure and death, leading to much longer survival and a realistic chance for…
Read MoreWebinar: Photodynamic Therapy, A Ray of Light in Cholangiocarcinoma: The OPUS Trial
“Photodynamic Therapy, A Ray of Light in Cholangiocarcinoma: The OPUS Trial” presented by Dr. David E. Loren, Associate Director of Endoscopy and Co-Director of the Pancreaticobiliary Section at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital. Cholangiocarcinoma is a disease that often leaves patients and their physicians feeling that they have few options for treatment. This presentation discusses an emerging…
Read MoreBill Merriam in the premiere issue of Beating Cancer
Long-distance runner Bill Merriam’s diagnosis of cholangiocarcinoma never slowed him down. Bill is featured in the premiere issue of Beating Cancer, a new online magazine for those who want to “kick cancer in the teeth.” Read this article and view his video message to you. Click here to view our webchat.
Read MoreThe Three Types of Cholangiocarcinoma and How to Treat Them
Sumera H. Rizvi, MBBS, a fellow in the division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, discusses the three types of cholangiocarcinoma (bile duct cancer) and some treatments that are available.
Read MoreVirginia Gill’s Page
Virginia Gill’s Page Jason & I are running the New Orleans Rock and Roll Half Marathon on January 25th 2015 in memory of Jaime Griff. As many of you know we lost Jaime to cholangiocarcinoma in September 2014. Research for treatment of this devestating disease is greatly underfunded. We are running to help promote awareness and…
Read MoreAndrea Remembered
Fundraiser Spotlight: Andrea Remembered On January 10th, AndreaRemembered.org held the fourth annual “Andrea’s Night at the Discovery Lodge”. More than 500 people were in attendance to celebrate her life and raise funds for the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and the Andrea M. Fuquay Memorial Scholarship at the University of Southern Indiana. This year, the “Andrea’s Night at…
Read MoreSurgical Management of Cholangiocarcinoma – State of the Art and Beyond
Title: Surgical Management of Cholangiocarcinoma – State of the Art and Beyond When:Thursday, Nov 13, 2014, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM EST Presented by: Dr. Tomoaki Kato, Chief of the Division of Abdominal Organ Transplantation at New York-Presbyterian Hospital/Columbia University Medical Center Description: This webinar will feature Dr. Tomoaki Kato, a renowned expert in liver and intestinal…
Read MoreUsing Patients’ Own Immune System to Knock-out Cancer: Adoptive Cell Therapy
Click here to download the presentation (.pdf) Topic: Using Patients’ Own Immune System to Knock-out Cancer: Adoptive Cell Therapy Presenters: Steven A. Rosenberg, M.D., Ph.D., National Cancer Institute Eric Tran, Ph.D., National Institutes of Health Surgery Branch, Tumor Immunology Section Melinda Bachini, CCF Patient Advocate and NIH Research Study Participant Overview: Join Dr. Steven A. Rosenberg (National Cancer Institute)…
Read MoreVideo: My Toughest Marathon-A Runner’s Perspective on Cancer
On September 29, CCF held its first web chat with guest speaker Bill Merriam. Bill recently created a new video for the Foundation to share his perspective on cancer. Participants were able to submit questions in advance and join the web chat to hear directly from Bill. Bill is the father of 6 and grandfather…
Read MoreWebinar: Palliative Surgery for Patients with Cholangiocarcinoma
Some people with cholangiocarcinoma are unable to be cured because their tumor is either inoperable or has spread. These patients can develop blockages of the bile ducts or intestines causing jaundice, severe itching, nausea and/or vomiting. Palliative surgery or endoscopic procedures may be able to provide relief of symptoms. We will be discussing the role…
Read MoreFree Webinar- Update on Cholangiocarcinoma
An Important FREE Webinar: “Update on Cholangiocarcinoma: What we have learned from the International Hepatobilliary Neoplasia Biorepository” When: Monday, July 14, 2014 4:00-5:00 PM (EST) Presenter: Dr. Roongruedee Chaiteerakij, Mayo Clinic, MN Purpose: Educate patients, supporters and caregivers to understand how Mayo Clinic is using the information and bio-specimens provided to improve care all for…
Read MoreWebinar: Update on Cholangiocarcinoma – What we have learned from the International Hepatobiliary Neoplasia Biorepository
Topic: “Update on Cholangiocarcinoma: What we have learned from the International Hepatobiliary Neoplasia Biorepository” Presenter: Dr. Roongruedee Chaiteerakij, Mayo Clinic, MN Purpose: Educate patients so they better understand how Mayo Clinic is using the information and bio-specimens they provide to improve care all for cholangiocarcinoma patients. Download the Powerpoint Presentation
Read MoreSupport the 2014 Sonoma Bili Project Experience – August 2nd 2014
For those of you in the Sonoma, CA area, please consider attending “The 2014 Sonoma Bili Project Experience” on August 2nd hosted by The Bili Project Foundation. The event hosted by Cedric the Entertainer includes dinner, live and silent auctions, and celebrity golf foursomes. Proceeds benefit the UCSF Hepatobiliary Tissue Bank. For more information, contact…
Read MoreBEATING The Odds: Valarie Spiser-Albert
Cholangiocarcinoma patient, Valarie Spiser–Albert beat the odds with her positive attitude Three years ago, Valarie Spiser-Albert was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma. She was told she had 6-8 months to live but her with her positive attitude, she beat the odds! Check out her story and video. Thanks for KSAT TV for sharing this inspirational story. http://www.ksat.com/news/cancer-patient-says-she-beat-odds-with-positive-attitude/25478826
Read MoreThe 2014 Journey for Jo 5K Run/Walk & Kids Dash
Who was Jo Bryant? Jo Bryant was a healthy, working teacher and a very involved mother and grandmother when she went to the doctor for back pain. (She taught for 43 years, up until the day she was hospitalized.) After tests and a biopsy, a week later, she was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma. Her health quickly…
Read MoreReflections on Being a Dad: Bill Merriam
Forty years after becoming a father for the first time, six children and thirteen grandchildren later, the question has to be; how has my life been changed through all these years in the role of dad and grandpa? The simple answer…I can’t possibly fathom how different…
Read MoreAndrea’s Night
Another successful fundraising event by AndreaRemembered.org has raised $140,000 in memory Andrea Fuguay for both Cancer Research and Scholarship funding. Andrea, much too young herself, left behind four young children. However, her memory lives on through AndreaRemembered.org. The organization will donate $50,000 to the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation and $90,000 to the Andrea M. Fuquay Memorial Scholarship Fund.…
Read MoreThomas E. Whitten, Jr. Memorial Golf Outing and Cookout
The Thomas E. Whitten Jr. Memorial Golf Outing and Cookout held in the fall of each year (six so far) has helped raise thousands of dollars in memory Thomas Whitten for bile duct cancer research. We appreciate the Whitten family, friends and supporters.
Read MoreLillie Chen
Board Member, Lambertville, New Jersey Lillie Chen is a principal partner at P2P MedCom, a medical education firm located in Lambertville, NJ. Prior to a career in medical education, Lillie worked as an ophthalmic photographer/technician and then later as director of marketing for a national ophthalmic ambulatory surgery management firm, Vision 21. In that position, she…
Read MoreA Day at the Races
A Day at the Races A Day At The Races My Dad, Joe Judge, was diagnosed with Cholangiocarcinoma in September of 2012. After consultations with leading hospitals and oncologists, it soon became apparent that there was no cure for this cancer, and managing the disease would only buy a few more precious months at best.…
Read MoreDawn Duchene Lyon
Vice President, Trumbull, Connecticut Dawn has over 10 years experience in marketing with top agencies. As Senior Account Director for Crossbow Group, she directs marketing strategy, tactics and execution to build customer relationships and deliver measurable results. She holds a B.S. in Advertising from the SI Newhouse School of Communications at Syracuse University and an M.B.A.…
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