It was during a routine physical examination that my doctor first suspected something was wrong. A follow-up PSA test and biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of prostate cancer. My treatment by J. Brantley Thrasher, MD, KU professor and William L. Valk Chair of Urology at KU, achieved an excellent result – I am now cancer free. Thankfully, I was diagnosed early in the progression of the disease and had access to great doctors. Still, hearing the word ”cancer” from my doctor forever transformed my outlook on life. Too many Kansans and their families have heard that word and been confronted with a frightening new reality.

We know the results of medical research can enhance human health, and we know that breakthroughs, such as those discovered at the University of Kansas, can significantly reduce suffering and death from cancer. Progress is being made, and KU is producing results by building on our considerable expertise in cancer research and care. But our job is not done until the war on cancer has been won.

The University of Kansas is dedicated to transforming the lives of those we serve by creating a world-class cancer center. In fact, it is our University’s highest priority. We bring many assets to this fight. Our School of Pharmacy is a powerhouse of innovation in the development of new drugs and therapies, researchers at our Medical Center are on the leading edge in the quest for new treatments and cures, and the clinical trials conducted on our Wichita and Kansas City campuses further augment our capabilities.

Building a world-class cancer center will require us to forge new alliances and strengthen existing partnerships, goals to which we are committed. While KU’s unique strengths position us to build a National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center here in the Heartland, we know that its success will depend on the commitment and investment of many advocates, donors, and partnering institutions. Our ability to achieve NCI designation is dependent, in part, on the ability of our state and region to come together around a shared vision and our willingness to collectively invest in that vision. I commend Governor Kathleen Sebelius for her leadership in requesting $5 million annually in state funding to support development of our cancer center and the many legislators from throughout our state whose support made the Governor’s proposal a reality. This investment has accelerated the momentum behind this initiative.

For more than a century Kansans have looked to the researchers and clinicians at the KU Medical Center as leaders in the quest for new cures and treatments. That legacy lives on in KU’s current quest to unravel the mysteries of cancer.

The University of Kansas has a remarkable record of achievement in the life sciences, but I remain convinced that our greatest discoveries are yet to come. I hope you will join us as together we strive to end suffering and death from cancer. +