Women's Cancer Fund
In 2006, nearly 8,000 Maine women, men and children will be diagnosed with cancer. Cancer is the second most common cause of death in the U.S., exceeded only by heart disease. In the U.S., cancer accounts for one of every 4 deaths. The leading cancer diagnosis in Maine is prostate cancer (1460 cases), female breast cancer (1040), lung cancer (1030) and colo-rectal cancer (810). A cancer diagnosis affects many people, not just the patient, but his/her entire family and network of friends, their community and workplace. While many cancers are survivable, the 5-year survival rate has increased to 65%, up from 50% in the 1970's, others are not. Increased survival is the result of early detection and improved treatment. There is much to be hopeful for at the onset of the 21st century with the pace of discovery quickening, and much remains to be done.
The founders of the Maine Cancer Foundation knew firsthand the tragedy that a cancer diagnosis can bring. Turning their sorrow into something good they decided a fund was needed in Maine to propel science-based research while addressing the needs of patients today. They believed that education, both for professionals and the public, was very important. Oncologists and oncology nurses choosing to practice in a remote, rural state such as Maine need access to current education as advances are made. Likewise, people need to know what they can do to minimize their risk and be encouraged to comply with screening recommendations. With a small amount of money but a big drive to make a difference, the founders created the Maine Cancer Research and Education Foundation, the original name of the organization now known as the Maine Cancer Foundation.
The Maine Cancer Foundation was established in 1978 to improve the health and well-being of Maine people by funding cancer research, education and patient support programs. 100 percent of funds raised remain in Maine. A grant-making organization, the Foundation is independent, not affiliated with any state or national organization, and uniquely positioned to respond to unmet needs unique to Maine. As needs arise, the Foundation will seek funding to implement programs and activities that will have an impact.
Women's Cancer Fund
The Women's Cancer Fund exists within the Foundation. It was established in 2001 to insure that resources would always be available for breast and other cancers that affect women. Breast cancer is the most frequently diagnosed cancer in women, and ranks second among cancer deaths in women behind lung cancer. The mission of the Women's Cancer Fund remains the same as the Foundations with grants awarded through competitive, open peer review. There is one common board of directors, staff and grant process. The distinction lies in that donations may be restricted to the Women's Cancer Fund rather than remain in the general fund of the Foundation. Once restricted, funds may only be used for grants and programs for cancers that affect women. At this time, the Women's Cancer Fund is the only alternative to the general Fund; the Foundation does not provide any other disease or gender specific funds.
The Cure Breast Cancer for ME event is the primary source of funding for the Women's Cancer Fund. Begun in 2001 as a luncheon drawing upwards of 500 people, in 2006 the event becomes "An Evening to Cure Breast Cancer in ME." Significant dollars have been raised at this event. Combined with additional breast cancer fundraisers throughout the year, memorial and other gifts, the Women's Cancer Fund has become a significant source of funding in Maine.
2005 Grant Awards supported by the Women's Cancer Fund
Regulation of Breast Cancer Cell Growth by Notch Signaling Pathway
MMC Research Institute, Scarborough
To explore the role Notch receptors play in the regulation of breast cancer
The Role of Twist Dimers in Mammary Tumor Metastasis
MMC Research Institute, Scarborough
To test a model of Twist regulation as a means to control breast cancer progression
A Gene Expression Study for the Hormone-Independent Growth transition of Ovarian Cancer Cells in vivo
Jackson Lab, Bar Harbor
To investigate changes in the gene expression profile of ovarian granulosa tumor cells
Expression of Transposable Elements in Ductal Carcinoma in Situ, a Potential Early Marker
Jackson Lab, Bar Harbor
To investigate early markers of mammary tumorigenesis enabling detection of pre-neoplastic transformations
Post Cancer Lymphedema Treatment Certification for Maine Healthcare Providers
Maine Lymphedema Network, Ellsworth
To provide affordable and accessible 135-hour CDT training for up to 12 therapists in Ellsworth
Lymphedema Training Program
Goodall Hospital, Sanford
To establish a lymphedema treatment clinic in Sanford at Goodall Hospital so that patients can receive the best of care closer to home
Support Service Fund Continuation and Expansion Project
Maine Breast Cancer Coalition serving patients statewide
To provide financial assistance to underserved people throughout Maine for breast health and breast cancer services or items
2004 Grant Awards supported by the Women's Cancer Fund
Molecular Markers of Prognosis and Response to Therapy in Breast Cancer
Maine Center for Cancer Medicine, Scarborough
To understand hereditary breast cancer in greater detail leading to a prospective clinical trial (one of the first of its kind in the country).
Candidate gene within the Chromosome (Chr) X-linked ovarian tumor locus Granulosa cell tumor susceptibility 6 (Gct6)
The Jackson Laboratory, Bar Harbor
To continue to exploration of the in a mouse model of malignant ovarian granulose cell tumorigenesis.
Support Service Fund of the Maine Breast Cancer Coalition
Statewide from offices in Bangor
To ensure that underserved breast cancer patients throughout Maine receive the services and supplies they need
2003 Grant Awards supported by the Women's Cancer Fund
Parent-of-Origin Genetics in a Model of Ovarian Granulosa Cell Tumorigenesis
Jackson Lab, Bar Harbor
To identify the mechanism underlying paternal transmission of susceptibility in a mouse model of malignant ovarian granulose cell tumorigenesis.
Molecular Indicators of Prognosis and Response to Therapy in Breast Cancer
Maine Center for Cancer Medicine, Scarborough
Assay gene expression in 50 donated tissue from breast tumors in the MMC repository to further explore tumor types, and their clinical subtypes.
Support Service Fund
Maine Breast Cancer Coalition, Statewide from offices in Bangor
To provide financial assistance for breast health/breast cancer related services or items to underserved women throughout
Healthy Community Coalition's Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign
Wilton, Franklin County region
To provide patient support for economically disenfranchised, rural women with breast cancer and their families by introducing resources at the new library at Franklin Memorial Hospital, Farmington