Dear Scripps Research Friend,

People often ask me where our scientists get their inspiration, because studying biological molecules may not seem very motivating to some. But then I remind them that these molecules make up people.

All of us at Scripps Research are here for mothers and fathers... for siblings, cousins and friends. And perhaps the best way to show you the source of our inspiration is to share a letter I recently received about Dr. Peter Kuhn, whose work was featured in the last issue of At the Forefront.

Just as this brave breast cancer survivor inspires our scientists, I hope she will inspire you to support Scripps Research. Please make a gift today.

Sincerely,

Wendy Scott Keeney
Vice President, Office of Philanthropy

PS: It's never too early to start thinking about your 2008 taxes. All donations to Scripps Research are fully tax-deductible.

Dear Wendy,

Honestly, I was not at all enthusiastic about meeting with Dr. Peter Kuhn and his associates to learn more about their Circulating Tumor Cell Study, a study I had volunteered for through my oncologist.

It's been a difficult journey for me since being diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer almost 2 years ago -- especially after being in remission for 17 years. Even though I am willing to do whatever it takes to be around to see my future grandchildren, some days I just can't deal with cancer. Like an ostrich in the sand, I hide my head from the world.

It was in this mindset -- with my heels dug in -- that we entered what I thought would be a cold, sterile science lab. However my anxiety was completely alleviated by the warm greeting we received from Peter and his associates.

Just looking around the lab had me intrigued! My ostrich persona pulled out of the sand as I listened with fascination as Peter explained the different stages of the study... and the potential life-saving implications of his research. At one point, I remember saying to Peter,

"I realize that my donated vials of blood must remain anonymous; but, you'll know mine. My cells will be covered with happy faces just knowing the miracles that you make happen!"

I can't be more honest when I say my feet did not touch the ground as we left the lab. My heart was leaping for JOY! For once, I felt like there was hope!

I couldn't wait to tell my husband, my family and friends about Peter's exciting research! They were thrilled to hear about my experiences at the Kuhn Lab at The Scripps Research Institute... and it was then that we decided to make a gift to support his work.

What a blessing that day turned out to be! I will be forever grateful to Peter and his dedicated team for making such a difference in so many people's lives... including mine!

Most sincerely,

Sandra Borden Thielicke

Expires

More ...

http://www.kintera.org/htmlcontent.asp?cid=80445&msource=0804eadonor&tr=y&auid=3577618

Kuhn Lab at The Scripps Research Institute.

KSNewsAndViews: Bringing Hope to Survivors

Title

Body

Dear Scripps Research Friend,

Expires

More ...

Keyword

Date

Authors