The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a top-rated cancer research charity, is excited to announce the second annual event benefiting the the Robin Roberts Cancer Survivorship Fund raised more than $175,000. The fund was created in honor of Robin Roberts, a member of the V Foundation’s Board of Directors and co-anchor of ABC’s “Good Morning America.” The event was held in celebration of the Robin Roberts Cancer Survivorship Fund at Blue Smoke Flatiron in New York City on December 3, with an intimate group of friends and supporters.
“I am blessed to be one of the 16 million cancer survivors in the United States,” said Roberts. “And how incredible to see that number continue to grow! Research has been amazing, offering earlier diagnoses and better treatment options. I’m excited to raise funds for a newer phase of research – survivorship. As we move beyond our cancer treatments, we are facing new health challenges. Focusing on healthier futures for cancer survivors is vital. I look forward to the progress that will give us our best shot at a brighter tomorrow.”
In honor of Robin Roberts, the V Foundation established the research fund in her name in 2017, to support translational research to improve the quality of life for oncology patients after treatment. The fund provides competitive grants for urgently needed research into the biological basis and prevention of common long-term adverse effects experienced by survivors. Bristol-Myers Squibb has provided $2.5 million to the V Foundation to fund biomedical cancer research and cancer survivorship.
“Robin continues to inspire us, first with the way she tackled her cancer diagnosis, and now, as she navigates the challenges that cancer survivors face,” said John Thiel, a Don’t Ever Give Up Board Member and a co-chair of an Evening with Robin Roberts. “We especially admire her for leading a charge to support the growing number of survivors.”
Roberts has been a longtime friend and supporter of the V Foundation and was a colleague of Jim Valvano’s at ESPN. In 2007, Roberts was diagnosed with breast cancer. Her ensuing battle has been recognized with honors and awards by various organizations throughout the country, including the Dick Vitale Gala in 2016. She inspired so many as she bravely shared her personal battle with the rare blood disorder myelodysplastic syndrome, or MDS, shortly after her breast cancer diagnosis.
The V Foundation has proudly awarded more than $225 million for cutting-edge cancer research. The V Foundation holds a 4-star (highest) rating from Charity Navigator, America’s largest evaluator of charities, and is among the top 4% of all charities evaluated. The V Foundation is a GuideStar platinum-rated charity.
Please visit jimmyv.org/RobinRoberts to contribute to the Robin Roberts Fund for Cancer Survivorship Research.
