Dear DDF Supporter,

Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer’s (DDF) journey against stomach cancer is one of persistence and hope, driven by advocacy and a growing focus on total well-being. These pillars have been central to our work since the Foundation’s inception, and we have made great strides.

We convened for our 11th Annual Stomach Cancer Capitol Hill Advocacy Day in March this year, marking a monumental milestone. More than 140 passionate advocates stood united, amplifying the voices of stomach cancer patients and caregivers. As a result of their passion and dedication, we held 180 meetings with lawmakers, sharing personal stories and advocating for increased federal funding for stomach cancer research. This collective effort has resulted in over $30.7 million allocated to stomach cancer research funding since FY 2015 through the Department of Defense’s Peer-Reviewed Cancer Research Program.

DDF is sensitive to the mental and emotional challenges of a stomach cancer diagnosis. That’s why we’ve expanded our support services, including our ongoing Mind, Body, Spirit Facebook LIVE Series and Monthly Stomach Cancer Support Groups. These groups provide a safe and nurturing space for patients and caregivers to connect and receive targeted support assistance.

Furthermore, recognizing the need for ongoing support for patients and caregivers, we introduced the Inaugural Advocate Patient Advocate Retreat as an extension to our Advocacy Day. The retreat delved into crucial topics like genetics, nutrition, and the overall effects on mental health for stomach cancer patients, delivered by renowned speakers in these areas. Patients and caregivers met other survivors and caregivers experiencing a sense of community, joy, understanding, passion, and support, fueling in them an inspiration for a future without this disease.