 Michael A. friedman, M.D. President and CEO |
In this issue of HopeConection, you will see powerful illustrations of what makes City of Hope distinctive, even unique, among hospitals and cancer research centers.
On the one hand, we report on dramatic new research led by Dr. Defu Zeng that may transform treatment for patients with type 1 diabetes.
At the same time, another article emphasizes the vital importance of caring for a patient’s spiritual needs, and providing a supportive, caring and respectful environment for people facing deadly diseases.
Some people might consider those stories the opposite ends of a spectrum: “hard” science versus “soft” care.
But not us. For everyone at City of Hope, the hard science and the compassionate care are equally real, equally relevant and equally important facets of the fight for life that takes place every day.
This fact is clear when you visit our Duarte campus and see how the patientcare
clinics and the research facilities are located side-by-side. As one of only a handful of freestanding academic cancer centers, City of Hope has a unique ability to quicken the journey from new idea to new treatment, and put science to work saving lives.
For most patients and families who come to City of Hope, the doctors and nurses they see every day are the face of this organization.
But in reality, each precious man, woman and child who comes to us is being cared for by a team that includes not only caregivers, but also researchers, technicians, administrators, counselors, educators and staff members with dozens, if not hundreds, of specialties. And there is one more vital member of that hard-working, compassionate team: YOU.
There may be many reasons you choose to support City of Hope. Perhaps a relative or friend of yours was treated here. Maybe you believe in supporting innovative and dynamic research. Or you want to make sure people with cancer receive the best
possible patient care.
I am sure that deep down, you have a blend of many different reasons, both “hard”
and “soft.” That is why you and City of Hope make such a powerful team, and why I want to express my deep appreciation for your generous support.
Thank you.
