|
On Friday, June 8, members of the Board of Directors of the Foundation enjoyed an informative and delightful visit with Dr. Rodney Rocconi and his team of researchers and clinicians at the University of South Alabama's Mitchell Cancer Institute in Mobile, Alabama.
The day consisted of an official presentation of a $50,000 check to be used for research and development of an early detection test for ovarian cancer. Following the presentation, Foundation representatives were given an informative tour of the facility visiting the research lab, infusion center, treatment and reception areas of the Mitchell Cancer Institute. During the visit, various members of the team provided an explanation of their role in advancing the efforts toward the development of a unique take-home test. Harvesting of samples to be tested is already taking place using the unique collection containers in doctor's offices; however, the ultimate goal is to facilitate the collection of the appropriate samples by women at home. The funds provided by the Foundation are already in use and working to test the validity of "home originated collection." Thus far, funding for this team's research has been limited to MCI's resources. This grant award represents the first ovarian cancer foundation funding received and was clearly much appreciated.
Dr. Rodney Rocconi spent the majority of his medical career in the Birmingham area. He joined MCI as a physician-scientist in the Gynecologic Oncology Service in 2007. He specials in the management of cancers of the ovary, uterus, cervix and lower genital tract. As Deputy Associate Director for Clinical Research, Dr. Rocconi provides leadership and medical expertise to the clinical trials department, reviews and designs clinical research protocols, evaluates safety and efficacy data, analyzes and summaries data for presentation to regulatory agencies, and provides strategic guidance on non-regulatory clinical trial plans. He is the recipient of the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation Ovarian Cancer Research Award and the Gynecologic Oncology Young Investigator Research Award. Dr. Rocconi also serves as a Scientific Expert Reviewer for the Department of Defense Ovarian Cancer Research Program.
Dr. Rocconi expressed his gratitude for our contribution to his efforts and for our interest in the eradication of this disease:
"It is truly spectacular what you all have accomplished in such a short time and I feel that the Foundation's future is bright. Many thanks for your faith in our project and the privilege of doing this work in Laura's memory. I promise we'll work hard in this endeavor for the many women and families who suffer from this awful disease."
Our visiting Board members came away with a new passion for our mission in awareness and early detection. We look forward to following Dr. Rocconi's work and will be providing updates during the coming months.
|
