Brain Cancer

Due in part to it's agressive nature, Brain Cancer is one of the least funded types of cancer research.  Doctor's often have a difficult time treating the patient to success, before the tumor grows against an important brain function, effectively changing the diagnosis.  The patient is sometimes dismissed from a protocol, forced to find a new study that pertains to thier new diagnosis.   That is why it is so important to fund the research...so that a cure may be found before a patient's symptoms change!

We have chosen to direct our support to the research of  Dr. Charles Conrad (John's doctor, see beneficiaries) and his associates.  His studies focus on "the treatment of recurrent or progressive anaplastic glioma or glioblastoma multiforme in patients who have failed previous treatments".  We want to help him in the expenses of his efforts, so that he can continue his studies with adequate funding.  We continue to support this cause, so that other patients and families will not have to endure what John endured through his brief fight against this debilitating disease.

The M.D. Anderson website says the following about John's form of cancer:  "Grade IV (glioblastoma multiforme, GBM): An extremely aggressive and lethal form of brain cancer. Unfortunately, it is the most common form of brain tumor in adults, accounting for 67% of all astrocytomas."

Following are links to:

The Dr. Marnie Rose Foundation website for more information on brain cancer funding.  In it, they mention they are the only Houston Foundation funding brain cancer research.  Well, obviously we are as well, but as our money is funneled to Dr. Conrad at M.D. Anderson through the Rose Foundation - they are able to make such a claim.  We appreciate all they do and for providing an avenue to channel our efforts.  Donations to the John C. Merchant Foundation (as a 501c3 non-profit organization) are tax deductible to the full extent provided by law. (donate online now)

M.D. Anderson Cancer Center's 'Brain Cancer' Page is full of great information about the various types of brain cancer, prevention, diagnosis, treatment and support available.

Dr. Charles Conrad's Study Summary is also available on the M.D. Anderson site.  Please click the link to learn more about his Studies.