Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation
The purpose for the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation is to provide financial support for research, education and counseling programs relating to the treatment and prevention of breast cancer, in partnership with Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.
In 1985, the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation was founded in memory of Lynn Sage, who died of breast cancer at the age of 39. Lynn's ability to endure a six-year struggle with her spirit and dignity intact inspired 17 family members and close friends to establish a foundation to help others battling breast cancer. In the last 16 years, the Foundation has raised more than $14 million, and the original group of 17 has grown to 78 members serving on three boards.
The Partnership
In 1991, the Foundation affiliated with Northwestern Memorial Hospital. The first pledge of $1 million helped establish the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Program. As a national model for patient care research and education, the program provides women and their families with access to the latest advances in the field of breast cancer. The second commitment of $1.2 million established the Lynn Sage Comprehensive Breast Center. The Center, which opened its door to patients in May 1994, affords women access to state-of-the-art clinical, diagnostic, rehabilitation and counseling services at a single site.
In addition, a new screening mammography facility was opened in 1997 to significantly increase the capacity of the breast program. In May 1999, the Comprehensive Breast Center moved to the Galter Pavilion of the new Northwestern Memorial Hospital. This expanded facility occupies nearly 20,000 square feet and is equipped with state-of-the-art equipment. The Lynn Sage Breast Screening Center serves 50,000 women each year for screening mammography and helps to promote the importance of early detection.
In 1998, the Foundation made a $5 million, five-year pledge to support continued development of patient care, education and research initiatives in the breast cancer program. This commitment supports both the clinical breast cancer center at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the breast cancer research program of The Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University.
In 2000, $2.5 million was committed to the Bluhm Breast Cancer Early Detection and Prevention Fund, funded by Mr. Neil Bluhm, which supports detection strategies for patients at high risk for breast cancer, such as: MRI, genetics, hormones and other diagnostic methods.
In 2003, the Foundation made a $2.5 million pledge in support of oncology fellowships and research into areas like: the effect of breast cancer on families, the use of cycholsporine in the treatment of breast cancer and the expansion of the breast cancer database physicians can utilize for research.
In 2007, the Lynn Sage Comprehensive Breast Center relocated to Prentice when the new hospital opened October 20th. The relocation provided an opportunity to efficiently reconfigure the space by integrating all the clinical components of breast health such as digital mammography, ultrasound and MRI facility under one roof. This has allowed the Lynn Sage Comprehensive Breast Center to perform nearly 65,000 exams breast exams annually.
The Future
A deep, mutual commitment has forged the successful relationship between the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation, Northwestern Memorial Hospital and the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University. All are dedicated to bringing more humane care to women by changing the course of breast cancer through state-of-the art technology and outstanding research programs. The exceptional people and programs at the hospital and the university constantly revitalize Foundation members' deep sense of purpose.
Nationally, the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation is at the forefront of the battle against breast cancer and is recognized in Chicago as a leading philanthropic organization. Continuing the momentum is more critical now than ever. Please join the Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation in its fight against breast cancer.
Contact
For more information on the Foundation or to make a donation, call (312) 926-4274.
