Could you share the history and mission of Debbie’s Dream Foundation? What inspired its creation?

A: Debbie’s Dream Foundation: Curing Stomach Cancer (DDF) was founded in 2009 by Debbie Zelman, a passionate advocate and stomach cancer survivor. Debbie’s vision was to improve outcomes for stomach cancer patients worldwide. Since its inception, DDF has remained steadfast in its mission to raise awareness, advance research, and provide critical education and support to patients, caregivers, and families navigating this devastating disease. Over the years, we’ve become a global leader in the fight against stomach cancer, pioneering advocacy and research efforts.

Why is stomach cancer such a critical global health issue, and how does DDF address these challenges?

A: Stomach cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers worldwide, primarily due to limited early detection and treatment options. Recognizing this urgent need for progress, DDF has taken a multifaceted approach to combat the disease. Through advocacy, groundbreaking research funding, and international collaborations, we work to raise awareness and drive innovation in prevention, detection, and treatment.

Advocacy is central to DDF’s mission. Can you elaborate on DDF’s advocacy efforts and their impact?

A: Advocacy truly lies at the heart of DDF’s mission. In 2013, we launched the first Capitol Hill Stomach Cancer Advocacy Day, making us the first group to bring stomach cancer to the forefront of legislative discussions in Washington, DC. Since then, thousands of advocates have joined us to meet with lawmakers, resulting in substantial increases in federal research funding through the Department of Defense’s Peer-Reviewed Cancer Research Program (PRCRP).

This February 23–25, 2025, we’ll host our 13th Annual Capitol Hill Stomach Cancer Advocacy Day. This year’s event will highlight a significant milestone: securing language in the Senate FY2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to include H. pylori testing for Armed Forces members. This marks a crucial step in addressing a leading cause of stomach cancer and improving prevention efforts.

What are some of DDF’s major contributions to stomach cancer research?

A: DDF has funded over $2.25 million in research grants to date, underscoring our commitment to innovation. In 2024, we announced two significant research investments:

• A $250,000 grant to Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH). Their work focuses on overcoming treatment resistance in patients with malignant ascites, a challenging complication of advanced gastric cancer.
• A $551,880 fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center to support early-career researchers dedicated to improving outcomes for gastric and esophageal cancers.

These initiatives ensure that researchers have the resources they need to uncover new treatments and solutions, accelerating progress in the fight against stomach cancer.

DDF has a strong international presence. Can you discuss your global initiatives?

A: Stomach cancer is a worldwide health crisis, and DDF has embraced a global mission to address this issue. In 2024, we partnered with KIBOUNOKAI, a Japanese stomach cancer organization, to enhance education and support services for Asian communities. Additionally, we expanded our programming with the International Gastric Cancer Educational Symposium in South America and collaborated with organizations like the International Gastric Cancer Congress (IGCC). These initiatives unite researchers, medical experts, and advocates from across the globe to tackle stomach cancer’s unique challenges.

How does DDF engage the public and raise awareness about stomach cancer?

A: Each November, during Gastric Cancer Awareness Month, we amplify our mission through campaigns, educational events, and our signature Illuminations Ceremony & Celebration Dinner. These efforts honor key contributors to the field and celebrate advancements in stomach cancer research and care. Locally and globally, DDF demonstrates that meaningful progress requires a united effort to raise awareness and drive critical research.

What do you envision for DDF’s future and the fight against stomach cancer?

A: As stomach cancer continues to affect millions of lives globally, we remain steadfast in our commitment to improving outcomes, raising awareness, and driving research. By fostering collaboration, advancing innovation, and engaging advocates worldwide, DDF will continue to lead the charge in finding solutions for this devastating disease. Together, we can make a lasting impact.