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Dear Friend:
We would like to personally thank you for the generosity and commitment that you have shown the Annie Ryan 5K Run/Walk during the past ten years. The partnership that you have extended has allowed us to reach new heights. Together we will continue to make a difference in the lives of these patients and their families suffering from this devastating disease.
It is hard to believe that we will soon embark upon the 11th Annual Annie Ryan 5K Run/Walk and Kids 1 Mile Dash. These events are scheduled to take place on Sunday May 16, 2010 in Elmhurst, Illinois. All proceeds will benefit the Midwest Children’s Brain Tumor Center at Advocate Lutheran General Children’s Hospital. We have presented to date over $500,000 to the Center.
Through your efforts we have helped the Midwest Children’s Brain Tumor Center become the first center in the United States to evaluate the effectiveness of porphoryn dyes to illuminate malignant brain tumor cells during surgery. Until now, clinical studies had been implemented in Germany, Japan and China in adult patients only. Patients ingest an oral preparation called aminoleveulinic acid (ALA) approximately 3 hours prior to surgery. During the operation the surgeon uses a special fluorescent light to illuminate the tumor. A tumor that has absorbed the dye will turn a bright red under the light. This enhances the surgeon's ability to achieve a complete resection of the tumor. ALA did not have FDA approval in the United States for use in brain tumor surgery. In 2006 the Midwest Children’s Brain Tumor Center received FDA approval. The first patient was enrolled in the trial in April, 2008. The first pediatric patient was enrolled in August, 2008. The trial is still currently only available in the United States at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital and Children’s Hospital.
Pediatric brain tumors are the leading cause of childhood cancer related deaths. The Annie Ryan Run is committed to support the programs of the Midwest Children’s Brain Tumor Center. The journey that these families are on is a difficult one. With your continued sponsorship the Center will continue offering the latest technology and vital family support programs.
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