FOUNDATION HISTORY

“Jamie and I are embarking on our Coast-to-Coast Cycle to Combat Childhood Cancer, commencing on Sunday, August 15, starting from Old Greenwich, CT, and culminating in Santa Clara, California at the inauguration of the Julian Fraser Memorial Water Polo Tournament on October 22. During this journey, we will pedal across a staggering 4,560 miles, conquering over 120,000 vertical feet – a feat often likened to ascending from sea level to the summit of Mount Everest. Our path will traverse 17 states, with an average daily distance of 68 miles over the course of 68 days.

Prior to embarking on this remarkable ride, Jamie and I diligently researched the expedition. Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK) kindly connected us with an individual who completed a similar journey several years ago. When our Zoom call began, he was taken aback and humorously remarked, ‘Wow, I wasn’t expecting a couple of seasoned cyclists.’

Our motivation for this endeavor is rooted in the enduring battle against cancer, especially for those who can no longer engage in the fight and as a beacon of hope for those currently in the midst of their own struggles. I think of my son, Julian, who succumbed to osteosarcoma four years ago, and my father, Jack, who lost his battle to lymphoma this past June. I also think of my friends Shan and Markus, who are currently battling this relentless disease. Regrettably, we all have loved ones who have been touched by cancer, and we are all compelled to take action. Team Julian symbolizes unity in the collective fight against cancer.

Our expedition is entirely self-funded, meaning that every dollar we raise will directly benefit Cycle for Survival, supporting the crucial rare cancer research initiatives at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. Astonishingly, more than 50% of all cancer patients are afflicted with rare cancers, which encompass brain, pancreatic, ovarian, stomach cancers, various forms of childhood cancers, and more. Regrettably, research for rare cancers remains significantly underfunded, with a mere 4 cents of every federal dollar allocated to cancer research designated for rare cancer investigations. Memorial Sloan Kettering relies heavily on the funds raised by Cycle for Survival to propel rare cancer research forward.

Rare cancers present formidable challenges in the realm of cancer research, often displaying greater resistance to emerging treatments like immunotherapies compared to more common systemic cancers. Consequently, advancements in rare cancer research hold the potential to revolutionize treatments for a wide spectrum of cancers.

Memorial Sloan Kettering, much like other prominent research institutions, actively shares its research findings with fellow researchers and actively participates in clinical trials conducted by various research hospitals and institutions. Therefore, funds raised for Cycle Survival have a global impact, benefiting cancer research on a broader scale, beyond the confines of Memorial Sloan Kettering.

We warmly extend an invitation for all of you to join Team Julian. As members of Team Julian, we kindly request two simple actions – contribute whatever you can, and assist us in spreading the word. Please follow our journey on Instagram (@teamjf) and Facebook (/TeamJF4Cure).

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Kendra Farn, Noah Finz, Heike Coffee, and Claire Russack for their unwavering support. Additionally, we wish to express our gratitude to all of you who have generously contributed to our cause.”