Serving as the heartbeat of The V Foundation for Cancer Research, formed by ESPN and Jim Valvano in 1993, his words throughout the ESPY speech inspire millions to get involved. After being diagnosed with cancer at the young age of 46, Jim dreamed of finding cures for cancer. Passionate and committed, he wanted to see his fight through to victory. As a former coach, he began to recruit his team of family and friends to lead The Foundation in his quest to eradicate the disease.
As a cancer patient, Jim recognized the need to invest in young physicians and scientists to help establish their careers—after all; someone had invested in him early in his career! Addressing the need to help early-career cancer investigators develop into promising research talents was the first goal of The Foundation. The V Scholar concept was developed in 1994 to address that need. Today, young physicians and scientists at the nation’s leading cancer centers eagerly seek this highly respected award.
As with any patient, Jim discovered first-hand how slowly science progresses from the lab to the patient’s bedside. He wanted faster solutions, more progress and better answers. In 2001, eight years after his death, The V Foundation announced its Translational Research Grants, designed to accelerate laboratory findings with the goal of benefiting patients more quickly.
Although Jim lost his battle with cancer less than two months after delivering the ESPY speech, his dream to find cures lives on through research grants bestowed in his name. The V Foundation has awarded more than $130 million to more than 120 facilities nationwide and proudly awards 100% of direct cash donations to cancer research and related programs. Due to generous donors, The Foundation has an endowment that covers administrative expenses.
Mountain Oak Properties is a proud supporter of The V Foundation for Cancer Research. The 2015 Jimmy V. Perseverance award was given to Leah Still, Cincinnati Bengals defensive tackle Devon Still’s daughter, who is overcoming cancer at the age of five. Throughout the battle of cancer, she has inspired many people around the globe fighting this illness.
For more on The V Foundation for Cancer Research and/or to donate, click here.