At the check presentation, left to right: Dr. Anthony Mazzarelli, Co-CEO of Cooper; Dr. Generosa Grana, director of MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper; Jay Ferraro, founder of the Barbara T Foundation, Lisa Morina, senior vice president and chief philanthropy officer, The Cooper Foundation; Dr. David Warshal, director of the Gynecologic Cancer Center at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper; and Kevin O’Dowd, co-CEO of Cooper.
The Cooper Foundation received a generous $70,000 donation from the Barbara T. Ferraro Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation—marking its third significant gift in support of groundbreaking ovarian cancer research at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper. With two previous donations of $50,000 each, this latest contribution brings the Foundation’s total giving to $170,000, underscoring its deep commitment to leading the charge against one of the most difficult cancers to treat.
“This funding directly supports the next generation of ovarian cancer treatments at MD Anderson at Cooper focused on the NRF2 and KEAP1 genes, which play a key role in how cancer cells resist chemotherapy and immunotherapy,” said Generosa Grana, MD, FACP, director of MD Anderson at Cooper.
“Our focus on the NRF2 and KEAP1 genes is crucial in understanding how cancer cells evade treatment,” said David P. Warshal, MD, FACOG, of whom Barbara was a longtime patient. “These genes produce proteins that can shield cancer cells, making them resistant to treatment. By targeting these genes, researchers aim to unlock more effective treatments for patients facing advanced, treatment-resistant forms of cancer.”
“The Barbara T. Foundation is unwavering in its mission to eliminate ovarian cancer,” said Jay D. Ferraro, whose late wife, Barbara, inspired the Foundation’s creation. “Our continued support of the research program at MD Anderson at Cooper is fueled by deep appreciation for the physicians, researchers, and staff, and by a personal understanding of the urgency and devastation of ovarian cancer.”
“The generosity of donors like the Barbara T. Foundation allows us to accelerate discoveries that can transform the future of cancer care and deliver promising therapies to patients long before they become standard,” said George E. Norcross III, chairman of the Board of Trustees of Cooper University Health Care.
“We are especially honored when individuals and families touched by cancer choose to support our work—particularly when our team has been part of their care journey,” added Philip A. Norcross, Esq., chairman of The Cooper Foundation Board.
The Barbara T. Foundation was established in memory of Barbara T. Ferraro, whose six-year journey with ovarian cancer inspired a legacy of philanthropy and hope. Her family and friends remain dedicated to funding life-saving discoveries and honoring her memory.
Ovarian cancer is notoriously difficult to detect early. Symptoms are vague and commonly mistaken for other conditions, leading to diagnoses at more advanced stages when treatment becomes more complex. Compounding the challenge, ovarian cancer frequently develops resistance to standard therapies, reducing long-term survival rates.
The Gynecologic Cancer Center at MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper is the largest and most experienced program of its kind in South Jersey. For more than 30 years, its team of specialists has provided expert, compassionate care to women with cancer and precancerous diseases of the ovaries, uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, vulva, and vagina.
About The Barbara T. Foundation
The Barbara T. Ferraro Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation was founded on the vision of Barbara T. Ferraro, who courageously fought ovarian cancer for six years, passing away on February 20, 2023. Inspired by her journey, Barbara was determined to help others from the moment of her diagnosis. Today, fueled by faith, love, and passion, the Foundation commits 100% of its time and resources to the prevention, detection, and cure of ovarian cancer. Learn more and join the fight at www.beatovarian.org.
About MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper
MD Anderson Cancer Center at Cooper is South Jersey’s leading cancer center. Through our partnership with MD Anderson Cancer Center – a world-renowned cancer center – our patients have access to advanced cancer treatments. Our multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach to cancer care combines the expertise of our highly skilled cancer specialists with innovative diagnostic and treatment technologies and groundbreaking clinical trials.
MD Anderson at Cooper takes a disease-site-specific approach to cancer care. Experts from every area of cancer medicine work together to provide each patient with outstanding care from diagnosis to treatment, recovery, and beyond. Patients also have access to our full range of supportive care services throughout their cancer journey. Learn more at MDAndersonCooper.org.
About The Cooper Foundation
The Cooper Foundation supports the patients, services, research and educational programs of Cooper University Health Care, one of the largest health systems in southern New Jersey. By partnering with the community, we help Cooper thrive and do more for the people of South Jersey. Generosity allows Cooper to deliver research that leads to cures, growth and development that transforms communities and care that goes beyond the ordinary for patients and their families.
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