Thinking Outside the Box to Defeat Cancer

Thinking Outside the Box to Defeat Cancer: An Inside Look at the Visionary Work of HCRF

Jane Clauss hosts a special episode of Creative Living, focusing on the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation (HCRF) and its efforts in cancer research. The foundation, led by Dr. Leonidas Platanias and Chairwoman Eleni Bousis, has made significant strides in cancer treatment, particularly in immunotherapy, which has improved cancer patient survival by 20%. Nicole Liadas and Janelle Adames, board members, discuss the importance of “think outside the box” research and the foundation’s mission to support personalized cancer treatments. They emphasize the need for continued funding and awareness, with a gala scheduled for November 2 at Navy Pier to raise funds and create awareness.

Here is a brief rundown of the full conversation:

Introduction to the Podcast and Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation: 0:00 – 3:00

• Jane Clauss introduces the podcast and the special episode focused on cancer, a topic that has touched many lives.
• She highlights the work of the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation (HCRF) and its significant contributions to cancer research.
• Jane introduces Nicole Liadas and Janell Adames, two board members of HCRF, who will share their insights and passion for the foundation’s work.
• Nicole Liadas has a PhD in molecular biology and is a clinical cancer researcher, while Janell Adamis is an executive board member and breast cancer survivor.

Personal Stories and Inspiration Behind HCRF: 3:00 – 8:00

• Janell Adames shares her personal journey with breast cancer, diagnosed on November 3, 2011, and how it led her to get involved in cancer research.
• She emphasizes the importance of supporting organizations that aim to eradicate cancer and improve patient outcomes.
• Nicole Liadas discusses her background in cancer research and how meeting Eleni Bousis, the founder of HCRF, inspired her to join the foundation.
• Nicole shares stories from her clinical research experiences, highlighting the urgent need for better cancer treatments and outcomes.

Leadership and Vision of HCRF: 8:00 – 12:00

• Jane Clauss asks about the roles of Eleni Bousis and Dr. Leonidas Platanias in the foundation’s success.
• Nicole and Janell describe Eleni as a relentless and inspiring leader who brings people together to end cancer.
• They highlight the importance of HCRF’s focus on “think outside the box” cancer research and its collaboration with the Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center.
• The foundation’s unique approach to supporting innovative research is emphasized as a key differentiator from other cancer research foundations.

Innovative Research and Immunotherapy: 12:00 – 18:00

• Nicole explains the concept of “think outside the box” research and how it is revolutionizing cancer diagnosis, treatment, and cure.
• She discusses the Lurie Cancer Center’s program that brings together scientists from various disciplines to tackle cancer research from multiple angles.
• Janell shares her perspective as a survivor, emphasizing the importance of supporting an organization that helps every type of cancer patient.
• The conversation touches on the personal impact of cancer and the need for a society to come together to support cancer research.

Achievements and Impact of HCRF: 18:00 – 22:00

• Nicole highlights some of the significant achievements of HCRF, including its support for cutting-edge research at Northwestern.
• She mentions the importance of immunotherapy as a promising treatment for all types of cancer and the Lurie Cancer Center’s role in optimizing its use.
• Jane Clauss asks for an explanation of immunotherapy, and Nicole provides a detailed explanation of how it works and its impact on cancer treatment.
• The discussion includes the potential for personalized treatment plans and the importance of tailoring treatments to individual patients.

Challenges and Future of Cancer Research: 22:00 – 26:00

• Jane asks about the biggest challenges researchers face in cancer research. 
• Nicole identifies the challenge of creating personalized treatment plans for individual patients and keeping up with the increasing number of cancer diagnoses.
• The conversation shifts to the importance of awareness and funding for cancer research, with Jane emphasizing the need for continuous support.
• Janell and Nicole discuss the upcoming gala event and its role in raising awareness and funds for HCRF’s mission.

The Role of Awareness and Fundraising: 26:00 – 32:00

• Janell explains the significance of the gala event and the theme of celebrating the foundation’s progress over the past 10 years.
• She introduces the chair couple for the gala, Chris Lardakis and Shaina Hurley Lardakis, who have a personal connection to cancer.
• Nicole shares her inspiration from being part of HCRF and the importance of supporting cutting-edge research at Northwestern.
• The conversation highlights the global impact of the Lurie Cancer Center’s research and the foundation’s role in fostering collaboration and innovation.

Call to Action and Final Thoughts: 32:00 – 35:00

• Jane asks how people can get involved and support HCRF’s mission.
• Janell encourages people to visit the HCRF website, attend the gala, and volunteer to help cancer patients.
• Nicole emphasizes the importance of personalized treatment and the role of clinical trials in finding the best treatment options for patients.
• The conversation concludes with a call to action for listeners to support HCRF and be part of the effort to end cancer.

Thank you for listening to Creative Living.