Call To Action

        Throughout my entire capstone project, I have aimed all my research at answering one question: Why haven’t we found a cure for cancer? I have examined the aspect of cancer research from all angles. I looked at three phases of cancer research; surgical stage, research, and fundraising. I started out by interviewing and shadowing oncologist in surgery removing cancerous tumors, which is one way of treating cancer. Although many times surgery doesn't “cure” patients,  it is typically one of the most successful options available. I then shadowed leading cancer researchers in the lab to see how scientists test new drugs for treating cancer. While talking with the researchers, they mentioned that they would not be able to afford all the equipment and materials if it wasn’t for the money raised by charities. For my service, I helped plan and organize a fundraiser.  We successfully raised a million dollars, which will go to finding a cure for cancer. If you are interested in donating to a cancer research charity, please click the following: Stefanie Spielman Fund.

JD Equipment donating $26,000 to the Stefanie
 Spielman Fundon the Buckeye Cruise for Caner.
From left to right are Chris Spielman, John Griffith,
Karla Mitchell, Jeff Mitchell, and Dr. Michael
Caligiuri (CEO of James Cancer Center, OSU).

             After thoroughly investigating these three phases, I have come up with a conclusion on why we do not have a cure for cancer. This is a very challenging question to answer since some of the top doctors have not been able to. I have concluded that cancer is a very complex disease that shows up differently in every person. There is not one type of cancer, therefore you cannot come up with just one treatment. The cure has to be individualized for the patient depending on their cancer and what organs are affected. Since cancer is so complex, we do not have enough knowledge on the disease to cure it with a singe pill or treatment. Until then, prevention is our best cure. For example, wearing sunscreen to protect us from harmful UV rays helps prevent skin cancer. Regular screenings such as Colonoscopies, papsmears, and breast exams can lead to early detection and higher survival rates of cancer. Until the day comes when all types of cancers are cured, prevention, early detection, and prompt medical care are our best weapons against this dreaded disease.