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.
“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,” Dr. Generosa Grana, director of MD Anderson at Cooper, said.
“Our focus on the NRF2 and KEAP1 genes is crucial in understanding how cancer cells evade treatment,” Dr. David P. Warshal, of whom Barbara was a longtime patient, said. “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,” Jay D. Ferraro said. Jay’s 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 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.
