As the Event Planner for the Dean's Office of the UC Irvine School of Medicine, I am committed to the role of the Dean's captain for Team Stamos Swarm and its fundraising efforts for the UC Irvine Anti-Cancer Challenge. I believe that together, we can create a cancer-free world.

Our recent progress in the fight against cancer has been remarkable. We are now curing cancers that were once a death sentence. And we have turned others into chronic conditions whose medical management resembles diabetes or high blood pressure rather than cancer.

But this progress depends on fundamental research on the causes, detection, prevention, and treatment of cancer, including cancer survivorship, that takes place at National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer centers like ours. We have an urgent need for resources to support the most innovative, paradigm-shifting research of our cancer scientists and clinicians. Today, this is particularly important given the potential reduction to NCI funding.

That's where the Anti-Cancer Challenge comes in. 100% of funds raised by participants go directly to life-saving cancer research at the UC Irvine Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center and our pediatric cancer partner, CHOC/Rady Children’s Health. Every gift - no matter the size - makes an impact.

Please join the Dean, his Stamos Swarm, and myself in the fight against cancer in any number of ways:

- Walk, run, or ride at the in-person Aldrich Park festival, or join us virtually from anywhere.
- Invite your friends, family, and network—everyone is welcome on our team!
- Prefer to support as a donor or volunteer? All contributions here, large or small, are 100% tax-deductible and truly meaningful.

Participate. Fundraise. Spread the word. Together, we are making a difference—one step, ride, and run at a time!

With gratitude,

Kevin Nguyen
Event Planner & Analyst
Dean's Office, Administration
UC Irvine School of Medicine