Goals and Objectives

Supporting Research and Improving Patient Care

The Foundation funds research in Birmingham, Alabama led by Martin J. Heslin, M.D., Professor of Surgery at the University of Alabama - Birmingham, and Director of the Multidisciplinary Gastrointestinal Oncology Clinic (MDGIOC) at the Kirklin Clinic. The foundation's goal is to raise funds to support the following initiatives:

• Identify and support capital equipment needs for the laboratories of researchers involved with GI cancers at UAB.
• Recruit and retain high quality research personnel to advance the diagnostic, prognostic and treatment opportunities in basic science and clinical research.
• Establish a funded lectureship in GI Oncology at UAB.
• Establish an endowed chair in Surgical Oncology within UAB that would be a perpetual source of funding for designated programs.
• Create a board that reviews grant requests for funding novel research for curative GI cancer treatment on a national level.

Patient Care

The Foundation provides ongoing support for the University of Alabama - Birmingham Multidisciplinary Gastrointestinal Oncology Clinic (MDGIOC) for specialized patient care. Gastrointestinal cancers include pancreatic, gastric, esophageal, colorectal and liver cancers. The clinic is designed for the needs of the patient and the patient's family. The primary benefit to the patient is a coordinated efficient cancer care clinic. All relevant disciplines are organized around a single visit with the goal of providing clear direction to the patient and family about the best treatment options. The MDGIOC was established to provide a patient-centered, innovative approach to delivering world-class cancer care.

Research

The key to finding a cure is through research. The UAB Surgical Oncology Research Laboratory is where physician researchers search for cures for these dreaded GI cancers. Dr. Heslin and his team are applying highly advanced knowledge, innovative treatment and scientific research in the field of GI cancer. The Reed Foundation provides a direct stream financial support to the MDGIOC and the surgical oncology research labs, keeping all funds local and focused.