Nicholas DiVanna will be running the New York City Marathon on November 5, 2023, in memory of his uncle, John DiVanna. Nicholas and his family have been steadfast supporters of The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation and have attended past events in Brooklyn and Rhode Island. Now to further commemorate his Uncle John, Nicholas is also fundraising on behalf of Salgi. Read his story below and donate to his fundraiser by clicking here.
“On November 5th, 2023, I will be running the New York City marathon. I want to dedicate my first marathon in honor of my Uncle Johnny. My Uncle Johnny was the biggest supporter in everything I did in life and always encouraged me to be the best version of myself.
I’m fundraising for the Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation, which is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity that does amazing work to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and to fund research of esophageal cancer in hopes of a cure.
All donations are tax deductible and greatly appreciated. Thank you so much in advance for your support, no matter how big or small.”
To make a donation towards the fundraiser , click here.
Learn the facts about esophageal cancer:
-Esophageal cancer has increased over 733% in the past four decades and is considered one of the fastest growing and deadliest cancer in the US and western world.
-Risk factors include:
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, acid reflux, chronic heartburn),
- obesity,
- poor nutrition,
- tobacco use,
- excessive alcohol use,
- Barrett’s esophagus.
-As one of the deadliest cancers, esophageal cancer has a 5-year survival rate of only 20.6%.
-There are no routine or standard screenings to improve early detection of esophageal cancer.
-Symptoms often arise late once the cancer is considered advanced or “distant” (spread to lymph nodes and other organs.)
-Stage IV esophageal cancer has a survival rate of only 5.7%.
-In 2023, an estimated 21,560 will be diagnosed and there will be an estimated 16,120 deaths.
-Despite all these facts, esophageal cancer research is extremely underfunded.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation awarded five research grants since it’s founding in 2012! The first in 2015 and the second in 2018. The research awarded in 2018, a breath test for esophageal cancer, is currently underway. In June, 2023, The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation awarded three grants.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit as recognized by the IRS.
The Salgi Esophageal Cancer Research Foundation 