Although we have always philanthropically supported cancer research, we truly didn’t understand the magnitude of the disease until it became excruciatingly personal to us. As well-documented, Greg’s father, Glen Gard, passed away in October of 2015, after a 6-month battle with Glioblastoma Multiforme, a form of brain cancer. A few months following his death, we began reflecting on our journey and having conversations about how to embrace and carry forward the lessons we learned. We considered the best ways we could use our experience to help other people, while honoring our late father.
Through this process, it became clear to us that we wanted our impact to be across the state of Wisconsin as it’s these very same people and places that have made both of us who we are today. We wanted our presence to be felt by patients and researchers in the Dane County community as well as from border to border across Wisconsin. Glen was very entrenched into helping locally first and foremost and therefore the idea to help our home state became a top priority. We wanted to think globally but help locally, just as Glen did for much of his adult life.
Thus, our “Garding Against Cancer” campaign was born. As to gain ground and catch this dreaded disease, our campaign supports cancer researchers around the state. We utilize our platform, our voice and resources, our time and energy to offer awareness of all types of cancer, support those who spend their daily lives studying prevention of this disease, stand with those who are searching for cures, fight with those who are providing better treatment options and most importantly, support the patients and their families who are personally affected by cancer. With so many great resources and people right here in Wisconsin, it made perfect sense to us to do as much as possible, with, and for, those right here at home.
We know that with highly dedicated people and resources behind this campaign, we will have a tangible, visible impact across Wisconsin.
Coach Greg & Michelle Gard
CURRENT IMPACTS OF GIVING
Investing in innovative “tumor-on-a-chip” models that help researchers test therapies faster and more accurately, as well as advances in immunotherapy, cell-based treatments and precision medicine. Scientists are using molecular profiling and biomarkers to personalize care for cancers such as breast and prostate cancer.
Providing critical funding for bold ideas, emerging technologies and rapid translation of discoveries into patient care. With 250+ active clinical trials, patients gain early access to promising new therapies.
Funding for theranostics, which combines therapeutics and diagnostics, and has the potential to revolutionize how cancer is found and treated.
Supporting immunotherapy work with pediatric cancer patients to improve patient outcomes by discovering new targets for cancer therapy, developing therapeutic agents and biomarkers as well as translating this research into early phase clinical trials.
Shining a light on the Wisconsin Cancer Collaborative, a statewide coalition of organizations working together to reduce the burden of cancer for everyone in Wisconsin. The Collaborative connects members with the tools, support and knowledge they need to create healthier communities.
