City of Hope cancer research and treatment center in Duarte, Calif., said it has received a $1 million gift from Tony Markel, Markel Corp. vice chairman, and his daughters, Diana and Melinda Markel, to establish a research fund.
The Markel/Friedman Peritoneal Ovarian Cancer Research Fund was created in memory of Mr. Markel's late wife, Susan Markel, it was announced.
Augmented by nearly $250,000 in personal donations made in Ms. Markel's memory, the fund will support multiple research programs dedicated to the early detection and improved treatments of this disease.
Mr. Markel lost his wife to peritoneal cancer in January. The fund also recognizes Michael A. Friedman, M.D., City of Hope president and chief executive officer, for the support he provided to the Markel family during Ms. Markel's treatment.
"Each year, peritoneal and ovarian cancers affect an estimated 175,000 women and their families," said Mr. Markel. "There is a tremendous need for research to help improve treatments and outcomes for women facing these diseases.
"The Markel/Friedman Peritoneal Ovarian Cancer Research Fund will promote research collaboration and help City of Hope uncover new treatments and screening methods that can help save lives."
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