Message from the Breast Cancer Research Council Chair
By Susan M. Shinagawa, Chair
The 1993 Breast Cancer Act gave breast cancer survivors and patient advocates, for the first time, a seat at the table with researchers, clinicians, representatives of nonprofit health agencies and private industry to create and develop a state-of-the-art research program — from the ground up.
Under the able leadership of Chair Susan Claymon, the Council had a busy and productive inaugural year. We convened an Advisory Meeting in July 1994 to gain perspective on the state of breast cancer research across the country. It was from this national perspective that we developed research priorities for Grant Cycle I.
On a "fast track" to award grants by June 30, 1995 — the end of the state's fiscal year — we recommended awards totaling approximately $19 million to fund breast cancer research projects in California. At the same time, a Council subcommittee conducted an investigation and evaluation of Cycle I procedures, producing two in-depth reports for presentation to the Breast Cancer Research Program.
Council members are proud of our achievements in the first 18 months, while recognizing that, as with any new program, we are on a challenging learning curve. Aware that many of our goals are yet to be realized, we are developing and implementing new ideas, procedures and priorities. Planning is well under way for Grant Cycles II and III.
Two major areas of focus for the Council this year are outreach and linkage. It's our goal not only to increase interest and awareness in BCRP among all Californians who are involved in breast cancer issues, but also to build relationships with — and create vehicles for — those stakeholders to provide input into the program.
In addition, we are developing specific ideas for initiating and facilitating links between grass-roots community advocates and agencies, for-profit organizations, breast cancer clinics, clinicians and other breast cancer health providers and researchers.
I am optimistic that the Council will implement innovative, relevant outreach and linkage programs and activities, which will reap far-reaching and long-lasting benefits for all Californians in the battle to conquer breast cancer.
