Pancreatic cancer is often detected late during imaging for vague symptoms, leaving patients with few treatment options. Across all stages, 13% of patients survive the disease more than five years; those with late stage cases, a staggering 5%. Experts expect to diagnose the disease twice as often as now by 2030. Survival rates, though they are still low, have also more than doubled over the past decade thanks to breakthroughs in early detection, new therapies, and research powered by philanthropy.

“We want to transform pancreatic cancer from a deadly disease into a manageable one," said David Bajor, MD, Medical Director, Dahms Clinical Research Unit, UH Seidman Cancer Center, and the Judie and Chuck Miller Chair in Colon Cancer Research. “And one day,” Dr. Bajor added, “pancreatic cancer may even be a curable one.”

Dr. Bajor is also Co-Chair of the Case Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Protocol Review & Monitoring Committee, which ensures that the center conducts the highest quality clinical research.

Thanks to the generosity of Maryann and Larry Kennedy, Dr. Bajor will now also hold the title of Maryann Z. and Larry Kennedy Master Clinician in Pancreatic Cancer Research, with renewed capacity to pursue his vision for the field.

“Dr. Bajor is not only a top-tier researcher but a caring and attentive person,” said Maryann. “We’re incredibly grateful that he’s here to help so many patients at UH.”

The Kennedys have also served UH as members of the UH Seidman Cancer Leadership Council. Both enjoyed long careers in healthcare, with Maryann becoming the first woman to serve as President of the Greater Cleveland Academy of Pharmacy. Covering multiple winter seasons, Larry has represented Santa at UH Rainbow Babies & Children’s, volunteering his time to bring cheer to young patients.

This is the Kennedy’s second time supporting an endowed position at UH Seidman Cancer Center. In 2016, they created the Maryann Z. and Larry Kennedy Chair in Breast Cancer Prevention and Early Intervention, which focuses on innovative care for women at risk of breast cancer.

“Guiding a person through cancer care is an honor that deserves the utmost diligence,” said Dr. Bajor. “We help people through one of the most trying times of their lives, and not one of them is the same.”

Dr. Bajor leads patients through every stage of treatment, standing at the center of a coordinated team. “We deal with every aspect of the disease, from chemotherapy to referrals for surgery, to radiation, to managing pain and side effects,” he said. “UH Seidman has some of the best surgeons, radiation oncologists, and endoscopists in the world. We’re a one-stop-shop.”