About the Foundation

Jeanne Whiting, President and Marlene Portnoy, Executive Director

Our Mission

Founded in 2005, The Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation (DTRF)* is dedicated to funding research for a cure for desmoid tumors.

The founders have a deep sense of urgency in this cause motivated by a personal connection to the disease. We press forward to fund cutting-edge research that will develop new effective therapies for desmoid tumors, leading to the ultimate goal -- a cure!

Research Funding

DTRF is the only foundation in the country dedicated to funding desmoid tumor research and finding a cure for this rare disease. We fund research projects at some of the world’s top cancer research centers in both basic science and clinical trials.

DTRF-funded research seeks to determine what goes wrong in cells to generate these tumors, what medical and surgical options work best, and what existing drugs or potential new drugs could provide effective treatments.

We have facilitated collaboration between researchers 
from different institutions to expedite the development of a cure. DTRF-funded research has already made significant advancements in our understanding of the disease. Discoveries made through desmoid tumor research can also potentially be applied to many other kinds of cancers such as breast, colon, ovarian and other sarcoma cancers.

Tissue Donation

DTRF has facilitated much-needed patient donation of tissue samples to research hospitals.

Education and Collaboration

DTRF has established a very successful annual fall symposium which brings patients, physicians and researchers together for education, support and collaboration. In addition, our website is a clearinghouse of information on desmoid tumors and published desmoid tumor research, reaching patients, physicians and researchers around the globe.

Patient Support

Patients are no longer fighting this disease alone. Our website provides information and helps direct them to other sources for information and support. Our annual patient meeting provides a supportive environment for patient interaction and informative lectures by clinicians and researchers. Most of all, we seek to support patients by giving them hope through funding research for a cure.

Our fundraising events around the country promote awareness and give patients and their families and friends a healing way to make a difference as proactive advocates for a cure.

We know that our goal is within reach – but we can only get there with your support. Please join the cause and take action.

**The Desmoid Tumor Research Foundation, Inc. is a Connecticut non-stock, nonprofit corporation which has been determined by the IRS to be a tax-exempt Section 501(c)(3) organization. Donations are deductible to the extent allowed by law.

DTRF is a member of National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD), a unique federation of individuals and organizations working together to build a better world for people affected by rare disease

We are a member of LiveStrongLIVESTRONG Young Adult Alliance a(LiveStrong AYA). A coalition of organizations dedicated to improving survival rates and quality of life for young adults with cancer.

DTRF joins the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) and others around the world in observing Rare Disease Day in February annually. The purpose is to focus attention on the needs of patients and families affected by rare diseases.

DTRF seeks to facilitate international collaboration in finding a cure for desmoid tumors, and cooperates with international organizations such as SOS Desmoide in France.