Letter to the Editor

Zigang Dong, M.D., Dr. P.H., Executive Director, The Hormel Institute

Nearly 250 people walking together through Austin on a beautiful summer afternoon July 2 generated considerable awareness for The Hormel Institute’s world-renowned cancer research and sense of community in the fight against this devastating disease.

On behalf of the faculty and staff at The Hormel Institute, University of Minnesota-Mayo Clinic, we extend our deepest thanks to everyone who made our first “Walk for a Cancer Free World” event such a great success. Thank you to everyone who walked or took part in the post-walk entertainment and program at Bandshell Park.

We also express our sincerest gratitude to Sandy Forstner, Jeff Baldus and others at the Austin Area Chamber of Commerce for partnering with The Hormel Institute to put on the “Walk for a Cancer Free World.” Their support and hard work were vital in creating and making this event a success.

People from all walks of life are affected by cancer in some way, and the strong turnout for the “Walk for a Cancer Free World” reflected that well. Participants showed a deep understanding for the importance of research – the only answer to cancer – and appreciation for The Hormel Institute’s aggressive research that is accelerating discoveries to prevent or control cancer.

Many thanks again to our friends from the community. You bring much support and encouragement to The Hormel Institute’s researchers. We all share the commitment and vision of “Today’s Research, Tomorrow’s Cures.”