Innovative Research Support is Why I Participate in Miles for Moffitt
For Moffitt Cancer Center researcher Dr. Jennifer Permuth, Miles for Moffitt isn’t just another fundraising event, it’s a chance to fund innovative cancer research projects and honor patients who are being taken care of at the cancer center and those who have passed away.
Permuth, vice chair of Research in Moffitt’s Department of Gastrointestinal Oncology, has participated in the annual event for more than a decade. She knows firsthand why the initiative is so important, from being a researcher and from seeing a loved one deal with cancer.
At the age of 44, Permuth’s sister Rachel was diagnosed with metastatic colon cancer after her primary care physician had dismissed some of the symptoms she was having. When she insisted on having a colonoscopy, a colorectal tumor was found. She transferred her care to Moffitt, where she is currently being treated.
Dr. Jennifer Permuth, assistant member in the departments of Cancer Epidemiology and Gastrointestinal Oncology
“My family is grateful for the outstanding care provided by our Gastrointestinal Oncology team. They have treated Rachel like family, and it’s clear that the caliber of compassionate care and the multidisciplinary expertise they bring to the table is first class,” she said.
Permuth says she is happy to be part of a community and culture that is truly dedicated to their mission.
“When I am at the race, I am comforted to know that every dollar raised is used to fund innovative and clinically significant research projects designed by our bright and talented faculty,” said Permuth. “That can’t be said for many organizations. These funds are critical to make advances and to improve outcomes for our patients and our community.”
This year, as Miles for Moffitt presented by AutoNation returns to an in-person event with the option of participating virtually, Permuth recalls the feeling she gets on event day: inspiration and hope.
“I get teary-eyed as I cross the finish line each year. I get emotional because I feel it’s unfair that our patients and their families have to battle cancer day in and day out,” Permuth said. “But I do know that we at Moffitt are doing everything in our power to accelerate advances as quickly as possible.”
Over the past 16 years, Miles for Moffitt has raised over $7 million supporting lifesaving cancer research at Moffitt and has gained millions in additional federal support.
Join Permuth in her pursuit to help contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer at this year’s Miles for Moffitt on Nov. 20 in downtown Tampa. For more information or to register for the 2021 Miles for Moffitt, visit www.MilesforMoffitt.com.
