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Annual Donations for Pancreatic Cancer Research

At the Wayne Fusaro Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund, we aim to not only heighten the awareness of pancreatic cancer but also raise money for necessary research.  

Each year we hold numerous fundraisers and at year-end donate our funds to help support Dr. Whitcomb and Dr Brand’s lab at the University of Pittsburgh/UPMC. We are proud we have donated close to $550,000 to date.  

Fusaro Family Fund Scholarship Award

We understand the importance of supporting medical students and nurses who share our commitment.

We were proud to fund our first award in 2022 which included funding for additional classes and courses in this field. 

We consider these awards not just a recognition of the hard work and dedication of these individuals but also an investment in the future of Pancreatic Cancer research. By funding their education, we are empowering them to make groundbreaking discoveries that could save countless lives in the future.

If you are interested in supporting the award fund financially you may contact either Gary Dubin or Jill.

Who Can Apply for Our Awards?

Our awards are open to all medical students and nurses who are currently engaged in the field of Pancreatic Cancer Research. We are looking for individuals who are passionate about making a difference and are willing to dedicate their careers to this important cause.

How To Get Involved With The Fusaro Family Fund Scholarship Award

  • If you are interested in additional information or to apply contact Joy Merusi.

Selection Process

All applications are reviewed by our panel of experts. We consider the applicant's commitment to the field, their proposed plan for the use of the award funds, and their potential to make significant contributions to Pancreatic Cancer Research.

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Past Awardees Stephanie Romutis, MD

Stephanie Romutis, MD is the inaugural recipient of the Fusaro Family Fund scholarship award. She is an assistant professor of medicine with the Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition at the University of Pittsburgh and UPMC, where she serves as an advanced endoscopist and gastroenterologist. Dr. Romutis also has an appointment with the VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System. As a therapeutic endoscopist, Dr. Romutis specializes in upper gastrointestinal tract procedures, including diagnostic, therapeutic, and palliative care for pancreatic cancer and pancreatic diseases. 

“I am honored to receive the Fusaro Family Fund scholarship award and appreciate the support of the Fursaro family as we continue to explore ways to improve pancreatic cancer care,” says Dr. Romutis. She will utilize the WFPCRF scholarship to prepare and abstract for Digestive Disorders Week. Digestive Disorder Week is the largest annual meeting globally for gastroenterology professionals and provides a venue to share and discuss cutting edge research and advances in gastrointestinal care, including pancreatic cancer. “My research abstract will reflect progress to better understand how social determinants of health impact pancreatic cystic neoplasm care. A subset of patients with pancreatic cysts will develop pancreatic cancer, and we are working to identify which types of cysts are precursors for pancreatic cancer and which subsets of the population may be at a higher risk for cyst progression.” 

Our Impact

Over the years, the Wayne Fusaro Pancreatic Cancer Research Fund has made a significant impact in the field of Pancreatic Cancer Research. The awards we give out are a testament to our commitment to this cause and our belief in the power of research and education to change and save lives.