Proton Treatment Center Receives $3.5 Million For Epilepsy Research
Saturday, June 01, 2002
Loma Linda University Proton Treatment Center physicians and scientists believe protons can be used as an effective, non-evasive treatment for children with epilepsy. The Henry L. Guenther Foundation supports this endeavor and awarded the Proton Treatment Center with a generous grant of $3.5 million in January, 2002.
Although this is the third grant given to the institution by the foundation, it is unprecedented in several ways. "This grant is the largest award made by the Guenther Foundation to Loma Linda to date," explains Albin H. Grohar, PhD, executive director of advancement for Loma Linda University & Medical Center. "It also represents the largest private grant made for proton research."
This gift will fund research and development of a pediatric epilepsy protocol during a five-year period. "The humanitarian potential is enormous," comments James M. Slater, MD, FACR, professor and vice chair of radiation medicine. "There is an urgent need to develop effective treatment alternatives for intractable epilepsy."
An estimated 50 million people worldwide suffer from epilepsy. This incurable neurological condition strikes individuals of every age. Epilepsy is the most common neurological disorder diagnosed in children and occurs more frequently than diabetes or kidney disease. Annually, 200,000 new cases of epilepsy are reported nationwide. Seventy-five percent of these cases are identified in children.
In the United States, 300,000 children experience reoccurring seizures as a result of the debilitating disorder. When uncontrolled, epilepsy can have a devastating effect on a child’s mental capabilities, emotional well-being, and physical safety. Available treatment options to reduce seizure activity are limited, and sadly, some children do not respond to conventional brain surgery, specialized diet, or other therapies. Proton therapy will provide early intervention for children with epilepsy and positively impact their lives by improving their quality of life.
"The Henry L. Guenther Foundation is one of the foremost private philanthropies in California with a keen interest in medical research," says Dr. Grohar. "We are thrilled that the foundation has chosen to support Dr. Slater and his scientific research." During the past seven years, foundation trustees have been persistent in their continuing commitments to further proton research.
B. Lyn Behrens, MBBS, president of Loma Linda University & Medical Center, states, "This award is exciting to say the least. We are indeed deeply grateful to the directors of the foundation for their philanthropic and humanitarian leadership."
