The WHY
The F.A.P. Foundation’s vision is to be a
beacon of light - extending life expectancy, enhancing life quality, and instilling hope in those diagnosed with Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (F.A.P.) and other
hereditary colon cancer diseases. An estimated 1 in 10,000 Americans are currently living
with hereditary colon cancer disease. Due to its rarity, there is a gross shortage of medical specialists and information. We will connect patients and doctors to medical, educational and social resources, promote requisite research and health care
initiatives, and provide financial support for screening, treatment, counseling, and family planning.
TODAY
Today, when a patient is diagnosed with F.A.P., she will likely fall under the care of a gastroenterologist, whom has never treated a patient with this disease. In order to care for her, this doctor will have access to a limited amount of published
resources. When the patient turns to the internet to learn what her prognosis means, she will find a few medical explanations, but minimal patient-based information. She will not be able to thoroughly research her surgical options. She will not be able to
find dietary recommendations that teach her how to ensure proper nutrition for her surgically altered body. She will not find inspiring words that give her hope for living an active life with this disease.
TOMORROW
Someday, when a patient is diagnosed with F.A.P., she will be supported, not only by her family, but also by a network of specialists and fellow survivors. She will have access to an entire community along with resources developed for hereditary
colon cancer patients, their loved ones and care-givers. This community will include survivors, hereditary colon cancer specialists, dietitians, surgeons, researchers, therapists, family planners and alternative medical practitioners.
Ultimately, this patient, along with her loved ones and medical care givers, will feel empowered. Together, they will be able to make informed decisions. They will read inspiring stories and interact with other survivors. They
will be filled with hope, knowing that they can lead active, joyful lives and can in-turn inspire others to do the same.
'IT TAKES GUTS' RIDE
Departing June 15, 2013, F.A.P. Foundation founders, Travis and Shawnie Bray, will lead the circumnavigation of Lake Michigan on bicycles. Traveling over 1000 miles, for 15 days travelers will break down their camp,
load their gear into pannier bags, and cycle an average of 70 miles to their next campsite. Fellow riders can choose from 5, 25, and 100 mile rides - or do the full monty - all 1000 miles! For more information go to www.facebook.com/ItTakesGutsRide.
F.A.P Foundation Board Members at Launch Party
Travis & Shawn Bray training for the "It Takes Guts" 1000 mile Lake Michigan ride.
