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The Murphys assert, “You invest in people not in institutions. Lineberger, with science-savvy leaders like Chancellor Thorp, Dr. Earp and Dean Roper create an environment where creativity and innovation flourish.”

For Marty and Ann Murphy of Durham there was never a question of where — or whether — they would invest in cancer research. Their business is to have the pulse of the global cancer community. Dr. Martin (Marty) Murphy is the head of the CEO Cancer Roundtable, a global think tank comprised of major corporate leaders with an interest in cancer. Dr. Ann Murphy is publisher of The Oncologist and Stem Cells. The Oncologist is a monthly international peer-reviewed journal for physicians devoted to cancer patient care. Stem Cells is the oldest journal in the fast-paced area of stem cells and regenerative medicine. The Murphys assert, “You invest in people not in institutions. Lineberger, with science-savvy leaders like Chancellor Thorp, Dr. Earp and Dean Roper create an environment where creativity and innovation flourish.”

To the Murphys, cancer is a pandemic. They believe that making progress in cancer research will change the course of our species. “Like every parent and grandparent we feel strongly about investing in our children’s future. We have a sense of honor and duty to work with people we hold in high regard. Faculty members like Drs. Lisa Carey, Hy Muss and Chuck Perou represent the best talent in the country. Dr. Rich Goldberg is a prime example of someone who has led clinical trials that have changed the course of treatment of GI cancers.” says Marty. For the Murphys and their family, investing in the work of these scientists is a powerful way of honoring and thanking them.

Marty and Ann reflect that while their focus is to conquer cancer through research and education, they also value the compassionate patient care at UNC. “To have the best in contemporary research is wonderful, but patients who come to the N.C. Cancer Hospital for care will always remember the comforting touch of human hands by caring faculty and staff.” For the Murphy family, that’s what makes UNC Lineberger a great cancer center deserving of recognition and investment from the international cancer community.