July 2025

At the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation (NETRF), we believe that the path to better treatments, and ultimately, cures, starts with research. Ensuring that we fund only the highest-quality, most promising research requires deep scientific expertise, careful oversight, and an unwavering commitment to integrity. That’s where our Board of Scientific Advisors (BOSA) comes in. This year, we are honored to welcome seven outstanding researchers to the NETRF BOSA. Each brings unique expertise that will enhance our ability to fund innovative, patient-focused science. Read more. 

When I was diagnosed with stage four neuroendocrine cancer in 2021, becoming an advocate for this extremely nuanced, rare cancer was not on my bingo card. But somewhere between the physical pains of recovering from a Whipple and the mental struggle of quarterly MRIs and CTs, I knew I had to start living my cancer battle in a more radical, in-your-face fashion. 

Read Jake's Story.

The landscape of biomedical research is undergoing a seismic shift. This year alone, the NIH has awarded roughly 6,800 fewer grants than in 2023—a staggering $2 billion drop in funding. Nearly 800 NIH grants have been canceled. While the effects ripple through the entire research ecosystem, the consequences for the neuroendocrine tumor (NET) research community are concerning. Read more.

Perspective Therapeutics has begun enrolling participants into the next phase of its clinical trial of a new targeted alpha radiation therapy for neuroendocrine tumors (NETs). The trial is evaluating a radiopharmaceutical called [212Pb]VMT-α-NET, which delivers radiation directly to cancer cells that have a specific receptor called somatostatin (SSTR2) on their surface. Read more. 

A recent study by Suriya Baskar, MD, and Udhayvir Singh Grewal, MD, published in the Journal of the National Comprehensive Cancer Network, sheds light on an often-overlooked yet vital aspect of the neuroendocrine tumor (NET) journey: how we care for patients when cure is no longer possible and comfort becomes the primary goal. Read more.

For many patients newly diagnosed with small, nonfunctioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (PanNETs), active surveillance (AS) with regular imaging and monitoring may be recommended, especially when tumors are less than 2 cm in size, do not cause symptoms, and appear low-grade.

But what if that approach sometimes isn't enough? Read more.

Watch the Pre-Conference Video and Join Us Live This Saturday

This introductory session is designed to help patients, caregivers, and advocates understand the basics of neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) and neuroendocrine carcinomas (NECs). Dr. Kimberly Perez breaks down the essential concepts, terminology, and differences between NETs and NECs in a clear and approachable way — equipping you with the knowledge to get the most out of the full conference. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or looking for a refresher, this pre-conference video ensures you’re prepared to engage fully in the conference presentations and take charge of your care.

The conference is just days away — join us this Saturday, July 26! There’s still time to register and be part of this empowering day of learning, connection, and hope.

"Palliative Care as Part of the Cancer Thrivership Journey" In this Thrivership Series, we explore how palliative care supports people living with neuroendocrine cancer—physically, emotionally, and spiritually. You’ll learn how to ask for this support, how it fits into the thrivership journey, and why it’s not about giving up, but about living well, on your terms. 

From coast to coast, friends of NETRF are lacing up, teeing off, and raising a glass - all in support of life-changing research for neuroendocrine cancer. These upcoming community events are full of heart and purpose, and you’re invited to join in the fun.

Upcoming Events Supporting NETRF:
Matt’s 2 Miler Road Race
Hosted by Abby Griffin
Saturday, September 13, 2025 at 12:00 PM
Recreation Station, 647 Pappas Way, South Boston, MA
Post-race celebration at Lord Hobo Brewing

Frank DeBenedetto Golf Tournament
Hosted by Gina and Marie DeBenedetto
Thursday, September 30, 2025
Knob Hill Golf Club, Manalapan Township, NJ

Celebration for Sheryl (Cocktails and Dinner)
Hosted by Jim Jungsten
Saturday, November 1, 2025
North Ridge Country Club, Fair Oaks, CA

Interested in attending one of these events or hosting one of your own? Contact Steve Perna at steve.perna@netrf.org to learn more.

Our boldest-ever fundraising campaign launched in June and we’re thrilled to report that together we raised over $125,000 in just 30 days. But that’s not all…reaching our goal of $100,000 unlocked an additional $100,000 match from NETRF board member Steve Kaufer, bringing the total funds raised to over $225,000 for the month of June. None of this would be possible without your commitment to funding life-changing progress for the neuroendocrine cancer community.

Because of you, we’re able to accelerate the work outlined in our Research Roadmap — from early detection tools to new therapeutic development to personalized treatments. Your support also allows us to expand trusted educational resources that empower patients, caregivers, and clinicians with knowledge and confidence.

Your generosity is already at work — in labs, in clinics, and in the lives of people who urgently need better answers and more options.

Thank you for creating this momentum. We are profoundly grateful.

And, this is just the beginning! At a time when research funding is at risk, NETRF is more determined than ever to go further and faster. Our bold goal is to raise $25 million by 2030 to fuel the next wave of discovery. With your support and partnership, we can reach this milestone and realize breakthroughs today, cures tomorrow, together. 

NET Research Foundation
100 Hancock Street,
Third floor
Quincy, MA 02171
(617) 946-1780 info@netrf.org

The mission of the Neuroendocrine Tumor Research Foundation is to fund research to discover cures and more effective treatments for neuroendocrine cancer. NETRF is the largest global funder of neuroendocrine research and a preeminent resource for expert patient education and support.



NETRF is a 501(c)(3) organization. All donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.