Improving Lives Through Research and Patient Care

At UC San Diego – a powerful magnet for those seeking a fresh, next-generation approach to research – private support helps to fund groundbreaking discoveries.

Giving Baby Boomers the Fountain of Youth

The U.S. Census Bureau estimates that by 2030, 25 percent of the population will be over 65 years of age. As a result, more and more individuals will be living with chronic and debilitating conditions such as diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s.

A grant of nearly $2 million from the Larry L. Hillblom Foundation will offer researchers at UC San Diego the opportunity to better understand the process of aging and discover new ways of minimizing its effects. Funding from the late DHL co-founder will serve as a catalyst for research in the new Division of Geriatrics at the UC San Diego School of Medicine.

Surf Legends and Cancer Survivors Team Up

Lorraine Schmalenberger never thought of herself as a “survivor” despite being diagnosed with early stage breast cancer five years ago. But when a friend mentioned that cancer survivors who surf were needed to participate in the 15th annual Moores UCSD Cancer Center Luau and Longboard Invitational, Schmalenberger jumped at the opportunity.

The annual luau and surf event brings together some of the most respected men and women in surfing history with business leaders, scientists, local politicians and national celebrities. The summer event has become one of the leading surfing fundraisers, generating more than $3 million total in support for cancer research since its debut in 1994.