Investing in the Architects of Medicine
Global challenges require global solutions. Because cancer knows no borders, your research investments don’t either. As the recipient of a Conquer Cancer grant, Dr. Thomas Odeny is leading the charge against rare, virus-associated cancers, developing innovative treatments that benefit patients in our own backyard and across the globe in East Africa.
On World Cancer Research Day (September 24, 2025), Dr. Odeny shared his story, highlighting how support from Conquer Cancer allowed him to bridge the gap between resource-limited settings and cutting-edge discovery.
Dr. Odeny focuses his research on viral oncology, specifically rare diseases like Kaposi sarcoma. This cancer is most common in sub-Saharan Africa and among people living with HIV or AIDS. Without international collaboration, these rare diseases are difficult to study; there simply aren't enough domestic cases to complete clinical trials quickly.
“Your support provided me a bridge so that I could start this work without delay. It’s urgent work... and this funding was helpful for us to begin closing those gaps quickly.”
- Dr. Thomas Odeny, Oncologist and Researcher
Dr. Odeny’s drive is personal. Having lost his brother to the HIV epidemic in Kenya, he saw how research funding transformed a terminal disease into a livable reality. Today, he carries that hope into his clinic, fueled by the resources you provide. Learn more about Dr. Odeny and his work.