CRAVAT Foundation
Research and Treatment for Rare Vascular Tumors
Mission
The Center for Research and Analysis of VAscular Tumors (CRAVAT) is an IRS approved 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization that raises funds to increase awareness of and harness research to address rare vascular tumors. CRAVAT works with patients, clinicians and scientists to develop effective treatments for Hemangioendothelioma, Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma (EHE) and other vascular tumors.
Current goals
Establish tissue culture and animal models for hemangioendothelioma
Test likely candidate treatments using these models
Create a tissue bank of vascular tumors and control tissues
Identify mutations or cell signaling derangments that underly the transformation of endothelial cells
Test the possible association of Bartonella or other infections with hemangioendothelioma.
History
CRAVAT began like many rare disease organizations, from the urgency of patients and their families who find there is little clinical research and support for their rare disease. To read about Cynthia Pollak, who started HEARD (Hemangioendothelioma, Epithelioid Hemangioendothelioma And Related Disorders) after her son was diagnosed with multiple tumors of this rare vascular cancer, CLICK HERE.
To read about Dr. Guy Weinberg, a professor of Anesthesiology at the University of Illinois, whose family joined the fight after they learned that Guy's 13 year old son had a large liver tumor that was later identified as EHE, CLICK HERE.
Science
Vascular tumors are cancers of vessels, particularly blood vessels, accounting for a fraction of 1% of all cancers. For more science info, CLICK HERE.
CRAVAT will support research with scientists at major academic institutions to identify the causes and create treatments for vascular tumors, particularly the hemangioendotheliomas.
How can I help?
Direct patients, funders, scientists and clinicians to contact us at cravat@4cures.org
Make a donation in any amount using Google Checkout below
Spread the word about these rare but potentially deadly diseases
CRAVAT is an open source organization welcoming and reviewing all ideas regarding potential causes and treatments of vascular tumors.
Donate to CRAVAT:
Or send a check to:
CRAVAT Foundation
c/o Partnership for Cures
70 W Madison Street, Suite 1500
Chicago, IL 60602
