Serving as the heartbeat of The V Foundation for Cancer Research, formed by ESPN and Jim Valvano in 1993, his words throughout the ESPY speech inspire millions to get involved. After being diagnosed with cancer at the young age of 46, Jim dreamed of finding cures for cancer. As a cancer patient, Jim recognized the need to invest in young physicians and scientists to help establish their careers. Addressing the need to help early-career cancer investigators develop into promising research talents was the first goal of The Foundation. The V Scholar concept was developed in 1994 to address that need. Today, this highly respected award is eagerly sought by young physicians and scientists at the nation's leading cancer centers. In 2001, eight years after his death, The V Foundation announced its Translational Research Grants, designed to accelerate laboratory findings with the goal of benefiting patients more quickly. The V Foundation has awarded more than $130 million to more than 120 facilities nationwide and proudly awards 100% of direct cash donations to cancer research and related programs. Due to generous donors, The Foundation has an endowment that covers administrative expenses. The V Foundation has a strong presence in the scientific community, and it is guided by an elite, all-volunteer Scientific Advisory Committee, that recommends the research projects funded. The Committee is comprised of top physicians and research scientists from prominent universities and cancer centers throughout the country. Mr. Geleerd has been a Chicago Group Board Member since 2012. Along with The Guy D. Geleerd Foundation founders, James AJake@ Geleerd, Julie Geleerd Moss and their mother, Judith Geleerd, the Geleerd Family through its Foundation has helped raise over a half million dollars for lung cancer research.