The mission of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation is to lead the fight against cancer with courage, strength, and grit.

Our History is His Story

John Wayne beat lung cancer in 1964. He died 15 years later after a struggle with cancer of the stomach. During this difficult period, he became passionate about helping others fight this terrible disease.

To honor his memory, his family created the John Wayne Cancer Foundation in 1985. The mission of the John Wayne Cancer Foundation is to lead the fight against cancer with courage, strength and grit. John Wayne Cancer Foundation funds novel and innovative programs that improve cancer patients' outcomes and save lives through research, education, awareness and support.

OUR PROGRAMS

Making an impact to cure cancer and improve patient outcomes

RESEARCH

The John Wayne Cancer Foundation provides funding for multidisciplinary basic, clinical and translational research on many complex cancer problems.

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John Wayne ALUMNI FELLOW

Meet the amazing minds that make up the esteemed John Wayne Alumni Fellows

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John Wayne ALUMNI FELLOW

Meet the amazing minds that make up the esteemed John Wayne Alumni Fellows

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BLOCK THE BLAZE

Block the Blaze is youth education program around skin cancer protection and prevention! 

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WE FIGHT CANCER WITH GRIT

Support the John Wayne Cancer Foundation today!

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GET INVOLVED!

Our innovative fundraising programs make it easy