When successful lawyer Wendy Chaite's daughter was born with systemic lymphatic disease and lymphedema, she searched for medical and scientific answers and treatment. She was shocked and frustrated by the lack of information and knowledge. Wendy knew that without aggressive research into the lymphatic system, there could be no progress in clinical care. Her response to the situation was the formation of the Lymphatic Research Foundation (LRF), an internationally recognized, not-for-profit organization with the goal of promoting significant advances in research to find effective treatments and ultimately a cure.

Science now knows that the lymphatic system impacts virtually every function of the human body in health and illness. Despite this, the lymphatics have been historically neglected in both medical school curricula and research institutions. Inadequate methods to diagnose lymphatic disorders and minimally effective therapies are available, with little or no attention paid to the needs of those afflicted by these diseases.

LRF has enjoyed continuous growth and impressive accomplishments both in this country and internationally. LRF has significantly promoted the field of lymphatic research that promises breakthroughs in therapeutic treatments and cures not only for lymphatic disease, lymphedema, and related disorders, but for a multitude of other diseases.

As a result of LRF's successful collaborations with researchers and its relationship with the National Institutes of Health, the Foundation is recognized as a key player in promoting lymphatic research. LRF supporters can feel great pride and satisfaction to know that their Foundation is featured in a current NIH publication, "From Public Advocacy to Research Priorities". LRF is creating the infrastructure necessary to attract the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.

It is critically important to continue this successful momentum. Science has opened a new frontier in lymphatic research: lymphagiogenesis, which is the formation of new lymphatic vessels to repair or replace damaged or deficient lymphatics in the body. This promises life enhancing changes for those suffering from lymphatic disorders. Lymphagiogenesis has also opened a new dimension in cancer research and how cancer spreads through the body. Clearly, promoting lymphatic research promises a healthier future and a better quality of life for millions of people worldwide.