Leukemia and Lymphoma Society
Image: lls.org
An operational consultant with Alegria Specialty Pharmacy for the past five years, Ellen Scharaga helps the New York pharmacy develop specialty medications for chronic conditions such as HIV, arthritis, and Hepatitis C. Outside of work, Ellen Scharaga supports charitable organizations such as the Alzheimer’s Association and the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.
The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) raises money for life-saving blood cancer research through programs such as Dog of the Year, a 4-week fundraising competition. The dog who brings in the most money during the fundraiser is awarded the Dog of the Year title. One of the primary motivators of this program is the connection between human and canine blood cancers.
Each year, more than a million dogs are treated for cancer, and lymphoma is the most common diagnosis. Cornell University’s College of Veterinary Medicine is utilizing a $2 million LLS research grant to study canine lymphoma. Because dogs and humans share 85% of the same genetic material and typically respond similarly to cancer treatment, such research can improve treatment options for both dogs and people. For more information about Dog of the Year and LLS’s fundraising efforts, visit www.lls.org.
Ellen Scharaga 