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August 27, 2024

Getting More Years with My Father is Why I Believe in ICRF

Daniel Kraus is Grateful for Gleevec, A Treatment Developed from ICRF-Funded Research

When Daniel Kraus was in eighth grade, his world turned upside down when his father Elden was diagnosed with chronic myeloid leukemia (CML). Soon after, his father started Gleevec, a treatment that was developed due to discoveries from ICRF-funded research. Gleevec extended his life and Kraus and his family are forever grateful for the extra time they had with him from this game-changing treatment.

“When my father first started Gleevec, I remember he had much more energy – his red blood cell count went up, he was able to play catch with me,” Kraus recalls. “It brought my father back to his old self as much as possible. Even if it wasn’t for as long as we wanted, we’re thankful for the extra years we had.” Kraus’ father later tried a few other medications, but they were not effective. He then received a stem cell transplant but was unable to recover after it and passed away in April 2010, while Kraus was in college.

Daniel with his father at his sister’s Bat Mitzvah when he was 5 years old.

Remembering My Father Elden Kraus

“My father was the best person I could ever hope for. He set a great example and was a role model.” Kraus said that his father would always tell everyone to take a mental picture because that picture will change, and certain people won’t be there, and to keep that picture in the forefront of your mind.

Daniel with his father in Zanesville, OH at his cousin’s farm, where they used to go every 4th of July.

Daniel with his dad and brother, Brian, at home on Daniel’s 16th birthday.

Paying it Forward with the Israel Cancer Research Fund

Kraus has a strong connection to Israel. He has visited several times and feels fortunate to have had those opportunities. As a current Visions Young Professionals Board member of the Chicago Chapter, he initially learned of ICRF through International Board of Trustee member Bruce Barron several years ago and felt it deserved his support and involvement. Kraus has been a sponsor of the annual ICRF Rolfe Golf Outing and regularly introduces friends and family to ICRF. His experience with his father and love of Israel fuels his interest in the mission. “We owe those extra years to the doctors and scientists that helped him, and others like him. Needless to say, this is a cause that I am deeply passionate about.”

Daniel in Israel at Roman ruins where games were held.

Daniel in Israel at Belvoir Castle looking at Jordan.

For Daniel, this photo evokes a vivid memory. “We were looking at the Kinneret and speaking about heroes, including our personal heroes. Right after the discussion, I called my dad and told him he was my hero. It was a quick conversation, but meaningful nonetheless. I’m thankful I was able to have a friend capture this moment so I can remember it for the rest of my life.” 

Gleevec – Did You Know?

Gleevec® was the first drug on the market to directly target the cancer-causing cells in CML while leaving healthy cells alone. Gleevec changed the course of this once fatal disease, allowing people to live longer and turning CML into a manageable condition. Gleevec was developed based on the research of ICRF-funded scientists. Be on the lookout for more coming soon about the science behind Gleevec and the Israeli researchers who played a critical role in its development.

Another Gleevec Story

Watch this video with cancer survivor Sam Fields, who talks about the difference Gleevec made in his life.

In honor of Daniel’s story and of all those impacted by cancer, we hope you’ll consider supporting ICRF today.

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