But I know there are many people who are not as fortunate as I am. That is why the Mario Lemieux Foundation continues to be important to me, and why I devote time to raising funds for the Foundation, so we can continue to award grants for cancer research and other worthy causes.

Since I created the Lemieux Foundation in 1993, we have awarded several grants, including a five million dollar gift to UPMC Health System to establish the Mario Lemieux Centers for Patient Care and Research.

I would like to thank the Foundation's Board of Directors for handling the basic administration of the Lemieux Foundation, and for its guidance and dedication. The Lemieux Foundation is not a short-term project, but a life-long opportunity for me to give hope to patients and families facing what I know is a frightening battle.

I hope you will decide to assist the Lemieux Foundation now and in the future. There are many opportunities for you to participate, and your contributions will help us move ever closer to our ultimate goal: a cure for cancer.

Sincerely,