More than 15 years ago, I became active in cancer care and prevention following the death of a close friend from cancer at a tragically young age. I made a commitment to her and her family that I would focus my philanthropic efforts on conquering this terrible disease. My efforts led me to Dr. Harold Freeman. I was humbled by his eloquence, compassion and belief that we can beat this disease. I was inspired by his passion for reaching out to those who most need help, regardless of their financial status. Cancer is often a curable disease when it is caught early. Dr. Freeman described how he saw patients when their cancer was too advanced to be treated. If only they had been diagnosed earlier, they could have lived longer and shared more time with their families. That first conversation with Dr. Freeman inspired me to create the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention, which was founded 6 years ago in Harlem to directly serve your community. I am proud of the Ralph Lauren Center, the people who fight cancer every day, and the community the center serves. There are wonderful doctors here and patient navigators who help make treatment accessible, affordable and personal. I remember growing up in the Bronx, when health care was not readily available, and seared in my memory is one particular moment when my mother had a health scare and panicked about where she could turn for help. I hope that the Ralph Lauren Center answers that question. The center serves anyone who walks through its door. So please get screened and encourage others as well. We can save lives. One of them could be yours. Sincerely, Ralph Lauren September 2008