Cyrus Desai Charitable Foundation
Fighting Osteosarcoma, Together.
The Cyrus Desai Charitable Foundation is dedicated to conquering osteosarcoma. We support innovative research to better understand the disease and find a cure, fund cutting-edge treatments, promote early detection awareness among physicians, families, and youth, and improve the quality of life for patients fighting this aggressive bone cancer. Hopefully one day no child will have to lose their life to this dreaded disease
Who We Are
About Cyrus Desai Charitable Foundation
Cyrus Desai was an energetic, high-achieving 18-year-old with a bright future ahead. A dedicated student, natural leader, and passionate athlete, he excelled academically, actively participated in DECA, FCCLA, and his ZAH youth group, while thriving in sports—particularly football—where his heart and toughness earned him respect from teammates. Just as he was about to begin college, Cyrus was diagnosed with osteosarcoma after months of knee pain. By the time the cancer in his femur was discovered, it had already spread to his lungs. He fought courageously for three years at MD Anderson Cancer Center but sadly lost his battle at the tender age of 21.
In honor of Cyrus’s vibrant spirit and brave journey, the Cyrus Desai Charitable Foundation was established with a clear mission: to support innovative research aimed at better understanding osteosarcoma and ultimately finding a cure, to fund cutting-edge treatments, to raise awareness among physicians, families, and adolescents about the critical importance of early detection, and to improve the quality of life for patients battling this aggressive bone cancer
No family should face osteosarcoma alone. The Cyrus Desai Charitable Foundation is here — every step of the way.
Mission Statement
In order to cope with our grief and to honor Cyrus’s memory, we established the Cyrus Desai Charitable Foundation (CDCF) our website www.cyrusdesaifoundation.org was created to raise awareness about osteosarcoma. Unfortunately, this pediatric cancer is often fatal and research dollars are limited.
Our Goals
Patient Support
To provide emotional support to patients and families from diagnosis through recovery.
Research Funding
To fund cutting-edge research into osteosarcoma treatments, early detection, and ultimately a cure.
Community Building
To connect survivors, families, and advocates to build a resilient, compassionate community.
Awareness & Advocacy
To raise awareness of osteosarcoma and advocate for increased research funding at every level.
Goals achieved so far
Educating Physicians on Early Detection
With the help of specialists from MD Anderson Cancer Center, CDCF organized two CME seminars in Houston for pediatricians and primary care physicians, focusing on osteosarcoma awareness and the critical importance of early diagnosis.
Supporting Future Leaders through Scholarships
CDCF funds an annual scholarship for outstanding college freshmen who demonstrate excellence in academics and community service.
Advancing Research through Fellowship
CDCF established a Post-Doctoral Fellowship at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Dr. Chunlei Jin, the inaugural fellow, conducted important research on the mechanisms of osteosarcoma metastasis. Chunlei Jin, Phd successfully completed his fellowship, his research earned him the young investigators award for sarcoma research.
Future Goals
We hope to create collaboration and Partnership with national and international communities, where physician and researchers that can share their work and experience to one day find a cure of the dreaded disease.
Understanding the Disease
What Is Osteosarcoma?
Osteosarcoma is a malignant bone tumor that originates in bone-forming cells (osteoblasts). It is the most common primary bone cancer, accounting for approximately 3% of all childhood cancers. While it can occur at any age, it most frequently affects children, teenagers, and young adults during periods of rapid bone growth.
The tumor most commonly develops in the long bones of the legs (near the knee) or arms. When detected early and treated aggressively, the 5-year survival rate is approximately 70%. However, if the cancer has spread to the lungs or other organs, survival rates drop significantly to 20–30%.
Early detection matters. Many osteosarcoma symptoms are initially mistaken for growing pains or sports injuries. If your child experiences persistent bone pain or swelling, consult a physician promptly.
Common Symptoms
Persistent bone or joint pain, especially at night
Limping or difficulty with movement
Swelling or a lump near a bone
Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
Bone fractures from minor injuries (pathological fractures)
Reduced range of motion in nearby joints
Treatment Approaches
Chemotherapy
Pre- and post-surgery chemotherapy to shrink tumors and eliminate cancer cells.
Surgery
Limb-sparing surgery or, in some cases, amputation to remove the tumor.
Targeted Therapy
Emerging treatments targeting specific molecular pathways in osteosarcoma cells.
Voices of Strength
Patient Stories
Behind every statistic is a person with a story of courage, resilience, and hope. These are some of theirs.
You Are Not Alone
Join thousands of patients, survivors, and families who have found strength, support, and community through the Foundation.
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