The Johnson Center for Basic Cancer Research strives to inform the public about cancer, risk reduction, and cancer research at K-State.

Tours and presentations

We offer tours and give off-site presentations about the center and K-State cancer research. Community groups interested in such a tour/presentation, should call 785-532-6705 or email Marcia to make arrangements.

Cancer education presentations

Preventing cancer is just as important as curing it. We offer presentations about cancer, in general, as well as breast cancer, colorectal cancer, secondhand smoke, and more. Call or email Marcia to arrange a presentation at your location or the center.

A Day With Dr. Waddle

A Day With Dr. Waddle is an activity book written especially for children by center staff in 1988. It is a helpful tool for parents and other caring adults to use to introduce children to the difficult subject of cancer in an informative yet sensitive manner. Dr. Waddle is a duck who happens to be a scientist and welcomes children into his laboratory for a day. He teaches them about science, microscopes, normal cells, misbehaved cancer cells, and good health habits to follow. The Spanish version, Un Día Con el Dr. Waddle, was written in order to teach Dr. Waddle’s important lesson to children whose first language is Spanish.

Community engagement

Raising awareness about cancer through local events, collaborations and other activities is an important part of our effort to serve the community and promote healthy living.

Among other community activities, the center is proud to be involved with the Cancer Resource Network of Manhattan. It is a group of cancer survivors, nurses and other professionals who strive to know and inform each other and the community about local, cancer-related resources and activities, and address needs where possible. This group created the below resources, which the center prints, stores and distributes. Contact Marcia for a free copy of either, or download the Cancer Resources guide by clicking the link below.

When a Friend Has Cancer booklet offers ways to help and interact with loved ones facing cancer.

Cancer Resources of Manhattan (PDF) guide lists cancer-related resources in the Manhattan and Junction City area.

George S. Bascom Memorial Workshop Series

The George S. Bascom Memorial Workshop Series on Current Issues in Clinical Medicine was started in 1996. Distinguished experts come to K-State to present to faculty, students, medical care providers, and the general public about challenges faced in clinical medicine and research.

Our most recent Bascom Lecture was presented by Barbara Atkinson, MD, Executive Vice Chancellor, KU Medical Center, and Executive Dean, KU School of Medicine. She presented “The Future of Cancer Research and Treatment in Kansas” on Tue., Sept. 28, 2010.

Cancer Information Center

The Cancer Information Center is a community service provided by the Johnson Cancer Center to help individuals inform themselves about cancers and cancer-related issues. In addition to some written materials, an online computer (with printer) is available for conducting internet research—with staff assistance, if desired. There are two visitor parking spaces outside the center and guests are always welcome during office hours.

Fundraising events

Fundraising events, such as the Tough Enough to Wear Pink Rodeo, presented by the Kaw Valley Rodeo Association, and the Rob Regier Memorial Golf Tournament, sponsored by Grand Mère Development, Manhattan, Kansas, and the Sunny 102.5 FM Wildcat Challenge, are held throughout the year to support and advance current research and education programs at K-State.

These fundraising efforts are coordinated by individuals, organizations, and businesses on behalf of the Center. We are thankful for their generosity and enthusiasm.

Special friends of the center

K-State Cancer Fighters

This K-State student organization, initiated in fall 2011, serves as ambassadors, fund raisers and volunteers for our center.

Mason’s Wish

Mason’s Wish is the fundraising campaign of 12 year-old Mason Wolfe whose father has been battling cancer since 2007. She sells candles and other items to raise money for the Johnson cancer research center. In 2009, she donated $11,000! And she’s still working to raise more, with hope in a cure! Recently, she won a Barnum Award, recognizing her for her community service and earning her $1,000 to invest in future projects. Read a story about her here.. And here’s a video about her winning the Denver Channel 7 Everyday Hero Award.

Rob Regier Memorial Golf Tournament

This benefit golf tournament is held annually in memory of Rob Regier, a K-State alumnus in pre-dentistry whose life was lost to cancer. Started in 1998 in Kansas City by a group of his fraternity brothers, the tournament is now hosted by Rob’s family at beautiful Colbert Hills in Manhattan. The Regiers work hard to coordinate the tournament and raise money for K-State cancer research and education.