"The Email That Changed Everything" - Dusty Hurley

"I was diagnosed with neuroendocrine tumors in 2022. I had never heard of this disease before, and I lived in a state without a single NET specialist. I was scared and unsure of what to do next. I am so thankful that I quickly reached out to the Neuroendocrine Cancer Foundation (NCF). One of the first NCF emails I received said, 'You are not alone. We are here to help.' In the midst of uncertainty and fear, they offered hope.

From the very beginning, NCF connected me with someone who understood this disease in a way that my friends and family simply could not. That early support helped steady me when everything felt confusing. As time went on, those first conversations grew into friendships that have stayed with me. I still look back and cannot believe how much this community has meant to me. This disease, which felt so isolating at first, has offered me one of the richest experiences of community I’ve ever encountered.

One of the most important things NCF has given me is an understanding of my disease and the confidence to take part in my own care. Those early months were filled with new tests, unfamiliar terms, and decisions that felt incredibly heavy. The education I received helped me walk into appointments prepared instead of afraid. It changed how I spoke with my doctors and how I saw myself in this process. Those early days were so full of confusion, but now I am equipped with knowledge thanks to the countless educational resources NCF provides.

Because of NCF, I no longer feel powerless in the face of this disease. I can advocate for myself and for others. I have shared my story, participated in research, been proactive in my care, and supported newly diagnosed patients with a deep sense of purpose and empowerment.

None of this happens by accident. It exists because people like me—and like you— choose to support this organization because we believe that patients deserve guidance, clarity, encouragement, and connection. Every resource I used and every moment of understanding I gained came from someone who cared enough to give. Your support is transformative in the lives of neuroendocrine cancer patients who benefit from the wide range of programs and resources NCF provides to support people living well with neuroendocrine cancer."

"Your generosity makes all of this possible. In 2026, an estimated 12,000 to 23,000 people in the United States will be diagnosed with neuroendocrine cancer. You help ensure that the next person who hears a diagnosis of "neuroendocrine tumor" does not have to navigate this disease alone. 

Thank you for making a difference in my life and in the lives of so many others."

With Deep Gratitude, 

Dusty Hurley 

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Dusty Hurley is wife to a charming Irishman; mom to two loving, fun, and bright elementary-aged daughters; and the favorite human of two fluffy, playful dogs. Her professional background includes ministry, nonprofit and government leadership, and grant writing. She enjoys spending time with friends and family…bonus points if it can be around a campfire or traveling to somewhere new. Diagnosed with a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor (pNET) in 2022, Dusty brings faith, optimism, and determination to her roles as both patient and advocate. She’s passionate about helping others navigate NET with clarity, courage, and hope. Watch Dusty on a recent patient panel: "Living With NET: A Patient Perspective."

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