A Message From the Director
As we reflect upon another year gone by, all of us at the Asian Liver Center are filled with joy and gratitude for the countless friends in the community who help us realize our vision each day. Since its founding in 1996, the Asian Liver Center (ALC) has become a national and international leader in the fight against hepatitis B and liver cancer. With the help of a strong network of hundreds of community organizations, government and private agencies, state and federal legislators, and private corporations and foundations, the ALC has forged new ground in outreach, education, advocacy, and research for the global eradication of hepatitis B and liver cancer.

The ALC prides itself on being a center of many firsts, and 2005 is no exception. Our collaborations with policymakers and Congressman Mike Honda (15th District of California) have resulted in the introduction of the first ever HBV Bill before Congress, as well as progressive changes in national immunization guidelines. LIVERight, our first 5k run/walk, was also a victory in uniting the diverse San Francisco community on behalf of hepatitis B and liver cancer awareness. The completion of our "3 for Life" pilot program with the San Francisco Department of Public Health in September signals yet another innovative success, having tested and vaccinated over 1,200 people. Through the tireless efforts of passionate staff, interns, and volunteers, "3 for Life" stands as a sustainable model that is now being emulated across California and beyond.

Internationally, our work has placed a unique emphasis on HBV education to improve immunization practices in China. Our ground-breaking efforts have provided free vaccinations for over 100,000 students, with plans for more in the coming year.

The New Year marks the 10th Anniversary of the Asian Liver Center, as well as another year for even more firsts. As we celebrate this milestone in our organization's history, we look back with pride and thanks for a rich past while continuing to create new landmarks in outreach and education.

From the depths of our hearts, we thank all of you for your support along the way. With your faithful help in promoting our many programs, we move closer to our ultimate goal of eliminating hepatitis B and liver cancer worldwide.

From our ALC family to yours, warmest wishes for peace and prosperity in the New Year!

Sincerely,
Samuel So, MD, FACS
Director, Asian Liver Center
Director, Liver Cancer Program
The Lui Hac Minh Professor of Surgery
Stanford University School of Medicine


- Copyright 2005 Asian Liver Center at Stanford University -