Shining the Light on
Esophageal Cancer

Bringing hope, healing, and awareness to every life touched.

Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation
Applauds a Daughter’s Love and Courage

Some stories resonate because they come from love and conviction. This is one of them. Ashley Castanio-Gervasi honored her late father, Frank, by stepping onto the field at a New York Jets game and taking a field-goal kick in his memory. In doing so, she reminded everyone watching that grief can coexist with strength—and that legacy lives through action. Her family’s journey also reflects the long-standing mission of the Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation (FightEC), which they have supported for years in Frank’s honor.

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Our Mission

At the Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation (ECEF), our mission is to bring light, knowledge, and hope to all those affected by esophageal cancer. We are committed to:

Raising Awareness & Educating

Empowering the public and medical community with knowledge about this often-overlooked disease — because awareness is the first step toward prevention and early detection.

Supporting Every Step of the Journey

Walking beside patients and their families, offering compassion, guidance, and a sense of community through every stage of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery.

Advancing Life-Saving Research

Funding and promoting innovative research dedicated to developing an early warning test — bringing us closer to earlier diagnosis, better outcomes, and brighter futures.

Together, we shine a light on esophageal cancer — transforming awareness into action, and action into hope.

Early awareness can change outcomes. Here are the basics.

About Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal cancer begins in the esophagus—the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach. Early stages can be silent, which is why awareness of symptoms and risk factors matters. With informed screening, timely care, and community support, more people can find answers sooner and face treatment with confidence. Learn the signs, talk to your doctor, and help us shine a light on early detection. [more]

What It Is

Esophageal cancer develops in the lining of the esophagus — the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach.

It often begins silently, with few symptoms in its early stages, making early detection essential for survival.

Who It Affects

Most people diagnosed are over the age of 55, and men are four times more likely to develop the disease than women.

However, anyone with chronic acid reflux, smoking, or heavy alcohol use can be at risk. Awareness helps everyone.

Why Awareness Matters

Each year, more than 20,000 people in the U.S. are diagnosed with esophageal cancer — often too late for effective treatment.

By spreading knowledge and promoting early screening, we can save lives and bring hope to families everywhere.

President’s Message

Bart Frazzitta, Founder & President

In 2002, two years after surviving an esophagectomy, I founded the Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation to bring hope, guidance, and education to those touched by this disease. What began as a personal mission has grown into a nationwide community of patients, families, and caregivers united by strength and compassion. Through our support groups, educational videos, and partnerships with leading physicians, we help people navigate diagnosis and recovery with clarity and confidence. Every story we share and every connection we make reminds us that awareness saves lives. Together, we continue to shine a light on esophageal cancer—empowering patients, inspiring hope, and advancing the search for earlier detection and better outcomes.

Read Full Message →

Are you at risk?

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Patient Stories / Voices of Hope

Every journey through esophageal cancer is unique — filled with courage, resilience, and moments of light in the darkness.

At the Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation (ECEF), we honor the voices of patients, survivors, and families who remind us why awareness and compassion matter.

You have created a foundation Bart that has helped thousands, including myself. It is my pleasure to help support that initiative.

Alan

Maria’s persistent heartburn turned out to be more serious than she expected — but thanks to early screening, her cancer was found in time. Her message: “Listen to your body. Early detection saved my life.

Maria’s Story of Early Detection

Thank you for eleven years of kindness and guidance. Frank and I are grateful for all we’ve learned. We pray the Lord continues to help those facing esophageal cancer. Much love.

Hillary and Frank

Research & Innovation

At the Esophageal Cancer Education Foundation (ECEF), we’re committed to advancing science that saves lives. Our focus is on developing an early warning test for esophageal cancer, improving early detection, and enhancing recovery for survivors. Through partnerships with leading researchers and medical institutions, we turn hope into progress — bringing us closer to a future where this disease is found early and treated effectively.

How You Can Help

Every act of support brings us closer to early detection, better treatment, and more lives saved. Whether you give time, resources, or your voice — you can make a real difference.

Volunteer

Join our community events or patient support programs and help bring awareness to your local area.

Join the Fight →

Fundraise

Create your own campaign or join one of ours to raise funds for research and education.

Start Fundraising →

Partner with Us

Businesses, hospitals, and community organizations can join us in advancing awareness and research.

Become a Partner →

Shining the Light on Esophageal Cancer