CRYPTIC MASONS MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION
C.M.M.R.F.
Philanthropy of Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of the State of Missouri,
and the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons, International.
C.M.M.R.F. CRYPTIC MASONS MEDICAL RESEARCH FOUNDATION
Philanthropy of Grand Council of Cryptic Masons of the State of Missouri, and the General Grand Council of Cryptic Masons, International.
All money collected in used to research: Heart Disease, Diabetes, Blindness, Regenerative Medicine, Leg Circulation, Wound Healing, Arthritis, Stroke and more…
THE PROBLEM
Arteriosclerosis is a disease affecting the blood vessels which carry blood from the heart to all parts of the body. It is commonly called “hardening of the arteries”, and is a process which results in the narrowing of these vessels. It is gradually progressive, and eventually interferes with the flow of blood. When an artery supplying the muscle of the heart is affected severely in this manner, it results in a heart attack. When a major artery supplying the brain is involved it results in a stroke; if the large artery of the leg is greatly narrowed by this process, gangrene occurs (the tissue dies) and the leg often has to be amputated, as the only method of satisfactory treatment.
THE WORK OF CRYPTIC MASONS
Freemasonry seeks to improve the community by improving the individual. Therefore, Councils of Cryptic Masons are found working with Lodges, Chapters, and Commanders, giving more opportunities to improve one’s skills in leadership, public speaking, interpersonal relationships, and administration. This empowers Masons to become better leaders in their career, church, and community. Councils also work with these and other Masonic groups in community service projects to demonstrate Masonic teachings as a way of life.
The General Grand Council established the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation to give Cryptic Masons an opportunity to turn Masonic philosophy into a living practice. Issues like diabetes, stroke, poor circulation, heart failure, wound healing, and many other diseases share the common denominator of blood vessels, so vascular research is a vital part of treating many different kinds of illnesses. Supporting the ICVBM’s research has the potential to help millions of people.
THE INDIANA CENTER FOR VASCULAR BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE
The Indian Center for Vascular Biology and Medicine is committed to researching the mechanisms of vascular wellness and disease, and to developing leading-edge medical therapies to improve the care of patients with vascular problems.
The ICVBM includes more than 40 investigators from a range of basic and clinical disciplines, and approaches vascular research and development from a highly cross-disciplinary perspective. This faculty, as well as the staff and students, work together as a team to complete the primary mission of rapid development and clinical application of new interdisciplinary research in vascular biology. The ICVBM emphasizes reaching patients as quickly as possible so that they can benefit from ongoing developments of gene, molecular, cell- and device-based therapies.
Since 1986, CMMRF has been working with Indiana University & ICVBM. The foundation funds the research & since its inception has contributed more than $4,500,000 to ICVBM.
All monies sent to the ICVBM is used to research:
- Heart Disease
- Diabetes
- Blindness
- Regenerative Medicine
- Leg Circulation
- Wound Healing
- Arthritis
- Stroke
- and more…
RESEARCH FOCUSES
- Leading-edge medical therapies have resulted in research centered on cell biology.
- Research of atherosclerosis has shown that adult stem cells contribute to tissue support, muscle repair, and regrowing blood vessels and nerve tissue.
- Research on growing new blood vessels in critical limb ischemia, using bone marrow derived mono-nuclear cells and adipose tissue derived stem cells.
- Success with adipose stem cells is opening doors for potential therapies in the area of stroke, diabetes, retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy, wound healing, emphysema COPD,, hemophilia, ED, arthritis, and more!
- Treatments in development include: acute lung injury/acute respiratory distress syndrome, pancreatitis, and abdominal aortic aneurysms.
WHY HELP OUR MISSION?
This research benefits everyone: current patients and the generations to come. Your generosity will help the ICVBM maintain its robust programs and to pursue new ideas and cures. Here is just one of the many programs underway at the ICVBM:
A ‘first of its kind’, FDA-approved study examining the regenerative powers of the adult stem cells found in body fat. Funded by the U.S. Dept. of Defense and CMMRF, the study will test the use of adult stem cells in 20 patients who have poor blood circulation in their lower legs and have been told that their only option is amputation. The study will determine if the cells, which come from the donors, can restore leg function and help that person to save their own limbs.
An important note: This approach was conceived more than 12 years ago at the ICVBM. The investigators at IU Health conducted pre-clinical studies that demonstrated how adult stem cells from body fat (adipose tissue) could be used to restore circulation in the lower limbs. The team, working with Tissue Genesis Inc., is testing the effectiveness of this therapy on humans.
BRUCE HARMON HUNT
1913 – 1995
GRAND COUNCIL CHARITY ENDOWNMENT FUND, (C.E.F.)
A Memorial to Most Illustrious Companion Bruce Harmon Hunt
Grand Master 1951-1952 – Grand Master of Masons in Missouri 1960-1961
The Grand Council Charity Endowment Fund Committee was established by appointment of Most Illustrious Companion Lawrence R. Albright II, newly installed Grand Master at the 128th Annual Assembly of the Grand Council of Cryptic Masons, April 30, 1993 in Cape Girardeau.
Its purpose is endowing a fund to provide income for disbursement by the Grand Master for charitable purposes. Contributions have been annually made to the Cryptic Masons Medical Research Foundation (CMMRF), the International Order of DeMolay, the International Order of Job’s Daughters, the International Order of Rainbow for Girls and other worthy charities as designated by the sitting Grand Master. These funds have annually totaled $1000.00 and come from an impressed account for charity in the Grand Council budget.
The first gift in establishing the fund was from Zabud Council No. 25, R. & S.M., Springfield, in honor of its member, Grand Master Lawrence R. Albright II. At the request of MIC Lawrence R. Albright II, the Charity Endowment Fund was made a Memorial to the late MIC Bruce Harmon Hunt. By unanimous consent of the Grand Officers and the ratification of the 133rd Annual Assembly, May 8, 1998, the fund has become a living memorial to a great Missouri Freemason.
With attainment of the Level-One goal of $50,000.00 in the endowment, the Grand Council can annually make significant contributions to charity. Companions, the Level-Two goal is $100,000.00. With your help, we can do it!
If in Missouri, send your C.E.F. contributions to your Council Recorder. Otherwise, send your C.E.F. contributions to the address at the bottom of this page.