Mhari Saito Scholarship

Purpose: Support research and unite the caring power of people worldwide affected by stomach cancer. The scholarship is awarded to help medical students and other healthcare professionals in training attend significant educational or scientific conferences related to gastric cancer.

Background: Established in honor of Mhari Saito, who passed away from Stage 4 stomach cancer on April 15, 2013. Mhari was a former reporter who contributed significantly to NSFC's first Walk in 2012 and demonstrated passion for stomach cancer research and awareness.

Geographic Scope: Worldwide

Focus Areas:

• Gastric cancer research
• Medical education in stomach cancer field
• Healthcare professional development in oncology

Eligibility Requirements:

• Enrolled in an accredited medical school, residency, or fellowship program
• Particular interest in gastric cancer research
• Demonstrated genuine quest for knowledge in stomach cancer
• Must be a second, third, or fourth-year medical student enrolled full-time

Award Frequency: Awarded annually to one or more applicants

Application Process

Required Materials:

1. Completed scholarship application form (submit at least three months before the CME or accredited event)
2. Two reference letters from persons other than family members documenting:
   • Applicant's integrity
   • Interpersonal skills
   • Potential as a future physician
3. Letter on school letterhead from applicant's medical school verifying:
   • Full-time enrollment status
   • Year of study (2nd, 3rd, or 4th year)
4. One-page typed essay explicitly describing:
   • Why applicant has interest in gastric cancer
   • Expected contributions to healthcare profession with stomach cancer focus
5. Proof of conference attendance (within one month of attending)
6. Brief written summary of applicant's experience at the conference

Submission Timeline: Application must be submitted at least three months before the intended CME or accredited event