Near-infrared light is everywhere, but our eyes can’t see it. Even so, near-infrared light is special because it can penetrate several millimeters into the body, whereas the visible light we’re all used to just bounces off the surface. Because of this feature, near-infrared light has the potential to revolutionize surgery by giving physicians, veterinarians, and surgeons the ability to see tumors, nerves, lymph nodes, and other structures that now remain hidden.
The FLARE Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to making near-infrared light-based technology available to as many patients as possible worldwide. Our model is based on open-source information exchange, education, and research, all designed to maximize societal impact. Some research reagents are available for free so new ideas can be tested quickly. Others can be purchased on our Exchange, with proceeds funding our other charitable activities. Commercial partners are free to innovate on the technology platform.
Our ultimate goal is to create a worldwide community of patients, scientists, and doctors, all working together to get the most societal value out of new medical technology. FLARE is not about any single technology. Rather, we aim to shine a light down a new path.
We imagine a day when cancer surgery is more effective and causes fewer complications. We imagine a day when low-cost versions of technology are used in places around the world that would never otherwise have the opportunity. We imagine a day when scientists exchange both positive and negative results to speed up what is otherwise a slow process for improvement.
If you share any of these goals, then please help us out. Cash donations go a long way, but so too does a donation of your time or talent. Log into the Knowledge Bank and educate yourself about the possibilities. If you’re a scientist, volunteer to be an editor of one of our resources, or use our resources to test new ideas. If you’re a patient, learn about the clinical trials being conducted around the world that could impact your care. Our belief is that progress will be a lot faster if we all work together.
Please contact us if you have any questions or ideas, and enjoy your exploration of our website.