By Max Phillips (writing as Fifi LaBouche) • Originally published on FifiLaBouche.com
Jack Andraka is a special young man. No, not because he’s gay — which he is open about — but because of his creative new approach to testing for pancreatic cancer.
At just 15 years old he was able to do what scientists twice his age (or older) have not been able to do to date — develop a test to detect pancreatic cancer early enough to make a real difference in treatment.
The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network website tells us that, “there is no standard diagnostic test for pancreatic cancer.” Jack’s research and new testing method could change all that.
He’s become an overnight sensation, gaining an audience with the likes of President Obama and giving talks at institutions all over the world. And in a surprising turn of events, he’s won the International Giuseppe Sciacca Award, an award the Vatican gives out to recognize youth who are outstanding in their field. As Jack puts it, “It’s really amazing to be recognized by the Vatican, especially as a gay scientist. I mean this would be unheard of just a few years ago.”
Jack, you are the reason we love gay nerds.
Listen to his interview with WBAL about his trip to the Vatican, and watch the profile CBS’s 60 Minutes did on him last month.