developed, and as far as the war on cancer … yes, I believe it can be a game changer,” said Dr. Shoo. “If we can target free radicals in the body to attack these cells—these cancer cells as they form tumors—then not only can we stop cancer, but think about other applications like treating the plaque that’s inside the brains of Alzheimer’s patients. The thought is, there are endless possibilities inside the body. Sentries patrolling, looking for abnormalities— things that make our body weak that can be repaired. It’s an extraordinary, exciting time to be in medicine.”
The voiceover returned.
“The thought of nanotechnology being used in this type of treatment for diseases is entering a new dimension. According to Dr. Shoo, there is no question the technology can work. Only funding stands in the way.”
The program slipped into a commercial break.
“Nanorobots?” Nick questioned. “Now that’s thinking outside the box.” He reached for his phone and called Shelly to let her know how the pitch to the Board went and about the blessing he received—along with a hard time—from Marie.
“I hope I didn’t catch you in the middle of something,” Nick said as Shelly answered the phone. “I couldn’t find you after the presentation.”
“It’s been a crazy day. I just finished some fine dining in the hospital cafeteria.”
“You know, my dad thinks that food causes cancer.” “Doubt that. So what happened today? How did it go?” “Green light all around.”
“That’s great!”
“Members of the Board of Directors had their concerns, but when I told them Doc Wall was on board, they said fine. Then we had a private conversation with Marie, and she agreed the proposal was interesting. Wall’s name is powerful, and since he gave the okay and there is no downside, she said to move forward. Now I have to make a pitch to hundreds of strangers at a convention and just ask them for a billion dollars.”
“Is that all?” She giggled. “I can tell how passionate you are
about this project, and I know they’ll see it too. You will do great.” “Ever heard of nanotechnology?”
“What?”