Honoring Dr. Vilma Yuzbasiyan-Gurkan

This year, the Berner-Garde Foundation and the entire Bernese Community
experienced a profound loss. It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Dr.
Vilma Yuzbasiyan-Gurkan, a cherished friend, brilliant scientist and tireless advocate of
Bernese Mountain Dogs. Her warmth, generosity and dedication will be deeply missed.
Since 2006, Dr Vilma led the Bernese Mountain Dog DNA and Tissue Repository at
Michigan State University as Director and under her expert guidance, we collected DNA
samples from over 4,000 BMDs. Her mentorship and deep care for the breed aided
understanding of the health challenges they face, and her legacy continues to shape
our steps forward.

Thanks to Dr. Vilma’s leadership, our DNA Repository has become an invaluable
resource for researchers globally. Samples from the Repository have supported
research published in ten peer-reviewed studies, advancing our understanding of critical
health issues in our breed.

In 2023, two ground-breaking projects led by Dr Vilma were launched: the second
phase of a clinical trial for Trametinib, a promising treatment for Histiocytic Sarcoma,
and the development of a liquid biopsy tool for early detection of this devastating
disease.

While Dr. Vilma’s absence leaves a significant void, we are heartened by the dedication
of the researchers she inspired. Many of her colleagues are committed to continuing the
work she began. The Berner-Garde Foundation is actively collaborating with them to
ensure her legacy lives on. We will keep you updated as these efforts progress. 
As we honor Dr. Vilma’s remarkable contributions, we invite you to support a special
fundraiser in her memory hosted by Joye Neff, one of our passionate community members. 

Your support will help us continue the vital research initiatives that meant so
much to Dr. Vilma and to all who love our breed.

As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we know we have been blessed with the support
and generosity of volunteers, donors and the Berner community. Together we’ve made
incredible progress in our mission to improve the health and longevity of Bernese
Mountain Dogs. As we look forward to the next 30 years, we do so with gratitude, hope
and a deep sense of purpose, honoring the legacy of those like Dr Vilma whose
dedication made this journey possible. We’re excited for what the next 30 years will
bring and invite you to continue this journey with us.

For the love of a Berner,
The Board of Berner-Garde Foundation