The seed idea for YSCards began in 2006 when watercolor artist Yvette Strauss was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and her eldest grandson was working on a school project. It was her wish that her paintings be used to make a difference in the fight against the disease. In early 2007, she and her daughter began to design this website together, and we believe it reflects an elegance and radiance which speaks about her work as well as the person she was. An avid letter writer, she was enthusiastic about the endeavor though she did not live to see it launched in August, 2007.

YSCards has a single vision: to fund pancreatic cancer research. And yet, as the assortments change with the seasons, it is also clear that a secondary, though not incidental, aspect of this effort includes transmitting beauty and hope into the world. This, naturally, allows those who knew Yvette Strauss to celebrate her and feel close to her. Her paintings are lovely and accessible. For those who meet her only through this website, you will encounter her vivacity and optimism as you view her work.

Proudly, we report that at the end of 2007, we were able to make contributions to the Lustgarten Foundation and The Pancreas Center at Columbia Presbyterian Hospital in New York as result of card sales.