In this #ISSNAFStory, Barbara Rosario interviews Professor Riccardo Dalla-Favera, the recipient of the ISSNAF Lifetime Achievement Award. Dr. Dalla-Favera is a leading figure in cancer genetics, known for his groundbreaking research on lymphomas and leukemias. Trained as an oncologist in Milan, Dalla-Favera was instrumental in the 1970s' revolution in cancer biology, helping to clone the first human oncogenes. His research revealed that cancer is not a single disease but over 200 distinct ones, each with specific genetic alterations. By identifying these gene changes, his work has paved the way for targeted therapies that are transforming cancer from a lethal to a manageable disease.  Looking ahead, Dr. Dalla-Favera sees artificial intelligence as a game-changer in cancer research, helping to manage complex data and improve diagnostics. He is also deeply involved in mentoring young Italian scientists, supporting their careers in North America. His advice to aspiring researchers is to follow their passion, remain ambitious, and work toward significant goals in the field.  Grateful for the ISSNAF award, Dalla-Favera’s story is one of dedication, discovery, and a lasting impact on cancer treatment.