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Dana-Farber patient gathers community to find a cure for multiple myeloma
“You have cancer.”
These are but three simple words, however, when they are placed together, they become three very horrific words. I know, because last August the doctors at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston spoke those three words to me.
Unfortunately, those words were then followed by a diagnosis of multiple myeloma, a type of cancer that develops in one’s bone marrow. After receiving this news I consulted with my family and friends and we decided that I would move forward with a Phase 2 clinical trial being conducted by Dr. Irene Ghobrial.
I am still undergoing treatment. Much has happened in the past year that has caused me to think a lot about my life. I think that being diagnosed with cancer has, in a way, made me a better person. I now see each day as a blessing. I feel extremely lucky to have the love and support of so many outstanding friends and family members.
My wife, Pam, has been my true hero and my rock throughout treatment. She and my two wonderful children, Patrick and Meagan, have been at my side each and every step of the way.
The patient care and research that my family and I have witnessed at Dana-Farber gives us great hope for the future. However, in order to find a cure for multiple myeloma, Dana-Farber must be able to continue to conduct extensive research. This is why we decided to organize a cancer fundraising event: to help find a cure for multiple myeloma.
On October 28, 2016, we hosted the first annual Great White Gala Against Cancer at the Chatham Bars Inn in Chatham, Mass. The event raised more than $200,000 to support the groundbreaking research being led by Dr. Ghobrial.
Words cannot express our sincere thanks to all who were a part of the evening’s success in one way or another. Through the generosity of so many, we are pleased that we were able to raise so much money for Dr. Ghobrial and her important research. It is my hope this small gesture on our part will help advance multiple myeloma research with the ultimate goal of finding a cure in the near future.
By Jay Foran
Developing and managing your own event to benefit the Jimmy Fund can feel challenging, but with the help of the Jimmy Fund staff, families and individuals find ways to create events that honor those who fight cancer each and every day. For more great ways to support cancer research contact the Jimmy Fund Special Events team.
