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Impact
Summer 2014
dana-farber.org and jimmyfund.org
THANKING THOSE WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society grants delve
deeper into biology of blood cancers, broaden
access to clinical trials
N
ew funding from the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society
(LLS), a longtime supporter of Dana-Farber, will ­allow
investigators to make inroads into the biology of blood
cancers and move research findings from the laboratory to
the clinic to benefit patients around the world. LLS recently
awarded eight grants to Dana-Farber researchers, totaling
more than $8.5 million.
Irene Ghobrial, MD, received a five-year Specialized
Center of Research (SCOR) grant to identify the precursor
stages of blood cancers and attempt to delay or thwart their
progression to malignancy. She and her colleagues will
study how blood cancers evolve over time and how disease
progression occurs during the transformation from precursor
states to full-blown cancer. In addition, physicians will see
patients in the early stages of disease, including acute myeloid
leukemia (AML), myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), and
multiple myeloma (MM), in a new Hematologic Malignancy
Precursor Clinic.
“Understanding the clonal evolution of certain
hematological malignancies from early- to late-stage
disease will pave the way for defining new treatments for
early-stage blood disorders and provide further insight into
the treatment of AML and MM,” said LLS Chief Scientific
Officer Lee Greenberger, PhD.
In addition, Ghobrial received an LLS Therapy
Acceleration Program grant to establish the Blood Cancer
Research Partnership (BCRP), which will create a network
of sites for clinical trial testing of innovative blood cancer
therapies in community oncology settings across the country.
Ten potential sites have been identified to bring clinical trials
closer to where patients live and provide more opportunities
to participate in these trials. Robert Soiffer, MD, chief of the
Division of Hematologic Malignancies, is co-director of the
BCRP.
“This partnership creates a new pathway of collaboration
among community oncologists, academic centers, and
foundations to improve cancer therapy for patients
throughout the United States,” said Ghobrial. “We are grateful
to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society for its commitment to
advancing innovative therapies and saving lives.”
David Weinstock, MD, received an LLS Scholar Award
to characterize how gene alterations promote the growth
of follicular lymphoma (FL). His research focuses on how
lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell, are altered by genetic
mutations and develop into FL. Weinstock’s research will be
a valuable tool that other investigators can use to test targeted
treatments for patients.
Volume 17 • Issue 2
3
20/20 Vision
4
Saving by Shaving
6
Palm Beach
Partnership
8
Funding the
Next Big Thing
11
Propelling Profile
continued on page 8
DFMC team celebrates 25th running, breaks records
T
he 2014 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge (DFMC) team, including
nearly 750 members from the U.S., Canada, and nine other countries,
felt inspired and grateful as they tackled the 26.2 miles of the 118th
Boston Marathon® April 21. This year’s marathon, which marked the 25th
running of the DFMC, featured poignant tributes honoring those affected by last
year’s tragic events and an extra special energy that connected runners, volunteers,
spectators, and the community of Boston.
The 2014 DFMC team continues to add to its already record-breaking tally
of $6.2 million announced marathon weekend, celebrating a quarter century of
support for the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research at
Dana-Farber. To date, DFMC runners have raised more than $67 million to support
the Barr Program, which funds the innovative, early-stage cancer research that leads
to major scientific breakthroughs. One hundred percent of the funds raised by
DFMC team members support Barr Program research initiatives.
Raising the “Barr”
The Barr Program was established in 1987 by Dana-Farber Trustees Delores Barr
Weaver and her husband, Wayne, in memory of her mother. In 1989, Michael
Silverstein ran the Boston Marathon in memory of his friend Seth Feldman,
and raised more than $35,000 for Dana-Farber. Inspired by Michael’s successful
fundraising efforts, the Weavers offered a $50,000 matching challenge grant for
Dana-Farber to organize a team dedicated to raising funds for the Barr Program.
Bill and Peter Santis, grandsons of Institute founder Sidney Farber, MD, recruited
19 runners to run the 1990 Boston Marathon as Barr Program fundraisers. The
group raised $50,000, met the Weavers’ challenge, and brought DFMC’s first
season total to $100,000.
“I was devastated by the death of my mother in 1957. I could never have
envisioned a basic cancer research program named for my mother, much less
hundreds of runners participating in the Boston Marathon to support that research
through basic science,” said Delores Barr Weaver. “I honestly feel a kinship, a
bond, with each and every runner, even those I have never met. All of us together
with one goal—eliminating cancer.”
continued on page 7
The 2014 Dana-Farber Marathon Challenge team comes together in Hopkinton, Mass., eagerly awaiting
the start of the 118th Boston Marathon.
Dear Friends,
Dana-Farber’s stature as an internationally
renowned leader in the fight against cancer is a
true testament to the power of philanthropy. Our
premier laboratories and clinics, cutting-edge
technologies, and esteemed physician-scientists rest
on a foundation of supporters who have loyally
championed our lifesaving mission.
In this issue of Impact, we are proud to recognize the Leukemia &
Lymphoma Society, which recently awarded grants totaling more than
$8.5 million to Dana-Farber scientists, empowering their research into
the biology of blood cancers. Susan G. Komen®, which has supported the
Institute since 1995, surpassed $20 million in total giving with new grants
totaling more than $2.8 million to deepen our knowledge of breast cancer.
We also say thank you to St. Baldrick’s Foundation for awarding more than
$1.6 million to our talented pediatric cancer researchers; and to the Ovarian
Cancer Research Fund for awarding more than $1.9 million to move us
closer to targeted therapies.
As always, we are deeply gratified by the efforts of our Dana-Farber
Marathon Challenge (DFMC) team. In its 25th year, with a team of more
than 750 members, the DFMC has raised an astounding $6.2 million for
the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative Basic Cancer Research
at Dana-Farber. The 118th Boston Marathon® proved to be especially
meaningful as we honored those affected by last year’s tragic events and
celebrated the incredible achievement of our runners who tackled 26.2 miles
and raised funds to advance our important work.
We also remain indebted to our Palm Beach community. Through the
23rd Annual Discovery Celebration, our friends in Palm Beach raised
$1.5 million this year for our mission to conquer cancer, topping off
$30 million of cumulative giving and bringing vital awareness to the need
for unrestricted funding.
We also extend our thanks to Granite Telecommunications for its $2.2
million gift through its “Saving by Shaving” event. Led by longtime DanaFarber supporters, Granite CEO Robert Hale and his mother, Institute
Trustee Judy Hale, what started out as a dare turned into a resoundingly
successful event, with more than 430 Granite employees shaving beards,
mustaches, and heads to advance our shared cause.
The Institute is fortunate to have so many diverse, committed avenues
of philanthropy. It is an honor to thank each and every supporter for the
significant role you play in bolstering our fight against cancer, and making
a very real difference in the lives of our patients and their families.
Sincerely,
$90 million gift from Ludwig
Cancer Research fuels highimpact, team science
T
he Ludwig Center for Cancer Research at Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer
Center (DF/HCC) has received a $90 million gift from Ludwig Cancer
Research on behalf of its founder, Daniel K. Ludwig, to spur innovative
scientific inquiry and discovery. This gift represents an equal share of a
total $540 million gift to expand the Ludwig Centers at six academic institutions
in the United States.
“With its foresight and resources, Ludwig Cancer Research is fostering a level
of collaboration and translation that will ultimately help improve the lives of
cancer patients worldwide. We acknowledge the responsibility that comes with this
critical support,” said Dana-Farber Cancer Institute President and CEO Edward J.
Benz Jr., MD.
This is the second major commitment received from Ludwig Cancer Research
to support a Ludwig Center that draws on the combined expertise of faculty
members, including those who collaborate through the 18 disease- and disciplinebased research programs that comprise the DF/HCC.
“The independent, flexible funding of this transformational gift to expand
the Ludwig Center will galvanize and support investigators to work together in
new ways with the goal of discovering and developing breakthrough innovations
that can benefit patients with cancer as well as other diseases,” said George
Demetri, MD, the Quick Family Chair of Medical Oncology at Dana-Farber and
co-director of the Ludwig Center.
“In this time of shrinking public funds for science, the impact of this
philanthropic funding cannot be overstated,” noted Demetri, who is also senior
vice president of experimental therapeutics at Dana-Farber. “The research that
will be enabled by this gift will bring together teams of leading basic scientists and
clinical investigators, in a collaborative culture with the Ludwig Cancer Research
community, to turn the best of modern science and technology into new strategies
for the diagnosis, treatment, cure, and prevention of cancer.”
The new funds will allow the cancer research community to build upon
and markedly extend research activities, attract leading biomedical and cancer
researchers, speed the pace of discovery, pursue findings through subsequent stages
of research, and expand collaborations throughout the U.S. and internationally. n
conquer cancer
through golf
Susan S. Paresky
Senior Vice President for Development
Impact
Summer 2014
JimmyFundGolf.org
Chief of Staff; Senior Vice President, Medical Affairs Lawrence N. Shulman, MD
Volume 17 • Issue 2
Senior Vice President, Communications Steven R. Singer, MPA
This issue covers gifts received and finalized through January 2014.
Chief Surgical Officer Scott J. Swanson, MD
President and Chief Executive Officer Edward J. Benz Jr., MD
Chief of Imaging Annick D. Van den Abbeele, MD
Chair, Executive Committee for Clinical Programs Eric P. Winer, MD
Chief Financial Officer and Assistant Treasurer Karen S. Bird, MPH
Chair, Psychosocial Oncology and Palliative Care Susan D. Block, MD
Assistant Vice President, Development Marketing Jan Lawlor
Senior Vice President and General Counsel; Chief Governance Officer Richard S. Boskey, Esq.
Impact Editors Lori Dougherty, Kelsie Guerriero
Chief Medical Officer Craig A. Bunnell, MD, MPH, MBA
Contributors Colleen Akins, Jennifer Skala Bodio, Christine Casalini, Erika Clapp, Katie Connors,
Senior Vice President, Experimental Therapeutics George D. Demetri, MD
Chair, Medical Oncology James D. Griffin, MD
Chair, Radiation Oncology Jay R. Harris, MD
Senior Vice President, Human Resources Deborah Hicks, MA
Chief Quality Officer Joseph O. Jacobson, MD, MSc
Chief Clinical Research Officer Bruce E. Johnson, MD
Scott Edwards, Brittany Flaherty, Jessica Frey, Shayla Guernon, Kelsie Guerriero, Sean Horrigan, Sharon
Mathelus, Katherine McIsaac, Erin McVeigh, Maria O’Meara, Erin Podolak, Laura Shannon, Rebecca
Sherman, Bailey Snyder, Monica Zurlinden
Designer Sharon Veino
Production Coordinators Ryan Agate, Ben Gould, Jessamyn Martin
Photographers Alex’s Lemonade Stand, John Deputy, Mark David Dietl, Driscoll Photography,
Laura Ducie, Drew Hyman, Kelly Park Photography, Lucien Capehart Photography, Maria O’Meara,
Chair, Executive Committee for Research William G. Kaelin Jr., MD
Sam Ogden, Barry Rosin, Brian Smith, Aaron Washington, Matt Wilson, World Economic Forum/
Chair, Executive Committee for Clinical Research Philip W. Kantoff, MD
Remy Steinegger
Senior Vice President, Research Administration Drew Memmott, MA, MPhil
Senior Vice President, Experimental Medicine Lee M. Nadler, MD
Chair, Pediatric Oncology Stuart H. Orkin, MD
Senior Vice President, Institute Operations Maria Papola, MHA
Senior Vice President, Development and the Jimmy Fund Susan S. Paresky, MBA
Senior Vice President, Patient Care Services; Chief Nursing Offer Patricia Reid Ponte, RN, DNSc, FAAN
Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Dorothy E. Puhy, MBA
Impact is a newsletter of Dana-Farber Cancer Institute published by the Division of Development and
the Jimmy Fund. For questions, or to be removed from our mailing list, please contact:
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Division of Development & the Jimmy Fund
10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor
Brookline, MA 02445-7226
617-632-3019 or 800-52-JIMMY
or visit jimmyfund.org/opt-out
Chief Scientific Officer Barrett J. Rollins, MD, PhD
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute provides expert, compassionate care to children and adults and is home
Chief of Staff Emeritus Stephen E. Sallan, MD
to groundbreaking cancer discoveries. Since its founding in 1948, the Jimmy Fund has raised millions
of dollars through thousands of community efforts to advance Dana-Farber’s lifesaving mission.
2
Impact
Summer 2014
Thank you for supporting Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund!
Susan G. Komen celebrates 20 years and $20 million
I
n 1982, Nancy G. Brinker promised her dying
sister, Susan G. Komen, she would do everything
in her power to end breast cancer. Since then, Susan
G. Komen® has played a critical role in advancing the
fight against breast cancer. Today, Komen has invested
more in breast cancer research than any other organization—more than $800 million to date. Since 1990,
early detection and treatments have resulted in a 34
percent decline in breast cancer mortality, and today,
there are 3 million breast cancer survivors, the largest
group of cancer survivors in the United States.
In September 2013, Susan G. Komen, DanaFarber Cancer Institute, and its Susan F. Smith
Center for Women’s Cancers marked a significant
milestone with a celebration honoring Komen for
funding more than $20 million in breast cancer
research at Dana-Farber during the past two decades.
The Institute received its first grant from Susan G.
Komen in 1995 to support Myles Brown, MD, for
his study on transcriptional regulation of estrogen
receptors in breast cancer.
This year, Susan G. Komen’s investment of more
than $2.8 million includes a $1 million grant made
to Andrea Richardson, MD, for her innovative study
into resistance in cancers with high autography;
Career Catalyst grants to early investigators Shailja
Pathania, PhD, and Susan Moody, MD, PhD;
Investigator Initiated grants to Richardson and
Peter Sosinki, MD; and Komen Scholar grants to
Eric Winer, MD, chief of the Division of Women’s
Cancers, David Livingston, MD, deputy director
of the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center, Judy
Garber, MD, director of the Center for Cancer
Genetics and Prevention, Ann Partridge, MD,
founder and director of the Program for Young
Women with Breast Cancer, Ian Krop, MD, PhD,
and Kornelia Polyak, MD, PhD.
“As the largest funder of breast cancer research
outside of the U.S. government, we fund research
that will bring results to patients in the shortest
period of time,” said Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS,
president and CEO of Susan G. Komen. “Our
relationship with Dana-Farber spans decades and has
resulted in meaningful improvement for people facing
breast cancer.”
The Komen and Dana-Farber relationship goes
beyond research funding. Winer, who is also director
of the Breast Oncology Program at the Susan F. Smith
Center for Women’s Cancers, has served as Komen’s
chief scientific advisor since 2007 and is the co-chair
of its scientific advisory board.
“We are extremely grateful to Susan G. Komen for
its steadfast commitment to funding and support of
breast cancer research at Dana-Farber,” said Winer.
“Komen’s investment in research has had a measurable
impact on the lives of breast cancer patients, and it will
continue to save lives as discoveries made by Komenfunded scientists today result in better and more
effective treatments in the years ahead.” n
From left: Susan G. Komen Founder and Chair of Global Strategy Nancy G. Brinker, Institute Trustee Susan F. Smith, Dana-Farber President and
CEO Edward J. Benz Jr., MD, Komen President and CEO Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS, and Eric P. Winer, MD, chief of Dana-Farber’s Division of
Women’s Cancers and Komen chief scientific advisor and Scientific Advisory Board co-chair.
“Our relationship with Dana-Farber spans decades and has resulted in meaningful improvement for people facing breast cancer.” —Judith A. Salerno, MD, MS, president and CEO of Susan G. Komen
St. Baldrick’s Foundation awards nearly $2 million
to pediatric cancer researchers at Dana-Farber
W
ith just 4 percent of the National
Cancer Institute's budget directed
to childhood cancer research, the St.
Baldrick’s Foundation is working to
fill the funding gap by supporting the best childhood
cancer research across the country.
From money raised at their signature head-shaving
fundraisers and the new, individual “Do What You
Want” fundraising events, St. Baldrick’s fulfills their
mission to support leading research institutions.
In 2013, St. Baldrick’s awarded generous grants
to four exceptional pediatric oncology investigators
at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, totaling more than
$1.6 million.
Kira Bona, MD, MPH, is working to identify
social factors contributing to childhood cancer
mortality with the aim of developing a tool that
will ultimately improve outcomes related to effects
of poverty in children with cancer. Research being
conducted by Brian Crompton, MD, focuses on
improving survival rates in children with high-risk
Ewing sarcoma, while Christine Duncan, MD, is
studying late effects of treatment in patients with
high-risk leukemia. Finally, Xiaofeng Wang, PhD, is
looking at the role of a particular gene mutation that
causes rhabdoid tumors, a highly aggressive cancer in
young children.
“This funding from the St. Baldrick’s Foundation
enables us to continue to provide the very best care
for children with cancer and other blood disorders,”
said Stuart Orkin, MD, chair of Pediatric Oncology
at Dana-Farber. “Because of Dana-Farber’s link to
Harvard Medical School and Boston Children’s
Hospital, we are fortunate to attract outstanding
investigators like these, who, with generous support
from organizations like St. Baldrick’s, are working to
develop and introduce new therapies.”
The St. Baldrick’s Foundation also awarded one
of its first International Scholar awards, a three-year
grant totaling more than $310,000, to Soad Fuentes
Alabi, MD, who is collaborating with Dana-Farber to
help build epidemiology research capacity in Central
America. This new and unique funding category is for
researchers from low- or middle-income countries to
be trained in pediatric oncology research, who then
commit to continue that research in their country.
Research in these areas of the world is important to
improving overall understanding of childhood cancer,
which benefits children everywhere.
“All of our grants are made with the goal of
improving the survival rate of childhood cancers
or giving a healthier future to survivors, who often
experience serious medical issues as a result of the
treatment that saved their lives,” said St. Baldrick’s
Foundation CEO Kathleen Ruddy. “The St.
Baldrick’s Foundation is proud to support excellent
research like that being conducted at Dana-Farber
to help infants, children, teens, and young adults
survive the many cancers that strike them. We
welcome people from all walks of life to get involved
in funding research to find cures.” n
10% of all designated gifts supports our Faculty Research Fund to advance Dana-Farber’s research mission.
Hayden, one of five St. Baldrick’s 2014 Ambassadors, with his
father, Chad.
“The St. Baldrick’s Foundation
is proud to support excellent
research like that being conducted
at Dana-Farber to help infants,
children, teens, and young adults
survive the many cancers that
strike them.” —St. Baldrick’s Foundation CEO
Kathleen Ruddy
Impact
Summer 2014
3
Make your gift online at dana-farber.org/give
Granite Telecommunications’ “Saving by Shaving” raises
$2.2 million for Dana-Farber
W
hen he asked longtime employee Ross Golen what it would take
for Golen to shave off his long beard and handlebar mustache,
Granite Telecommunications CEO Rob Hale was probably not
expecting the answer to be a gift to Dana-Farber. But that is what
happened on March 3, when a bit of banter blossomed into a major event generating $2.2 million in gifts from Hale, his company, and his mother, Institute Trustee
Judith Hale, to one of Granite’s primary charities.
Ever since his late father, Robert Hale Sr., was treated at Dana-Farber for
pancreatic cancer, Rob has made giving back to Dana-Farber an annual priority.
He initially pledged $10,000 to see a clean-shaven Golen, whose own father had
a cancerous kidney removed at Dana-Farber last year. When other employees
volunteered to get shaved, “Saving by Shaving” was born. The company pledged
$1,000 per employee, and Judy Hale joined Rob to up the ante, offering $2,000
each for every employee who had their beard, mustache, or head shaved. More
than 430 employees rose to the challenge, with local barbers and hair stylists
volunteering their services for the event at Granite’s Quincy, Mass., headquarters.
“Almost everybody has been affected by cancer, and those of us who have seen
its impact want to fight back,” said Rob. “For my teammates to step up makes a
powerful statement. They, too, want to honor a loved one and make a compelling
effort to stop cancer.”
In addition to the money raised at the shaving event, the Granite Fiber Arts
Committee knitted 153 “chemo caps,” which were donated to Dana-Farber’s
Eleanor and Maxwell Blum Patient and Family Resource Center for patients
undergoing chemotherapy. Granite donated $500 per cap to the fundraising
efforts. Several participants also donated their hair to Locks of Love, a nonprofit
organization that accepts hair of at least 10 inches in length to create hairpieces for
financially disadvantaged children suffering hair loss from the treatment of cancer
or other medical conditions.
Granite Telecommunications CEO Rob Hale (center) and his mother, Institute Trustee Judith Hale, and
their company gave $2.2 million to Dana-Farber through a fundraising challenge sparked by the beard
of Granite employee Ross Golen (right).
The Hales and their company are longtime supporters of Dana-Farber. Most
recently, a $10 million gift from Judy Hale and her children established the
Hale Family Center for Pancreatic Cancer and the Robert T. and Judith B. Hale
Chair in Pancreatic Cancer. And each June since 2003, “Granite Day” turns the
company’s parking lot into a carnival, entertaining thousands of local residents and
raising nearly $1.5 million to date for Dana-Farber.
“This amazing, spontaneous event symbolizes the unwavering commitment
that everyone at Granite has to Dana-Farber,” said Edward J. Benz Jr., MD,
Dana-Farber president and CEO. “We’re incredibly grateful to the Hales and to
the whole Granite family for their continued generosity toward Dana-Farber’s
lifesaving mission.” n
Wayne and Shan Russell fund Hyundai Hope On Wheels
multiple myeloma research
drives pediatric cancer research
I
A generous gift from Wayne (center) and Shan Russell supports the research of Paul Richardson, MD.
A
t the age of 16, Wayne Russell was driving truckloads of timber to market,
running a country store, and playing football. After putting himself through
college, Russell went on to own and operate a network of convenience stores and
gas stations across the South. On weekends, he went fishing and hunting with his
children and grandchildren. His energy was boundless.
Then, in 2006, Russell became so weak that he could not sit up on his own,
and was diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Seeking the best treatment, Russell
came to Dana-Farber to see Paul Richardson, MD, now director of Clinical
Research and Clinical Program leader for the Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple
Myeloma. During the past eight years, doctor and patient have bonded.
“Dr. Richardson can explain the intricacies of your treatment,” said Russell. “And
his research into medicines like Velcade® and Revlimid ® have helped save my life.”
As part of his treatment, Russell has undergone two stem cell transplants under
the care of Ted Alyea, MD, a fellow Southerner.
To advance Richardson’s work, Russell and his wife, Shan, pledged $100,000 to
establish the Wayne and Shan Russell Fund for Multiple Myeloma Research.
“Wayne and Shan’s dedication to our research is inspirational,” said Richardson.
“Their generous gift helps us synergize with our laboratory colleagues to develop
new treatments that can further improve the outlook for our patients.” n
4
Impact
Summer 2014
n 1998, New England Hyundai dealers launched an initiative to raise funds
for pediatric cancer research at Dana-Farber. Now, 16 years later, Hyundai
Hope On Wheels® continues to advance the Institute’s mission with support
from Hyundai Motor America and dealers nationwide. It recently awarded
a $250,000 Hope Grant to Charles Roberts, MD, PhD, to explore how specific
mutations drive pediatric cancer, which could reveal new therapeutic targets to
combat rhabdoid tumors, neuroblastomas, and other challenging malignancies.
“This grant comes at an exciting time, and will expedite our work to understand
the biology driving aggressive pediatric cancers,” said Roberts. “We can now take the
next steps toward identifying novel therapies for our young patients.”
Hope On Wheels also awarded Paola Friedrich-Medina, MD, a $75,000
Scholar Grant to analyze how race and ethnicity affect childhood cancer incidence
and survival.
“Support from Hyundai is propelling this critical research on cancer disparities,
which could impact pediatric patients on a national and global scale,” said
Friedrich-Medina.
Through Hope On Wheels, local dealer fundraising, and sponsorship,
Hyundai’s support of Dana-Farber totaled nearly $550,000 in 2013.
“We are proud of our longstanding relationship with this prestigious
organization that has been at the vanguard of pediatric cancer research,” said Zafar
Brooks, executive director of Hope On Wheels. “Together, we are underwriting
meaningful research. We could not be more proud of our partnership with DanaFarber for all they do on behalf of children and families.” n
From left: Ken Bloech, then Hyundai Motor America Eastern Region General Manager, with Charles
Roberts, MD, PhD, 2013 Hyundai Hope on Wheels National Youth Ambassador C.J. George, Paola
Friedrich-Medina, MD, and Dana-Farber President and CEO Edward J. Benz Jr., MD, at the 2013
Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund Walk.
Michael J. Fox Foundation advances research in two fields
P
arkinson’s disease and cancer appear to be vastly different diseases, but
two Dana-Farber Cancer Institute researchers can attest that they have
much in common. Together, Jarrod Marto, PhD, director of the Blais
Proteomics Center at Dana-Farber, and Nathanael Gray, PhD, have
received more than $2.1 million in grants from The Michael J. Fox Foundation
for Parkinson’s Research (MJFF) for four research projects since 2011, including a
recent grant for more than $1.6 million.
One reason a foundation that supports an aggressive research agenda aimed at
finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease is funding cancer researchers is that scientists
use similar tools and technology to study both diseases. With his most recent grant
from the MJFF, Marto will be using deep sequencing mass spectrometry developed
in Dana-Farber’s Blais Proteomics Center to identify protein-level signatures
in samples of cerebrospinal fluid of Parkinson’s patients, which could be early
indicators of disease. Development of such biomarkers—biological compounds in
blood, body fluids, or tissues—may pinpoint aberrations and thereby enable early
detection of Parkinson’s disease and improve the accuracy of diagnosis.
Katie Kopil, PhD, the associate director of research programs at MJFF
overseeing this project, said biomarker discovery itself is an area of commonality.
“To date, no biomarker has been discovered within Parkinson’s disease, and we
feel we have a lot to learn from the field of cancer, which has had a head start in
identifying biomarkers,” said Kopil.
Marto and Gray also have received MJFF grants for research into LRRK2, a
gene that is mutated in about 1 to 2 percent of Parkinson’s patients.
Marco Baptista, PhD, the associate director of research programs at MJFF
who oversees this research, said, “We have learned from the cancer field how to
potentially make drugs against Parkinson’s disease caused by LRRK2 mutations.”
Gray said that research done at Dana-Farber into understanding an aberrant
kinase like LRRK2 parallels the research of protein kinases in cancer, which when
mutated also can remain stuck in an “on” position, causing the unregulated growth
of cells—a step in the development of cancer. Gray’s research involves kinase
inhibitors, which can often be effective cancer treatments and are of keen interest
to Parkinson’s researchers.
Both Gray and Marto said they are learning from the field of Parkinson’s
disease research, just as the MJFF researchers hope to make discoveries through
cancer research.
Dana-Farber’s Jarrod Marto, PhD, director of the Blais Proteomics Center, is applying deep sequencing
mass spectrometry technology developed at Dana-Farber to identify early biomarkers of Parkinson’s
disease in research supported by the Michael J. Fox Foundation.
“The MJFF believes that the more people we can bring under the tent, the more we increase our
chances of making advances against Parkinson’s
disease. We believe strongly in bringing in experts
from other fields.” ­—Katie Kopil, PhD, associate director of research programs, MJFF
“The MJFF believes that the more people we can bring under the tent, the more
we increase our chances of making advances against Parkinson’s disease. We believe
strongly in bringing in experts from other fields,” said Kopil. n
Harnessing the power of the
immune system to fight cancer
L
ongtime Dana-Farber Trustee and a veteran venture capitalist, Howard Cox
has an entrepreneurial spirit and a passion for innovative ideas. When he
learned about the rapidly expanding potential of cancer immunotherapy
and the groundbreaking research taking place at Dana-Farber’s Center for
Immuno-Oncology from Dana-Farber President and CEO Edward J. Benz Jr.,
MD, he was compelled to help.
Cancer immunotherapies are treatments that harness the power of a patient’s
own immune system to detect and attack their cancer, and Dana-Farber has long
been a leader in the field. Now, under the direction of F. Stephen Hodi, MD,
the Center for Immuno-Oncology is connecting cancer specialists in various
disease areas with immunology experts across the Institute to collaborate in
unprecedented ways and to establish
new methods and protocols. As a
forward-thinking pioneer himself, Cox
identified with Hodi’s work and made
a $200,000 gift, which will advance
the center’s efforts to accelerate clinical
trials of immunotherapies that hold
the promise of less toxic, more effective
treatments for patients with many
different types of cancer.
“With its venerated history and
depth of expertise, Dana-Farber is
making major strides towards the
development of immunotherapies and
targeted new drugs,” said Benz. “Gifts
such as Howard’s pave the way for the
remarkable advances that have taken
place and ensure that Dana-Farber will
Institute Trustee Howard Cox is accelerating
remain at the forefront of this field long
innovations in cancer immunotherapy with his
into the future.” n
gift to the Center for Immuno-Oncology.
10% of all designated gifts supports our Faculty Research Fund to advance Dana-Farber’s research mission.
Chefs for Jimmy shines on the podium
More than 1,000 food lovers and philanthropists gathered at the 24th annual Chefs
for Jimmy event hosted by the Jimmy Fund Council of Western Massachusetts Jan. 24.
Anticipating the winter games and their exciting medal ceremonies, this year featured
a “Cooking for the Gold” theme. Chefs for Jimmy, presented by Winer Levsky Group
of USB Financial Services Inc., featured 30 restaurants and caterers from Western
Mass., contributing their delectable and medal-worthy dishes. With scrumptious food,
an opportunity drawing, and silent auction, Chefs for Jimmy won the gold and raised
more than $107,000 in unrestricted support in memory of Neal Webber, a longtime
supporter of the Jimmy Fund.
Above, at the check presentation are (from left) event co-chair Andrew Cohen,
event committee member Danielle Veronesi Polastry, Jimmy Fund Special Events
Development Officer Kerry Sachs, event committee members Elizabeth Haire and Erin
Corriveau, Jimmy Fund Director Suzanne Fountain, Institute Trustee and event Co-chair
Barbara Sadowsky, event Co-chair Michael Katz, event committee member Elizabeth
Rappaport, and presenting sponsor representative Adrian Levsky.
Impact
Summer 2014
5
Palm Beach season an outstanding success
F
or more than 20 years, the Palm Beach community has generously
supported Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund. Building
on its extraordinary commitment, the Palm Beach community raised
$1.5 million for Dana-Farber this year during its Discovery Celebration
events, bringing its cumulative total to nearly $30 million. Dana-Farber also held
its first-ever Palm Beach event in support of the Bridge Project, raising more than
$1 million for this unique cancer research collaboration.
Institute Trustee Phyllis Krock, Tom Quick, and corporate partner Saks Fifth
Avenue kicked off Dana-Farber’s Palm Beach season Jan. 17 with a “Best of Saks”
runway show and dinner. Institute President and CEO Edward J. Benz Jr., MD,
introduced the evening and highlighted Palm Beach’s important role in DanaFarber’s mission to fight cancer, setting the tone for an exciting and inspirational
season.
On Feb. 20, at Trump International in West Palm Beach, the Discovery
Celebration weekend opened with a dinner hosted by Carolyn and David Brodsky,
Judy and Jim Harpel, Sheila Palandjian, and Institute Trustee Jean Sharf and her
husband, Fred.
The next morning, Institute Trustee Judie Schlager and her husband, Larry,
hosted the 13th Annual Breakfast with the Doctors symposium at the Palm Beach
Country Club, during which more than 200 guests heard from a panel of six
accomplished Dana-Farber physician-scientists.
The 23rd Annual Discovery Celebration Feb. 22, themed “The King
and I,” capped off the weekend. A distinguished group of more than 350
Discovery Celebration Grand Honorary Chairs and Grand Benefactors Michele
Kessler, an Institute Trustee, and her husband, Howard (left); Honorary Chair
Patrick Park (second from left); and Grand Honorary Chair Donald Trump.
Dana-Farber donors and friends gathered at the Mar-a-Lago Club for dinner
and entertainment.
The event culminated with a dynamic and memorable performance by
Emmy and Tony Award–winning actress Kristin Chenoweth. During her show,
Chenoweth invited 11-year-old guest Charlotte Krieger to perform a duet, “For
Good,” from the Broadway musical, “Wicked.” Charlotte and Kristin received a
standing ovation from the crowd.
This year’s Discovery Celebration was made possible by the shared dedication
and commitment of its Grand Honorary Chairs, Institute Trustee Michele Kessler
and her husband, Howard, and Melania and Donald J. Trump; Honorary Chair
Patrick Park; and Chairs Paul and Phyllis Fireman, Vicki and Arthur Loring, Amy
and Robert Schlager, and Barbara and Arthur Simons.
Additionally, following the Discovery Celebration events, Dana-Farber hosted
a reception and dinner in Palm Beach Mar. 24 to present the Bridge Project,
a collaboration between Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center and the Koch
Institute at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. The event raised more
than $1 million, which will help the collaboration accelerate the discovery of new
cancer treatments.
“Each and every year, the Palm Beach community displays its support and
commitment to Dana-Farber’s mission to conquer cancer,” said Benz. “Thanks to
its enduring dedication, the Institute is able to advance cancer research and bring
targeted treatments to cancer patients who need it most, worldwide.” n
(From left) Discovery Celebration Co-chairs Robert and Amy Schlager and
Vicki and Arthur Loring.
Discovery Celebration Grand Benefactors and
Co-chairs Paul and Phyllis Fireman.
Discovery Celebration Co-chairs Barbara and
Arthur Simons.
(From left) Peter Schuette, general manager
of Saks Fifth Avenue Palm Beach, a Discovery
Celebration Grand Benefactor; Dana-Farber
President and CEO Edward J. Benz Jr., MD; and
Kick-Off Party Co-chairs Phyllis Krock, an Institute
Trustee, and Tom Quick.
(From left) Pre-Celebration Dinner Co-chairs Jim and Judy Harpel, Fred and
Jean Sharf, an Institute Trustee, Sheila Palandjian, and Carolyn and David
Brodsky.
6
Impact
Summer 2014
Melinda Gordon and Howard Cohen, trustee of
the Fishman Family Trust–Sandra Fishman, a
Discovery Celebration Grand Patron.
Breakfast with the Doctors Chairs Judie Schlager,
an Institute Trustee, and her husband, Larry.
Discovery Celebration Grand Patrons Lori and
Christopher Alf.
Discovery Celebration guest Charlotte Krieger performed with Tony and Emmy
Award–winning Actress Kristin Chenoweth.
Impact is available online at JimmyFund.org/Impact
Cocozzas celebrate family
with $100K gift
M
ark and Susan Cocozza know how precious life is, especially the
life of a child. When their daughter recently gave birth to a set of
healthy, beautiful twins, they found even more reason to celebrate
life and family. While the Cocozzas have been longtime donors to
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, they wanted to make a special gift to the Institute
to mark the birth of their first grandchildren. With a gift of $100,000 to the
­Institute’s Capital Projects Campaign, the Cocozzas named a conference room and
seating area in the Charles A. Dana Building in honor of the twins, Thomas Mark
McDonald and Caetlyn Marie McDonald.
Mark Cocozza recently attended an event to celebrate the naming of the
Marcotte Center for Cancer Research. The words of Albert Marcotte, PhD, who
committed $30 million to support the Capital Projects Campaign and strategic
research initiatives, resonated with him in a powerful way.
“I hate to see anyone suffering, especially children, and I thought Dr. Marcotte
was right that research is the answer to cure cancer,” Cocozza said. “I hope the gifts
made to the campaign inspire others to give.”
The Capital Projects Campaign will help Dana-Farber carry out a number of
key expansion projects already under way. With these enhancements, Dana-Farber
can continue to attract the most talented and world-renowned physician-scientists,
remain at the forefront of translational cancer research, accelerate discovery, and
deliver compassionate patient care. n
With their gift to the Capital Projects Campaign, Susan and Mark Cocozza (left) named space in the Dana
Building in honor of their grandchildren, Caetlyn and Thomas McDonald, above with their parents, Tara
Cocozza and Dave McDonald.
DFMC continued from page 1
Visiting Committee members
make joint gift for myeloma
research
A
s members of the Hematologic Oncology Visiting
Committee, Steven L.
Cobb and Jason R. Chambers appreciate the opportunity to gain
firsthand knowledge of the groundbreaking research being conducted at
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute.
“Dana-Farber has made incredible
strides in making multiple myeloma a
manageable disease,” said Cobb. “What
was once a death sentence is on its
way to becoming a disease people can
comfortably live with, thanks to the
talented researchers at Dana-Farber.”
Constantine Mitsiades, MD, PhD, is working on
One researcher who caught their
targeted therapies to help myeloma patients with
attention early on is Constantine
complex and advanced stages of the disease.
Mitsiades, MD, PhD.
“We’re extremely impressed with
the progress we’ve seen Constantine make through the years and want to see him
continue to succeed in his research,” said Chambers.
Mitsiades has been working to accelerate the development of targeted therapies
for patients with complex and advanced stages of myeloma.
“Our goal is to find more effective, less toxic treatments for myeloma patients,
which wouldn’t be possible without the support of donors, such as Steve and
Jason,” said Mitsiades.
Inspired by the collaboration and accomplishments of researchers in Mitsiades’
lab, Cobb and Chambers have jointly provided two-thirds of the funds needed for
Mitsiades to further his research project over the next three years. They hope this
gift will encourage other donors to consider the benefits of collaborative, multiyear gifts and the impact such gifts can make on multiple myeloma research and
the work of laboratories such as Mitsiades’. n
Inspired by Avalanna,
Cure AT/RT Now advances
research and hope
A
Brian Herr, the only person who has run with the DFMC all 25 years, with Institute Trustee and Barr Program
Founder Delores Barr Weaver at the 2014 Pasta Party.
25th time is a charm
Only one person has run with DFMC every single year since its inception in
1990—Brian Herr. This April, Brian ran his 25th DFMC Boston Marathon in
memory of his father. He aimed to raise $25,000 in his 25th year. He exceeded this
goal and, in total, has raised more than
$220,000. Brian remains steadfast in
his commitment to DFMC, and to the
mission of Dana-Farber and the Barr
Program.
“I enjoy running a great deal, so
it’s easy to come back year after year,”
Brian said. “I’ve watched the DFMC
grow, and I’m always inspired by the
team’s dedication to fighting cancer.
You can feel the power of care and the
compassion of the Institute when you
The Claudia Adams Barr Program in Innovative
run with DFMC. There’s an amazing
Basic Cancer Research was created to support
sense of purpose and community.” n
groundbreaking basic research.
10% of all designated gifts supports our Faculty Research Fund to advance Dana-Farber’s research mission.
valanna Routh never
failed to light up a
room. Her charm and
exuberance warmed
the hearts of those around her, and
quickly captured national attention.
“Anyone who had the pleasure of
knowing Avalanna would say that she
was the embodiment of courage and
grace,” said Charles Roberts, MD,
PhD. “She made us want to try even
harder.”
After a six-year battle, Avalanna
lost her fight to an aggressive atypical
teratoid rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT)
in 2012. Inspired by their daughter’s
Cure AT/RT Now established the Avalanna Fund
bravery, Aileen and Cameron Routh
in memory of Avalanna Routh, above.
launched Cure AT/RT Now to raise
awareness and funds to combat this
rare pediatric cancer, and recently gave $100,000 to Dana-Farber to establish the
Avalanna Fund under the direction of Roberts.
“Avalanna was very inspirational, and radiated so much love and laughter,”
said Aileen, sharing that their support of Dana-Farber is dedicated to “finding a
cure and giving people hope that we will get there.”
“Charlie Roberts has been a huge influence for us,” said Cameron. “It’s been
a pretty easy decision for us to fund his research.”
Roberts has studied the biological mechanisms driving pediatric rhabdoid
tumors for more than a decade. His work aims to identify new therapeutic targets
to expand and improve treatment options for patients battling these rare cancers.
“The families driving Cure AT/RT Now tirelessly garner awareness and funding
to help us uncover more effective treatments,” said Roberts. “It’s wonderful to see
Avalanna’s joy and positivity live on through their outstanding work.” n
Impact
Summer 2014
7
Follow us at Facebook.com/TheJimmyFund and on Twitter @TheJimmyFund
Ovarian Cancer Research Fund fuels research into
targeted therapies
O
varian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF) is the
oldest and largest charity in the United States
supporting ovarian cancer research, with a mission
to fund scientific research that will lead to more
effective identification, treatment, and ultimately a
cure for ovarian cancer. Throughout the past year,
OCRF awarded five Dana-Farber researchers with
grants totaling more than $1.9 million to fuel their
groundbreaking studies focused on targeted therapies.
“Ovarian Cancer Research Fund strives to fund the
very best ovarian cancer research,” said Audra Moran,
CEO, Ovarian Cancer Research Fund. “That DanaFarber has received so many OCRF research grants
over the years is a reflection of Dana-Farber’s strength
as a premier center of ovarian cancer research in the
United States.”
In spring 2013, OCRF granted two Liz Tilberis
Early Career Awards of $450,000 to Dana-Farber’s
Joyce Liu, MD, MPH, and Michael Goldberg, PhD.
These awards support junior faculty with a strong
commitment to an investigative career in ovarian
cancer research. Liu’s project explores the idea that
inhibiting the functioning of a novel therapeutic
target, ErbB3, can be an effective treatment against
a subset of ovarian cancer cases. Goldberg is
undertaking parallel work focused on the combined
approach of inhibiting both immunosuppressive
pathways and pro-proliferative oncogenic pathways.
Most recently OCRF awarded two Ann Schreiber
Mentored Investigator Awards to Dana-Farber’s Maria
Giuseppina Baratta, PhD, and Raphael Ceccaldi,
PharmD, PhD. These awards provide funding for
trainees who are working under the supervision of
a mentor who is a recognized leader in the field of
ovarian cancer research. Baratta’s research into novel
therapeutic targets for high-grade serous ovarian
carcinoma aims to test the role of the gene POLQ
New Cumming funds support
experimental therapeutics
on the survival of a human ovarian cancer cell
while growing into a tumor. Ceccaldi is pursuing
bioinformatic analysis of the role of elevated POLQ
in ovarian tumor cells, to determine whether women
with this specific class of ovarian tumor have a
characteristic prognosis or response to therapy.
Additionally, as part of its 20th anniversary
supporting ovarian cancer patients, OCRF awarded
a $900,000 Program Project Development Grant to
a team of researchers led by Ursula Matulonis, MD,
medical director of Gynecologic Oncology at DanaFarber’s Susan F. Smith Center for Women’s Cancers.
Treatment advances in ovarian cancer have reached a
plateau, so Matulonis and her team are undertaking
three projects that involve testing new combinations
of targeted drugs.
“Newer agents that target ovarian cancer genetic
abnormalities have shown some efficacy as single
agents, but cancer cells eventually figure out ways
to grow despite the drug,” said Matulonis. “With
support from OCRF, the goal of this project is to
quickly bring laboratory-tested and verified novel drug
combinations into ovarian cancer clinical trials.” n
KBT Charitable Foundation
establishes fund, continues
a family legacy of giving
T
Jack Cumming and his wife, Pamela, have been longtime supporters of Dana-Farber.
W
ith more than 30 years of experience in the medical industry, Jack
­Cumming knows the importance of compassion and customer service. As
a longtime donor to Dana-Farber, Cumming observed these values in action when
his friends and loved ones were treated at the Institute. To support quality care and
the groundbreaking research that is pivotal to Dana-Farber’s mission, Cumming
recently pledged $200,000 to establish two research funds focused on experimental therapies.
“It is my belief that Dana-Farber is the right place and has the physicianscientists who will discover the next big breakthrough to find cures and prolong
quality of life for patients,” Cumming said.
George Demetri, MD, Dana-Farber’s senior vice president for experimental
therapeutics, will manage both funds.
“Dana-Farber is committed to developing highly effective new treatments
for patients with all types of cancers, ranging from the rarest sarcomas to the
most common cancers,” Demetri said. “This gift will provide our physicians and
researchers with the flexibility to design the best possible studies that will speed the
testing of new discoveries to help patients.”
In supporting this work, Cumming is confident that Dana-Farber can help to
conquer cancer by investing in research.
“By putting precious dollars in the right hands, then good things will happen,"
he said. n
8
Impact
Summer 2014
he Redstone Family’s history of giving is closely woven into the history of
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and the Jimmy Fund.
Beginning with Michael Redstone, one of the founding fathers of the
Jimmy Fund, his son Sumner Redstone, and his granddaughter Shari
Redstone, who are both Institute Trustees, the Redstone Family has committed
their support to Dana-Farber for more than 60 years.
Their tradition of giving continues with a fourth generation—siblings Tyler
Korff, Brandon Korff, and Kim Ostheimer—who founded the KBT Charitable
Foundation and established the KBT Fund at Dana-Farber with a gift of
$100,000. The KBT Fund will provide critical resources necessary for Institute
priorities as they arise, from innovative clinical trials to support programs for
patients and their families.
Additionally, at the end of 2013, the KBT Charitable Foundation issued a
matching challenge to annual fund donors, inspiring more than $450,000 in gifts
to Dana-Farber.
“Our family has a long history of supporting the Jimmy Fund and DanaFarber, and we’re proud to continue that legacy,” said Tyler Korff. “We are
constantly reading about Dana-Farber’s achievements, whether it is nextgeneration gene sequencing, the creation of a state-of-the-art patient and family
resource center, or pro bono financial services for patients. We’re delighted to
contribute to such a worthy cause.” n
Leukemia & Lymphoma Society continued from page 1
Pediatric oncology research fellow Koshi Akahane, MD, PhD, received an
LLS Fellow award to study T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (T-ALL), a
disease that, despite treatment advances, remains fatal in 25 percent of children
and 50 percent of adults. Under the direction of A. Thomas Look, MD,
Akahane will investigate the mechanisms of innate resistance to mitochondrial
apoptosis (programmed cell death) in treatment-resistant T-ALL in order to
identify effective strategies for therapeutic intervention.
“Drs. Ghobrial, Weinstock, and Akahane are leading clinicians and scientists
who will not only provide insight into the genetic underpinnings of disease, but
are uniquely positioned to translate these findings to improved treatments,” said
Greenberger.
Other Dana-Farber researchers receiving LLS awards were Ami Bhatt, MD,
PhD, Gianluca Varetti, PhD, and Haojian Zhang, PhD, who received Fellow
awards, and John Koreth, MD, PhD, and Kimberly Stegmaier, MD, who
received Scholar awards. n
Elsa U. Pardee Foundation
funds research examining
metastatic breast cancer
T
hanks to a generous $150,000
grant from the Elsa U. Pardee
Foundation, Dana-Farber Cancer
Institute’s Constantine Mitsiades,
MD, PhD, and postdoctoral fellow
Eugen Dhimolea, PhD, will delve
into the complex properties of
metastatic breast cancer and its effect
on its microenvironment in order to
determine a more effective treatment.
Metastatic disease occurs when
tumors spread to other parts of the
body, and it remains the main cause
of mortality in breast cancer. Initial
A gift from the Elsa U. Pardee Foundation is
treatment is often ineffective once
supporting the metastatic breast cancer research
of Dana-Farber’s Constantine Mitsiades, MD,
metastases occur, which may be, at
PhD, with a $150,000 grant. Pictured: The late
least in part, the result of the tumors
Elsa and James Pardee.
manipulating the healthy cells around
them.
“Metastatic tumors usurp and hijack the functions of non-malignant cells
and use them to their advantage,” Mitsiades said. “Support from the Pardee
Foundation will allow us to identify the strategies to best neutralize how metastatic
breast cancer with non-mutant estrogen receptors takes advantage of these normal,
non-malignant cells around them.”
“The Pardee Foundation supports innovative approaches to cancer treatments
and cures—that has been our approach since the 1950s when we realized
promising scientists were often denied funding simply because they were
unknown,” said Gail Lanphear, Pardee Foundation president. “We are proud to
fund Dr. Mitsiades’ promising work examining metastatic estrogen receptor–
positive breast cancer and its microenvironment.”
The Pardee Foundation was established in 1944 with a $1 million bequest
from the estate of Elsa U. Pardee, wife of the former board chairman of The Dow
Chemical Company. Pardee died of breast cancer, and wished for the foundation
to support the “control and cure of cancer.” n
DeBaun family honors the
memory of a husband and
father
W
hen Bob DeBaun was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in
2002, he came with his wife, Jane, from Chicago to Dana-Farber
to begin treatment under the care of Kenneth Anderson, MD,
director of the Jerome Lipper Multiple Myeloma Center and
LeBow Institute for Myeloma Therapeutics.
Jane recalls the extraordinary care that Bob received over the years that he
was treated at Dana-Farber: “Dr. Anderson was incredibly compassionate, and
everyone—from the phlebotomist to the nurses and office staff—were a blessing.”
Believing that research was the key to better treatments, the DeBauns made two
gifts over six years to fuel research conducted by Anderson and Paul Richardson,
MD, director of clinical research at the Jerome Lipper Center for Multiple
Myeloma.
Sadly, DeBaun passed away in 2010. To honor Bob’s memory, Jane and her
children and their spouses, Elizabeth and Jason Pasquinelli and Blake and Leslie
DeBaun, made another gift of $100,000 to continue their commitment to
Anderson’s research.
“Bob was one of the most caring and giving persons I have ever known. He
continues to be our hero and inspiration,” said Anderson. “We are deeply grateful
to Jane and her family. In Bob’s honor, we will develop new and more effective
therapies to help myeloma patients worldwide.” n
In 2005, Bob and Jane DeBaun began funding research being done by Ken Anderson, MD (center). To honor
Bob’s memory, Jane and her children have generously continued their support.
A home run for President’s Circle
Appreciation Night
Members of Dana-Farber’s President’s Circle giving society were recognized for their
steadfast generosity with a night of celebration at the 8th Annual President’s Circle
Appreciation Night. Held April 8 during the first week of the baseball season, the event
attracted more than 160 President’s Circle members to Fenway Park. The evening
celebrated members’ annual gifts totaling $10,000 and above. During the welcome
reception and before watching the Boston Red Sox take on the Texas Rangers, guests
enjoyed famous Fenway Franks and other ballpark fare while mingling with fellow
­members. ­Attendees also received updates on the Institute from Dana-Farber Chief of
Staff Emeritus and Faculty Chairman of Philanthropy Stephen Sallan, MD, and a warm
welcome from Radio Voice of the Boston Red Sox Joe Castiglione of WEEI Red Sox
Radio Network (left, displaying his 2013 World Series ring).
Melanoma Research Foundation supports study of
rare eye cancer
M
ost often when we think of melanoma, we think of skin cancer.
However, we have melanocytes—the
type of cells affected by melanoma—in
other parts of the body as well. Approximately 2,000 Americans are diagnosed
each year with one of the rarer forms
of melanoma: ocular, also called uveal,
melanoma in the eyes. The Melanoma
Research Foundation (MRF) awarded
a $200,000 grant to support research
into uveal melanoma, led by Levi
­ arraway, MD, PhD, director of Dana-Farber’s Center for Precision Medicine.
G
10% of all designated gifts supports our Faculty Research Fund to advance Dana-Farber’s research mission.
“I am grateful for this support from the Melanoma Research Foundation, which
will advance our goal to discover potential therapeutic targets that could lead to
the development of new therapies for patients,” said Garraway.
This research will be one of the largest studies of uveal melanoma completed to
date, and will define for the first time the full landscape of mutated genes present
in this type of cancer.
“The MRF’s CURE Ocular Melanoma initiative is pleased to be able to support
Dr. Garraway, a world-renowned melanoma researcher who is expanding his work
in uveal melanoma,” said Tim Turnham, PhD, executive director of the Melanoma
Research Foundation. “This research should provide decisive insights into the
spectrum of genetic alterations in uveal melanoma, as well as possible new drug
targets that could provide the basis for effective therapies in this lethal type of
cancer.” n
Impact
Summer 2014
9
Consortium will drive
new treatments for
myelodysplastic syndromes
A
s part of a six-institution,
$16 million consortium
created to change the
course of treatments and
outcomes for patients suffering from
myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS),
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute received
initial funding through the Aplastic
Anemia & MDS International
Foundation of Rockville, Md., and
the Edward P. Evans Foundation to
advance research on MDS, a group of
diseases that affect the bone marrow
and blood. David Steensma, MD, leads
the team at Dana-Farber that includes
David Steensma, MD, leads the Dana-Farber
team named to a national consortium to improve
one fellow yearly, a research nurse, and
outcomes for patients with myelodysplastic
a research coordinator. Members of
syndromes (MDS).
the consortium collaborate to accrue
the patient bases desperately needed to
“Dr. Steensma has a great
conduct studies and get results sooner.
“Dr. Steensma has a great rapport
rapport with patients
with patients and with the foundation,
and the foundation,
and it is wonderful to have him as
and it is wonderful to
part of the consortium,” said John
have him as part of the
Huber, executive director of the
foundation. “No single place has a
consortium.” sufficient number of patients to have a
­—John Huber, executive
successful study, so bringing together
director of the Aplastic
these leading medical foundations and
institutions is imperative, and that
Anemia & MDS International
includes Dana-Farber.”
Foundation
“It’s a unique opportunity to have
these sites collaborate on these diseases,
as they are very difficult to treat. This is the first time that we have had something
like this surrounding MDS and these diseases,” said Steensma. “Quality of life
is also important in these studies—we not only examine blood, but utilize focus
groups and other special tools to measure the patients’ experiences.” n
Immunotherapy: Changing
the rules of the game
M
ichael Goldberg, PhD, wants to
change the environment when it
comes to approaching cancer. Rather
than killing cancer cells using tools
that originate outside of the body, such
as radiation and chemotherapy, Goldberg has been investigating the concept of
working more closely with an internal ally: the immune system. Goldberg’s research
explores the use of nanoparticles to target and stimulate immune cells rather than
subjecting the whole body to traditional therapies that often have devastating side
effects. His goal is to leverage immunotherapy to restore a natural order to the body
that can theoretically fight all types of cancers, including melanoma.
The Melanoma Research Alliance (MRA), the largest private funder of
melanoma research, conducts a rigorous review of grant applications received
from researchers around the world every year. Recently, MRA awarded funding to
Goldberg through the Helman Family-MRA Young Investigator Award, which is
designed to support research faculty who are at the beginning of their promising
careers. Goldberg’s award is part of the Team Science award that includes two
other Dana-Farber investigators, Kai Wucherpfennig, MD, PhD, and Glenn
Dranoff, MD.
“We are proud to support the work of talented young researchers like Michael
Goldberg,” said Wendy Selig, MRA president and CEO. “These scientists
represent the future of melanoma research, and their ideas and drive will translate
into improved options for melanoma patients.”
“We’re very excited by the promising clinical data demonstrating that
stimulation of a patient’s immune system can result in durable outcomes,
particularly among melanoma patients,” said Goldberg. “With the support of the
MRA, we seek to apply nanotechnology to increase the percentage of patients who
achieve such encouraging responses, with a view towards a cure.” n
10
Impact
Summer 2014
Riemer family gift advances
breast cancer research
I
n honor of the doctor who treated
their daughter, Carol and Stanley
Riemer have established a fund
to further breast cancer research
and care at Dana-Farber. The Carol
and Stanley Riemer Family Fund will
support research efforts led by Eric
Winer, MD, chief of the Division of
Women’s Cancers and director of the
Breast Oncology Center at DanaFarber’s Susan F. Smith Center for
Women’s Cancers.
“During what was a difficult and
frightening situation, Lizzie was
fortunate enough to have Dr. Winer as
Stanley and Carol Riemer’s generous gift will
her doctor,” said Carol. “He’s quite an
support breast cancer research and care at Danaamazing and wonderful man—so kind
Farber.
and caring.”
“He was remarkable,” Stanley
agreed. “No matter how busy he was or how many obligations he had, when he
was with Lizzie, there was no sense of hurry. He was 100 percent focused on her
and her treatment.”
In addition to the exceptional care their daughter received, the Riemers were
also impressed with Winer’s ability to bring his research expertise to the bedside.
“Lizzie received chemotherapy and surgery,” Stanley added. “But she also
benefited from a breakthrough drug, so we saw firsthand the benefits of research.”
“The Riemers’ generous gift will make a great impact in our mission to better
understand and treat breast cancer,” said Winer. “With their support, we can
accelerate our research to identify new therapies and provide compassionate care to
patients and their families.”
The Riemers have been Dana-Farber donors for more than 30 years. Stanley’s
law firm, Riemer & Braunstein LLP, supports a variety of Dana-Farber and the
Jimmy Fund activities. n
A hole in one for Golf Appreciation
Night
The annual Jimmy Fund Golf Appreciation Night, held at Dana-Farber’s Yawkey Center
for Cancer Care Feb. 6, recognized members of the Jimmy Fund Golf community
for their exceptional commitment to Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund. The evening
paid tribute to an outstanding 2013 fundraising season, which welcomed 26 new
tournaments, celebrated nine milestone anniversaries, and raised more than $6.45
million for the Jimmy Fund.
The Ken Coleman Extra Mile Award, named in honor of the former Boston Red Sox
sportscaster, is presented annually to outstanding tournament volunteers. The 2013
recipients were Robert Brack (left) of the Joan H. Brack Memorial Golf Tournament,
which has raised more than $1.5 million since 1999, and Gerry Forget (right) of the East
Woonsocket Little League Jim Carr Memorial, which has raised nearly $225,000 since
1993. A third Extra Mile Award recognized the late Paul Dowd of the Paul Dowd Jimmy
Fund Classic, which has raised more than $335,000 since its inception 30 years ago.
To include Dana-Farber in your estate plans, call us at 617-632-3756
Three grants from Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation
advance novel research
I
n 2000, 4-year-old neuroblastoma patient Alexandra Scott set up a lemonade
stand to raise money for her doctors, so that she could help other kids while
receiving her treatments. That first year, Alex and her brother raised $2,000.
While bravely fighting cancer, Alex set up lemonade stands every year.
When she passed away in 2004, her family continued her legacy through Alex’s
Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF). Furthering its commitment to finding cures
for all childhood cancers and building on a history of longstanding support, ALSF
recently awarded three new grants to Dana-Farber oncologists.
Dana-Farber pediatric oncologists Charles Roberts, MD, PhD, and Loren
Walensky, MD, PhD, each received a $250,000 Innovation Award, while Jessie
Hsu, PhD, received a $100,000 Young Investigator Award.
The Innovation Award funds researchers who take a novel approach to pediatric
cancer scientific investigation. Roberts’ work focuses on targeting a tumorsuppressing gene in rare and aggressive pediatric rhabdoid tumors, with the goal of
developing novel targeted therapies to combat them. Walensky’s research combines
chemistry, pediatric cancer biology, and translational medicine to identify and
dismantle the cell survival mechanisms that drive childhood cancers and treatment
resistance. By bridging disciplines, Walensky hopes to create next-generation
therapies for relapsed and refractory pediatric cancers.
Hsu will use her Young Investigator Award to conduct research on
osteosarcoma, the most common bone cancer afflicting mostly children and
young adults. Despite efforts in the past 30 years, treatment for this devastating
disease has not improved significantly. This award offers the unique opportunity
to develop new, more effective and less toxic treatments for children with
osteosarcoma.
“I am confident that these research projects can make an impact on pediatric
patients and their families,” said Jay Scott, co-executive director of the foundation.
“We choose projects that are likely to make critical contributions to current
pediatric cancer research and play a part in bringing the latest and most promising
lifesaving treatments to seriously ill children.” n
Seaman gift to support
research on lung cancer
genetics
“Citizen of the world” bequest
funds research for genetic
profiling of rare cancers
D
ana-Farber Cancer Institute
Trustee Richard Seaman’s
connection to lung cancer
research spans nearly 40
years. When his father, who was
treated at the Institute for lung cancer
in the 1970s by the late Emil Frei,
MD, passed away, Seaman created
the Norman R. Seaman Endowment
Fund for Lung Cancer Research in his
father’s memory.
Now, through the generosity of the
Seaman Family Foundation and the
Seaman Corporation, an additional
$400,000 gift will expand and grow the
endowed fund. This support will help
further research to discover new genetic
Richard Seaman is supporting research to discover
targets in lung cancer in the laboratory
new genetic targets in lung cancer.
of Matthew Meyerson, MD, PhD.
“I am grateful for this generous
support, which will enable our efforts to elucidate the underlying biology of lung
cancer,” said Meyerson. “With this gift we will be able to pursue long-term efforts
to understand the function of specific genetic mutations.”
Since his first encounter with Dana-Farber, Seaman has been impressed by
the innovative research at the Institute and how these breakthroughs are used
to revolutionize patient care. It is what he says makes Dana-Farber truly unique
among cancer care organizations.
“Over the years new genetic discoveries have truly altered the landscape of lung
cancer care,” said Seaman. “From the cocktail of chemotherapy to the pinpoint
precision of targeted therapy, these new treatments hold tremendous promise for
lung cancer patients.” n
CELEBRATe our
world champions!
10% of all designated gifts supports our Faculty Research Fund to advance Dana-Farber’s research mission.
“I raise money for pediatric cancer research with the help of other kids and grownups through my lemonade
stand.” – Alex Scott, 2004
F
or anyone who knew her, the watchword for Susan Curran was
“thoughtfulness.” That thoughtfulness shone through after she was told that
the treatment options had been exhausted for the complex and unclassified
cancer she was fighting. Prior to her untimely death in January 2013,
Susan decided to leave an endowment, the Curran Family Research Fund, to
Dana-Farber to support long-term research geared toward a more comprehensive
understanding of the genetic mutations in cancer.
After her tumor was sequenced for genetic mutations through Dana-Farber’s
Profile program, Susan decided to direct her fund to support Profile and the
technology platform that drives it,
OncoPanel. Through Profile, scientists
and clinicians at Dana-Farber can scan
more than 300 genes in tumor samples
to identify genetic mutations that can
be targeted by existing therapies.
“The Curran Family Research Fund
will benefit patients, especially those
like Susan with extremely rare cancers,
by helping us tailor treatments based on
genetic mutations that we might find
in their cancer,” said Barrett Rollins,
MD, PhD, Dana-Farber chief scientific
officer, who will oversee the fund.
Susan’s goal for the fund was to help
as many cancer patients as possible,
something she believed Profile and
OncoPanel were designed to do.
“Susan never stopped being a citizen
Susan Curran wanted the Curran Family Research
of the world,” said her husband, Matt
Fund to help as many patients as possible,
Wilson, “and now, through this gift,
especially those with rare cancers.
she never will.” n
Get your Jimmy Fund/
Red sox License Plate
JIMMYFUND.ORG/PLATE2014
Impact
Summer 2014
11
Impact
Summer 2014
ana-Farber Cancer Institute
D
Division of Development & The Jimmy Fund
10 Brookline Place West, 6th Floor
Brookline, MA 02445-7226
Non-profit Org.
U.S. Postage
PAID
Dana-Farber
THANKING THOSE WHO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
dana-farber.org and jimmyfund.org
ELECTRONIC SERVICE REQUESTED
The 2014 Jimmy Fund Co-Captains, Boston Red Sox third baseman
Will Middlebrooks (left) and catcher David Ross, kicked off the
season with a visit from Jimmy Fund Clinic patient Gianna Martiniello
at Fenway Park. As ambassadors for the Jimmy Fund, Co-Captains
Middlebrooks and Ross will lend their support to Jimmy Fund events,
visit adult and pediatric clinics, raise awareness, and build support
for Dana-Farber.
July
June
–July
Jimmy Fund Theatre Collections
Volunteer for the Jimmy
Fund’s longest-running
fundraiser and give
generously when the canister
is passed down the aisle at
National Amusements and
independent theatres in
Mass., Conn., R.I., N.Y., and
Ohio. Contact: Catie Hsieh at
617-582-7724 or catherine_
[email protected].
June
–Aug.
Give $1 at the register at
participating Burger King
and Valvoline locations and
receive a promotion card
with a guaranteed prize.
Contact: Ryan Delaney at
617-582-9675 or ryan_
[email protected].
Aug.
19-20
WEEI/NESN Jimmy Fund RadioTelethon presented by Arbella
Insurance Foundation, Inc.
Tune in to this 36-hour live
broadcast from the Boston
Red Sox’ historic Fenway
Park, and give generously.
Contact: Jacquelyn Callahan
at 617-632-5008 or visit
jimmyfundradiotelethon.org.
September
Jimmy Fund Little League Program
presented by Extra Innings
Swim Across America
Dive in to the 22-mile Boston Harbor Island relay July 11, or
the Nantasket Swim July 12 for swimmers 12 and up in Hull,
Mass., and support the David B. Perini, Jr., Quality of Life
Clinic at Dana-Farber. Contact: Kerry Sachs at 617-582-7916
or [email protected].
July 23–
Aug. 12
A Chance for Kids & Families®
AUGUST
Help kids have fun while learning philanthropy. Support
your local Little League district in Mass. and N.H. Contact:
Laura Ducie at 617-632-3613 or
[email protected].
July 11
& 12
July 28
–Sep. 7
Strike Out Cancer
Give $1, $3, or $5 at the register at participating Taco Bell,
KFC, and The Paper Store locations, and receive a baseball
pin-up displaying your support for the Jimmy Fund. Contact:
Ryan Delaney at 617-582-9675 or
[email protected].
Aug. 1
Joe Cronin Memorial Jimmy
Fund Fishing Tournament
Support Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund with this
fun day on the water in Osterville, Mass. Contact: Kelly
­Lauriat at 617-632-5091 or visit joecroninfishing.com.
Aug.
2–3
Pan-Mass Challenge
Join more than 5,800 riders as they
bike across the Commonwealth to
raise $40 million in the 35th annual
Pan-Mass Challenge. 100 percent
of every rider-raised dollar supports
Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund.
Register to ride, volunteer, or make
a gift at pmc.org.
Aug.
17
New Balance Falmouth Road Race
Run this seven-mile road race on scenic Cape Cod to
raise funds for Dana-Farber and the Jimmy Fund, or make
a gift to support a runner. Contact: Emily Falconer at
617-632-6610 or [email protected].
Sep.
21
Boston Marathon® Jimmy Fund
Walk presented by Hyundai
Walk one of four routes along the
historic Boston Marathon® course,
from 3 miles to the full 26.2, and
raise funds to conquer all forms
of cancer at Dana-Farber. Register
today at jimmyfundwalk.org or call
866-531-9255.
October
Oct.
12
B.A.A Half Marathon®
Register now to join the official Dana-Farber team, and
raise funds to conquer cancer. Visit rundanafarber.org/BAA
or contact Cara Mitchell at 617-632-3492.
For more information on all Jimmy Fund and Dana-Farber events, go to jimmyfund.org or dana-farber.org.