Volume 1, Issue 1
Spring 2008
A publication of the IMF recognizing our supporters
Introducing the IMF's newest publication
recognizing our strongest asset: YOU!
June 2021, 2008
Young
Peninsula Hotel
supporters
Beverly Hills, CA
raising
money for
research
page 3
Also in this issue:
Donor Recognition 6
NEW: Brian D. Novis
Legacy Society 7
Meet the development
team 8
allof
Upcoming events 10
iracles
NEW: Wall of Miracles 6
Member Events from across
MY STORY: One member's
the country 5, 12, 13
journey 4
Dear IMF Supporters,
Welcome to the very first issue of Making Miracles. The IMF's development department has proudly created this maga-
zine to highlight and pay tribute to the many special people who help us meet our goals of empowering and supporting
the myeloma community and supporting cutting-edge myeloma research.
Making Miracles honors you the IMF donor. Our donors come in all shapes and sizes, from elementary school students
who send us collected pennies to adults who generously remember us as they plan their estates.
Since its founding in 1990, the IMF has grown because of the broad efforts of many thoughtful people doing and giving
whatever they can do and give. We are honored and touched by the creativity of the more than 165,000 members who
support us in ways both large and small. In this inaugural issue of the magazine, you will read about IMF members who
have turned their adversity into generosity. We hope these engaging stories will inspire you to do the same.
The relationship we build with our donors is truly symbiotic. The IMF's mission is to improve the quality of life of
myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure. It is an honor for everyone who works here to see the
rewards of this mission every single day. But we could never achieve these successes without you. When you support the
IMF, you ensure that our life-saving programs and services continue uninterrupted.
We rely on you, and we are here to serve you. I invite you to get to know the whole development department. You'll find
our brief bios on page 8 of this magazine. Please send us an email or give us a call even just to chat.
One final note; many of you may know that Susie Novis and Dr. Brian Durie co-founded the IMF with Susie's late hus-
band, Brian Novis. Brian lost his battle with myeloma in 1992. It is a quote from Brian Novis that inspires the name of
this magazine, and we dedicate this publication in his honor:
"One person can make a difference. Two can make a miracle."
With my deepest appreciation for every miracle,
Heather Cooper Ortner
Vice President of Development
IMF Staff
IMF Board of Directors
Susie Novis
Chairman Dr. Brian G.M. Durie
President
Tom Bay
David Smith
Diane Moran
Heather Cooper Ortner
Loraine Boyle
Executive Director
Senior Vice President, Strategic Planning
Vice President, Development
Mark Di Cicilia
Betty Arevalo
Kelly Cox
Randi Liberman
Michael S. Katz
Administrative Assistant
Director, Support Groups Outreach
Development Associate
Benson Klein
Arin Assero
Paul Hewitt
Colleen McGonigle
Dr. Robert A. Kyle
Liaison Patient Education/
Hotline Coordinator
Data Specialist
Support Groups
Isabelle Lousada
Spencer Howard
Jim Needham
Suzanne Battaglia
Meeting & Event Services
Publication Design
Dr. Edith Mitchell
Director, Member Events
Marya Kazakova
Lisa Paik
Dr. Gregory R. Mundy
Nancy Baxter
Publications Editor
Director, Medical Meetings
Charles Newman
Hotline Coordinator
Missy Klepetar
& CME Programs
Susie Novis
Debbie Birns
Hotline Associate
Abbie Rich
Webmaster
Matthew Robinson
Hotline Coordinator
Andrew Lebkuecher
Regional Director,
Jennifer Scarne
E. Michael D. Scott
Gregor Brozeit
Director, IMF Europe
Support Groups Southeast
Comptroller
R. Michael Shaw
Kemo Lee
Robin Tuohy
Igor Sill
Rachael Coffey
Specialty Member Services
Regional Director,
Administrative Assistant
Coordinator
Support Groups Northeast
Allan Weinstein
Two Member Events Join Forces
to Make a HUGE Impact on
"A Novel C
Treatmen
Sonia V
Research
The IMF is proud to support cutting-edge research projects through
Junior and Senior Grants awarded to doctors working in the field of
CR1 Inhibitor for the
myeloma. In 2006 and 2007 two annual member events, the WAMP
t of OBD in Multiple Myeloma"
Swim-a-thon and Music Against Myeloma, raised significant funds
that the organizers decided to apply in support of IMF research pro-
allet, MD
grams. Their decision has a direct impact on the continued advance-
Massachusetts General Hospital
ment of myeloma research, because their combined efforts are now
Boston, MA
funding a 2008 Brian D. Novis Junior Research Grant.
Osteolytic bone disease (OBD) is a frequent complication of
multiple myeloma. It is characterized by reduced bone forma-
tion and increased bone resorption, resulting in increased risk of
"And I am incredibly grateful
fractures. Myeloma cells secrete several cytokines that promote
to the patients and families
who make my research possible.
Their support inspires my work."
Dr. Sonia Vallet
The first annual WAMP Swim-a-thon took place in 2001 when Liz
Stafford, with the support of her siblings Julianne, Christopher and
Courtney, decided to raise money and awareness in honor of their
father, Jeffery Stafford, who was diagnosed with myeloma that year.
This swim-a-thon has taken place every year since at the Wampanoag
Country Club (hence the event's affectionate name: WAMP) in West
Hartford, Connecticut, with nearly 100 swimming participants each
year and dozens more supporters cheering them on.
The Staffords are a busy clan. Yet despite careers that have taken
many of them far away from Connecticut, the family remains deeply
Dr. Robert A Kyle, grant recipient Dr. Sonia Vallet, and Susie Novis
committed to their tradition of coming together each year to swim
bone resorption by interacting with specific receptors. MLN3897
(Millennium Pharmaceuticals, Cambridge) is a novel, orally
(continues on page 9)
available inhibitor of the cytokine receptor CCR1. It has a safe
toxicity profile, and its anti-inflammatory properties are under
study in rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis patients.
Studies conducted by Dr. Vallet and her colleagues have shown
that MLN3897 blocks the formation and activity of osteoclast
cells, resulting in decreased bone resorption. Importantly, they
have also shown that MLN3897 reduces myeloma cell growth by
inhibiting the growth and survival advantage conferred on them
by the bone marrow microenvironment.
Therefore, MLN3897 may be an effective treatment for osteolytic
bone disease in myeloma patients. Dr. Vallet will study these
potential anti-osteolytic and anti-myeloma effects of MLN3897
in an in vivo model. Data generated from these studies will
provide the framework for clinical trials in myeloma patients
WAMP kids
with bone disease.
800-452-CURE (2873)
3
International Myeloma Foundation
Members Making
iracles
The IMF is deeply touched when our members take it upon themselves to give back. These pages are our
opportunity to publicly recognize some of the hundreds of members who help increase awareness and raise
funds to support the IMF's programs and services through member fundraisers. Whether large or small,
these fundraisers empower each member to take action. Their combined success has a large impact on the
myeloma community. We hope you will be inspired by their stories.
My Story..........
A Surprise Benefit Celebration
Walking and Talking Toward a Cure After months of battling mysterious symptoms that doctors couldn't
by Debra Exner
figure out, Dennis Werra was finally diagnosed with myeloma in
"Anyone want to walk the P.F. Chang's 1/2 Marathon with me?"
October 2006. With a grim prognosis, Dennis and his wife, Bonnie,
I asked my morning walking group. Since 2004, the P.F. Chang's
took what they thought would be their final vacation together, a trip
Rock `N' Roll ArizonaTM Marathon & 1/2 Marathon has taken place
to Las Vegas.
in and around Phoenix, Arizona. When I invited my friends to join
Gratefully, Dennis defied the odds and survived his first year with
with me, getting in shape was only part of the challenge. I also had
myeloma. He gives much of that credit to his newborn first grand-
an ulterior motive: I
child, Lydia, describing his time with her as "better than any medi-
wanted to raise funds
cine the doctors could prescribe." His family knew a celebration was
for the International
in order, but they also knew Dennis was too modest to want a party
Myeloma Foundation.
in his honor. So his children, Jayson, Robyn, and Kyle, hosted a sur-
I first learned about
prise benefit celebration and donated the proceeds to the IMF.
the IMF when my
This first Dennis Werra Multiple Myeloma Benefit Celebration was
mom, Edamay Exner,
held in October 2007 at a lively pub, Magoo's Bar, near their home-
was diagnosed with
town of Franklin, Wisconsin. Dennis was indeed very surprised, and
Here are the six of us after the race.
myeloma in February
very moved by the outpouring of enthusiasm and support. Family
I think we look pretty chipper!
of 1998. We attended
and friends made donations, bought IMF awareness bracelets and
several IMF Patient & Family Seminars, where Mom, my son, Chris,
pins, and participated in a drawing. More than 70 attendees toasted
and I not only learned to understand the unfamiliar language of
to Dennis' recovery and raised over $2,200 for the IMF.
myeloma, but also bonded with and were strengthened by other
families dealing with similar issues. When the going got rough, the
Today, Dennis
IMF's hotline was available to help us through it. The Philadelphia
continues
to
Multiple Myeloma Networking Group (PMMNG) was also a huge
enjoy life. He
part of our lives. I ultimately became a leader of that support group
and
Bonnie
for many years, and I watched hundreds of people find hope at very
have taken sev-
vulnerable times in their lives. It is one of the many support groups
eral more trips
that the IMF assists.
to Las Vegas
and they are
Even though my mom's journey with myeloma ended five years ago,
anticipating the
I am still very connected to the myeloma community. As a moti-
birth of their
vational speaker, I frequently tell my mom's story and talk about
second grand-
many of the amazing people in the myeloma community who have
Dennis Werra
child, due this
impacted my life. Frequently there is someone in the audience
summer. His family looks forward to hosting the 2nd Annual Den-
who has or knows someone with myeloma and we end up having
nis Werra Multiple Myeloma Benefit Celebration in October 2008,
a conversation of hope and encouragement and, of course, about
although this one won't be a surprise.
the IMF!
(My StoRy continues on page 14)
Making Miracles
4
www.myeloma.org
Kids Take Action
Since then, Ashley Barit and her family have spearheaded eight
more events, in 2006 re-naming their endeavor Evening 4 A Cure.
IMF Fundraisers inspire more IMF Fundraisers
To date, the Barits and their loved ones have raised over $250,000
Becky Schlofner, who teaches a Continuing Faith & Confirma-
for myeloma research, care, and support.
tion Catechism Class at Saint Jerome Catholic Church in Phoenix,
Their ultimate goal is to find a cure for this disease, knowing that
Arizona, learned about the IMF by reading about its Concert for a
a cure would not only be a miracle for their own family, but for
Cause in August 2007, and was
thousands of other families as well, many of whom they have met
impressed by the organization's
on their own journey. "It would mean that a mother could see
mission and goals. So when her
her daughter walk down the aisle, or a grandfather could hold his
class of 3rd through 5th grad-
namesake in his arms," says Ashley.
ers decided they wanted "to
Through Evening 4 A Cure, the Barits are honored to be a part of
raise money to help people,"
the fight against myeloma and bring hope for its cure. Building their
Ms. Becky included the IMF
event, and their community surrounding it, has been a big part of
on their list of potential
their "after the diagnosis" story. It's a story with almost ten years of
benefactors.
survival, ten years of trials, and ten years of commitment to finding
By the semester's end the group
Ms. Becky's Catechism Class
a cure. It's a story that continues.
raised $5 through their classroom collection jar, and they reviewed
Old Stuff for a New Beginning
the list of potential benefactors provided by Ms. Becky. After deep
consideration, including a visit to the IMF's website, their decision
When asked why she decided to fundraise for the IMF, Jodi Bianchi
to support the organization was virtually unanimous. These dedi-
of Carlsbad, California says it's because, "the IMF has been such a
cated youngsters donated $4 to the IMF, reserving their remaining
fundamental resource of comfort and information for our family."
$1 to jumpstart next semester's fund. They now all wear awareness
"The IMF has been such
bracelets provided to them by the IMF, a celebration of their valued
support of new friends in the myeloma community.
a fundamental resource of comfort
A Before and After Story
and information for our family."
Jerra Barit has been living with myeloma for almost ten years. The
Jodi Bianchi
Barit family, like many faced with myeloma diagnosis, frames their
Jodi and her family contacted the IMF in 2006 to find out how they
lives as "a before and after story."
could help make a difference. After thinking through their options
Immediately upon
and talking with the IMF staff, Jodi decided to organize Clean for a
Jerra's diagnosis in
Cause, a garage sale with the premise that "selling old stuff " in sup-
December
1998,
port of cure for myeloma means others can have a new beginning.
her daughter Ashley
knew she wanted
to do something
to help her mother
and the thousands
of myeloma patients
all around the world.
Less than five months
the Barit Family Blake, Bruce, Ashley and Jerra,
later, the high-school
with Dr. Asher Chanan-Chan
senior's efforts came
to life as Fashions 4 A Cure. This first fashion show and auction was
held at the family's church and raised over $5,000 for the IMF.
Jodi called upon her friends and neighbors to donate unwanted
"[A cure] would mean that a mother
items, and was thrilled with their outpouring of support. She
could see her daughter walk down
repeated the experience with another Clean for a Cause event in
2007. The experiences have helped Jodi realize that all good things
the aisle, or a grandfather could hold
begin with the efforts of just a few people, and that no effort is too
his namesake in his arms."
small to make a difference. Clean for a Cause has raised over $1,000
for the IMF.
Ashley Barit
(continues on page 12)
800-452-CURE (2873)
5
International Myeloma Foundation
Donor Recognition:
ivingircles
The International Myeloma Foundation truly appreciates every gift we receive. Like
We welcome donors in the following gift ranges
Brian Novis' saying, "One person can make a difference, two can make a miracle,"
into our Giving Circles:
so too does every contribution make an impact on all that we strive to do.
$500 $999
Friends Circle
To recognize our generous contributors the IMF is now establishing Giving Circles,
$1,000 $4,999
Associates Circle
a donor recognition program with seven levels of acknowledgment. By allowing
$5,000 $9,999
Partners Circle
us to publicly recognize those of you who have done so much in the battle against
myeloma, we hope to inspire others to do the same.
$10,000 $24,999
Founders Circle
$25,000 $49,999
Benefactors Circle
Our Giving Circles will be listed each year in the Honor Roll section of the Annual
Report, as well as in other IMF publications on various occasions. We will, of course,
$50,000 $99,999
President's Circle
respect the desire of anyone who wishes to give anonymously.
$100,000 and above Chairman's Circle
New
allofiracles
The IMF is blessed to have donors from all over the United States and throughout
the world. But because our donors are spread so far and wide, it is impossible for us
to properly recognize everyone in one physical location. We are therefore thrilled to
announce the creation of our brand new "virtual" donor wall!
The IMF's Wall of Miracles will reside for all to see and admire on the IMF's website.
Recognition on the Wall of Miracles gives you the acknowledgement you deserve and
serves as an important inspiration to others. The Wall of Miracles will be updated
quarterly and will recognize every donor who contributes a minimum of $5,000
total giving over the prior 12-month period.
Check our website in the coming months for the upcoming "ground-breaking"
of our new Wall of Miracles: www.wallofmiracles.myeloma.org.
Making Miracles
6
www.myeloma.org
Introducing the
Brian D. Novisegacy
and services around
the world. IMF-
funded research
continues
to
lead to a better
understanding
of the biology
ociety
The International Myeloma Foundation proudly introduces the
Brian D. Novis Legacy Society, a new recognition program for
individuals who include the IMF in their long-term estate plans.
Among the IMF's most valued supporters, members of the Brian
D. Novis Legacy Society are making a commitment to ensure a
legacy of optimism for a brighter future for everyone affected by
multiple myeloma.
of myeloma, new
In 1990, Brian Novis co-founded the IMF with his wife, Susie, and
treatments, and bet-
his doctor, Brian Durie. Their goal was to create an organization
ter outcomes for myeloma
that would empower myeloma patients through education and sup-
patients. Through these efforts we
port, and to establish research programs that would eventually lead
are now achieving chronic control of myeloma, which is a major
to a cure.
step towards finding a cure.
Unfortunately, Brian lost his battle to myeloma in 1992. But his leg-
On behalf of the IMF's Board of Directors and myeloma patients
acy continues to change other people's lives, and both Susie Novis
everywhere, it is our privilege to invite you to become a mem-
and Dr. Brian Durie remain as dedicated to the mission as ever.
ber of the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society, helping to ensure that:
Today, the IMF has over 165,000 members and provides programs
"Until there is a cure, there is the IMF."
To Join the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society
Becoming a member of the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society is
you deserve and encourages others to join us. However, should
easy. We gratefully accept the following types of planned gifts* as
you prefer to remain anonymous, we ask that you still consider
membership in the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society:
notifying us of your plans, knowing that the information will be
kept in the strictest confidence.
A bequest provision in your will or revocable trust;
A gift or assignment of qualified retirement plan assets,
Each new member of the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society will
such as an IRA or 401(k);
receive a certificate to show the IMF's appreciation of your com-
mitment. We also invite you to dedicate your gift to a loved one;
A gift of life insurance;
publicly honoring or memorializing a family member is particu-
Other planned gifts with the prior agreement of the IMF.
larly meaningful to many donors.
We request that members confirm their gift in writing by complet-
Please consider making this important commitment, ensuring
ing a Membership Form. No minimum commitment is necessary,
that you are part of a legacy of making miracles and finding a
nor do we ask for proof of your gift. Perhaps you have already
cure.
made arrangements to include the IMF in your planned giving. If
so, becoming a member is as simple as letting us know.
For more information about the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society
or other planned giving opportunities, please contact Heather
Members of the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society lead by example.
Cooper Ortner at hortner@myeloma.org.
Your participation inspires others to make a choice that will influ-
ence countless lives.
*The IMF is happy to work with you on many different planned
gift vehicles, including charitable remainder trusts, gifts of
Members of the Brian D. Novis Legacy Society will be recognized
real property, or charitable lead trusts on a case-by-case basis.
in the IMF's Annual Report (starting with the 2008 report), on
Because the laws in each state are different, please consult your
our website (www.myeloma.org), and occasionally in other pub-
own financial advisor or call Heather Cooper Ortner, IMF Vice
lications. This visible acknowledgement gives you the recognition
President of Development, at (800) 452-2873.
800-452-CURE (2873)
7
International Myeloma Foundation
At your SerVice....
The embers
of the Development Department
Meet the members of the IMF's development team. This dedicated group knows that every gift
means something personal to the individual making it and strives for each giving experience
to be as fulfilling as possible.
Randi Liberman, Heather Cooper ortner, Colleen McGonigle, Sinmi Bamgbose, Suzanne Battaglia
Heather Cooper Ortner
Suzanne Battaglia
Vice President of Development
Director of Member Events
Heather is responsible for overseeing all of the IMF's fundraising
Suzanne's main focus at the IMF is working specifically with
efforts, from major gifts to direct mail and special events. This
patients, family members, and their supporters on grass-
year, Heather is spearheading the launch of the IMF's planned
roots fundraisers around the country. These local events
giving program and recreating the major gifts program. Her pri-
raise awareness, help fund myeloma research, and enable
mary responsibility is to build and cultivate relationships with IMF
members to become pro-active in the myeloma community.
donors, whose contributions fund so many of the IMF's services.
sbattaglia@myeloma.org
hortner@myeloma.org
Randi Liberman
Colleen McGonigle
Sinmi Bamgbose
Development Associate
Data Specialist
Development Intern
Randi's job includes managing our data-
Colleen is responsible for maintaining
Sinmi assists with the on-going tasks asso-
base of over 165,000 IMF members. Using
accurate data entry and record-keeping
ciated with processing donations, such
this tool, Randi works diligently to improve
for IMF patients, friends and family mem-
as facilitating phone donations or pro-
and expand the IMF's communication with
bers. She also processes contributions
cessing matching gift requests. Sinmi
patients, family members, physicians and
from fundraising campaigns, member
is often the first person members will
donors. She helps manage the IMF's direct
events, tributes and memorial donations.
hear on the phone and does her best to
mail and annual giving campaigns and plays
an important role in coordinating several
Colleen also keeps Myeloma Today sub-
make sure that anyone who calls has all
other projects, including special events and
scriptions up to date for each member.
of their questions and needs addressed.
publication of the IMF's Annual Report.
cmcgonigle@myeloma.org
sbamgbose@myeloma.org
rliberman@myeloma.org
Making Miracles
8
www.myeloma.org
Member Events Join Forces continued from page 3
for myeloma research. In addition to this year's research grant co-
sponsorship of $20,000, their 2005 event also sponsored a Brian
D. Novis Junior Research Grant. This year's WAMP is scheduled for
July 19th. It is bound to be another energetic, life-affirming and
lucrative event.
Slava Rubin's father, Mark, passed away from myeloma in 1993. Slava
was 13 years old, and he understandably wasn't thinking about his
father's illness in any context other than what it meant to him and
his family. But more than 12 years later, something occured to Slava
as he was drafting his 2006 New Year's resolutions. He became
determined to stop internalizing his feelings over the loss of his
father, and start making something positive out of them. January 1,
2006 marked the first planning meeting for Music Against Myeloma
promising myeloma researchers. The IMF established the Brian D.
(MAM), an event dedicated in Mark Rubin's honor.
Novis Research Grants Program in 1995 in order to identify, sup-
In its first two years, MAM has raised more than $20,000 by gath-
port and develop research that would most benefit the myeloma
ering together terrific bands, generous high-end merchant dona-
community. The IMF's $3.4 million investment in research grants
tions, enthusiastic volunteers, and revelers from three countries
leads to publication in the world's top research journals, as well
and seven states. Unaware of the IMF during his father's illness,
as further support from other highly-regarded institutions. Junior
Slava developed a relationship with the organization to ensure his
Grant Recipients currently receive $40,000. Senior Grant Recipients
efforts went directly towards funding myeloma research and the
currently receive $80,000.
pursuit of a cure. Slava continues MAM in his father's honor, but
The Brian D. Novis Research Grants Program is wholly funded by
he is also tremendously inspired by and indebted to the expanding
private individuals, IMF members like the Stafford family, the Rubin
circle of people who are now equally dedicated to the event, which
family and you. The research grant funded by WAMP and MAM
is also an important platform for raising awareness about myeloma.
has been awarded to Sonia Vallet, M.D. to continue her research
into osteolytic bone disease. "I am excited about the prospect of
transforming myeloma into a chronic disease," Dr. Vallet says. "And
I am incredibly grateful to the patients and families who make my
research possible. Their support inspires my work." (Please see
inset on page 3 for a summary of Dr. Vallet's research.)
The 2008 IMF grant award presentations took place during the
49th annual meeting of the American Society of Hematology (ASH)
last December. IMF President Susie Novis, Chairman of the Board
Dr. Brian G.M. Durie, and Scientific Advisory Board Chairman
Dr. Robert A. Kyle delivered the awards to the very deserving
recipients.
IMF-funded research continues to lead to a better understanding of
the biology of myeloma, new treatments, and better outcomes for
myeloma patients. With so many positive results, we're now achiev-
ing chronic control of the disease, which is a major step towards
finding a cure.
Dr. Emma Rubin and Slava Rubin
This year's MAM took place on April 24th at The Cutting Room, an
Liz and Slava's efforts prove that everyone can help make a signifi-
upscale Manhattan club. It was a wildly successful event and they
cant impact in myeloma research. Every effort counts.
are already looking forward to next year.
For information about creating an event, please contact Suzanne
Liz Stafford, Slava Rubin, and their families and friends are
Battaglia at sbattaglia@myeloma.org.
now part of a rich IMF tradition of supporting the world's most
800-452-CURE (2873)
9
International Myeloma Foundation
Save the date...
Ray Romano at the 2007 gala
Celebrating Peter Boyle.
Celebrating Peter Boyle
An evening of comedy with family & friends
hosted by Ray Romano
Saturday, November 15, 2008
Wilshire ebell theatre and club, Los Angeles, california
Join the IMF's Family of Fundraisers
As the year gears up, these are some exciting, upcoming,
member events that are taking place in the near future
if they're in your neighborhood, come on out and join the fun!
These and all the new upcoming events are listed on our web site
www.myeloma.org. Click on "Events" tab.
July 13, 2008 Sea Cliff, NY
7th Annual Multiple Musicians Against Multiple Myeloma
Naomi Margolin mmamm@aol.com Tupelo Honey
July 16, 2008 Napervil e, IL Charity Golf Outing
Craig Czerkies Czak16@aol.com, 630-721-0557 Whitetail Golf Course, Yorkville, IL
June 2021, 2008 Beverly Hil s, CA Inaugural Founders Circle Summit
Heather Cooper Ortner, Vice President of Development hortner@myeloma.org or
(800) 452-2873 Peninsula Hotel, Beverly Hills, CA
November 15, 2008 Los Angeles, CA
IMF Gala Celebrating Peter Boyle with host Ray Romano
Heather Cooper Ortner, Vice President of Development hortner@myeloma.org or (800) 452-2873
Wilshire Ebell Theatre and Club
Making Miracles
10
www.myeloma.org
FUNdraising
Across the country, people are bringing their
communities together to raise funds and increase
public awareness for multiple myeloma. The
IMF's FUNdraising program is designed to help you
join the fight against myeloma by starting your own
Mail for the Cure
member event. With over 20 years of experience in
MAIL FOR THE CURE is a simple
event organization, our team is ready to help make your
but very powerful concept with
fundraiser successful from start to finish. We provide you
which you can make a big differ-
with your own web page where your friends and family can
ence. Here's how it works: All over
make secure donations directly to the IMF in support of your event. We also provide you with
the country, people just like you
myeloma awareness materials and merchandise that will help raise awareness in your community.
are mailing letters to their friends
Since its inception in 1990, the International Myeloma Foundation has raised millions of dollars for
and relatives asking for their sup-
patient support and cancer research. Our member fundraisers play a big part in making that number
port of myeloma research and
grow year after year. Our members often hear from people whose lives have been touched by cancer,
other important IMF programs.
whether it has affected them directly or someone they care about. Your member event gives them
We provide you with a specially
an opportunity to join you in making a difference!
coded IMF donation envelope and
Our team is ready to guide you through the process of selecting, planning and implementing a
a letter template, which you can
successful fundraiser. Together, we can keep making miracles!
personalize.
To get started on your MEMBER EvENT or MAIL FOR THE CURE,
contact Suzanne Battaglia, Director of Member Events at sbattaglia@myeloma.org or (800) 452-2873!
Each year, hundreds of millions of used cell phones are taken out of service as tech-
nologies change and people upgrade to newer models. Many of those cell phones
end up in a box or drawer, taking up space but having no value.
Now, you can make a difference in the fight against multiple myeloma by recycling
your old cell phones and turning them into funds for the IMF.
The IMF has partnered with the largest cell phone recycling organization in the
world. We receive a donation for each cell phone they collect through our pro-
Collecting Cell Phones is
gram. The phones are then refurbished or used for parts and resold, in some cases
an easy way to help the IMF.
to underserved areas. Your donation not only helps the IMF, but it also keeps waste
To find out how you can set up a
out of landfills and protects the environment.
cell phone collection program at
Mail your cell phones to:
your business or school, contact
Kemo Lee at klee@myeloma.org or
International Myeloma Foundation
12650 Riverside Dr Ste 206
800-452-CURE (2873).
North Hollywood, CA 91607-3421
800-452-CURE (2873)
11
International Myeloma Foundation
Members Making Miracles continued from page 4
College Students Honor
The event raised over $12,000 for the IMF, exceeding Jennifer's goal
Their President
by more than 20 percent. And the hundreds of people who attended
An Evening of Believing helped underscore Jennifer's devotion to
Brad Bartel, President of Fort Lewis College,
her mother, so much so that Jennifer now fondly refers to the expe-
says of his Durango, Colorado campus, "We
rience as "an evening of love and support."
are a family." Now diagnosed with multiple
myeloma, Dr. Bartel's college family is rallying
Friendly Competition for a Cause
around him.
Gary Heuer, Jr. was a competitive man with a resilient spirit. During
Upon Dr. Bartel's return to campus after a diffi-
his battle with myeloma, he still continued to enjoy the camaraderie
cult period of time, Fort Lewis' students were inspired to raise money
of competition through his participation in golf, softball, and other
for the IMF in his honor. During a Business Club fundraiser associated
athletic endeavors. Not even the grueling effects of his chemother-
with last October's Homecoming Weekend, students raised money
apy treatments could keep him off the course, field or court.
by selling IMF awareness bracelets. His students plan to continue
raising money through additional bracelet fundraising programs
"We are forever grateful for the show
throughoutthisacademicyear.Allproceedsfromthesesalesarebeing
donated to the IMF in honor of President Bartel, the leader of their
of caring that this tournament has
college family.
provided...not only personally, but
An Evening of Love and Support
also as a means to continue to support
After learning of her mother's myeloma diagnosis in May 2007, Jen-
the fight against multiple myeloma."
nifer Baker knew that she wanted to create a fundraiser that would
Nancy Heuer
support the IMF, the organization that was supporting her mother.
"I'm not a runner, nor do I play golf some of the more traditional
When he lost his final battle with myeloma in November 1999,
fundraisers weren't an option," says Jennifer. But her mother, Lynda
Gary's family and friends felt the absence of a great man with a flair
Walters, is a retired
for life, a life that brought such joy to others. So, some of his friends
schoolteacher
always
approached Nancy Heuer, Gary's wife, with the idea of creating an
found with a book at
event to celebrate
her side, and books have
his
memory.
been especially helpful
Their first event,
during
chemotherapy
held in Septem-
treatment. A book sale
ber 2001, was a
event was a natural fit
local horseshoe
for both mother and
tournament. The
Lynda and Jennifer
daughter.
turnout was so
successful they
More than 6,000 books were donated for An Evening of Believing.
decided to make
But it became much more than a simple used book sale. Local busi-
the event even bigger the following year and the annual Gary
nesses in Highland Village, Texas donated wine, bottled water, food,
Heuer, Jr. Memorial Golf Tournament was born.
Since its inception, the Huey, as it has become known, has grown
"I'm not a runner, nor do I play golf
from 35 participants to over 350 golfers and revelers who play and
some of the more traditional
rejoice in Gary's honor. The Huey continues to raise myeloma
awareness and has become more successful in raising funds than
fundraisers weren't an option."
Gary's friends and family ever anticipated. "We are forever grate-
Jennifer Baker
ful for the show of caring that this tournament has provided," says
Nancy. "Not only personally, but also as a means to continue to
and incredible silent auction items, including Dallas Stars hockey
support the fight against multiple myeloma."
and Dallas Mavericks basketball tickets. IMF awareness bracelets
were sold alongside stationery items donated by Barnes and Noble.
The 8th Annual Huey will be held on September 6, 2008. Gary's
friends and family will once again come together to enjoy a little
Jennifer had two goals for her fundraising event: To demonstrate
friendly competition as they celebrate cherished memories of the
her love and support for her mother, and raise $10,000 for the IMF.
man who continues to inspire them.
Making Miracles
12
www.myeloma.org
An Evening at Elko Speedway
Matt's father, Bruce, was
diagnosed with myeloma in
Members of the Twin Cities Area Multiple Myeloma Support Group
December 2006. As members
in Minnesota are no strangers to fundraising. Five years ago, they
of the Philadelphia Multiple
created the Twin Cities Myeloma Foundation (TCMF), an indepen-
Myeloma Networking Group,
dent non-profit organization dedicated to financing the activities of
the Lertzman family had par-
the support group and sponsoring projects designed to raise aware-
ticipated in other myeloma
ness and contribute to myeloma research.
community fundraising events.
Matt was thrilled to have yet
another opportunity to sup-
port the IMF, just as the IMF
had supported his father and
their whole family through
Bruce Lertzman being Zambonied
Bruce's diagnosis and stem cell transplant.
Matt negotiated with the Phantoms to discount their regular ticket
prices for his block purchase. He then oversaw the sale of those
tickets at the regular rate, and donated the proceeds the ticket
price differential to the IMF. Colleagues, friends, fellow York Col-
Pat Harwood and Donna Costello with event volunteers Laura & Jeff Schuerman
lege students, and his family aided him in his ticket sales efforts,
especially his sister Emily, who sold both tickets and IMF Awareness
When local philanthropist Tom Ryan offered the group an oppor-
Bracelets at her high school.
tunity to create a myeloma fundraising event at Elko Speedway (a
well-known local attraction) for the fall of 2007, they were thrilled.
Matt's Philadelphia Phantoms event was a great success. He not only
They were also exhausted, because TCMF had just held their sec-
raised funds and myeloma awareness he also created an incred-
ond successful sit-down dinner fundraiser that past April. But there
ible evening for the hockey organization and the crowd alike. But
was no way they were going to pass up the opportunity, so group
the most special experience was saved for his father, Bruce: a cov-
leaders Donna Costello and Pat Harwood turned to the IMF for sup-
eted ride on the Zamboni.
port. Kelly Cox, Director of Support Group Outreach, and Suzanne
Battaglia, Director of Member Events, enthusiastically helped
Julie's Run for Joann
them organize what ultimately became Jammin' For A Cause, held
Julie Keefe's mother, Joann, was diagnosed with multiple myeloma
November 20, 2007.
after a long battle with anemia, bone pain, and fatigue. The devastat-
Jammin' For A Cause was instrumental in raising awareness of multi-
ing news came the day after Julie had given birth to her third child.
ple myeloma to the community at large, because unlike the support
The diagnosis had profound effect on Julie and her entire family.
group's previous events, this audience included many people who
As they navigated through
were unfamiliar with the disease. Eight hundred people attended
difficult times, they relied on
the hugely successful event, sponsored by Celgene and Millennium
their faith for guidance and
Pharmaceuticals, which featured a performance by popular musi-
the IMF for information and
cians the Johnny Holm Band, a live auction, raffles, a martini bar,
additional support.
and a lot of great food provided by Famous Dave's of Linden Hills,
The trauma of diagnosis gave
Minnesota. The event raised over $40,000. In keeping with their
way to overwhelming relief
mission of supporting myeloma research, TCMF directed the pro-
when Joann experienced a
Julie Keefe and Mom Joann
ceeds to the IMF's Bank On A Cure®, which is conducted at the
successful transplant that led
University of Minnesota.
to remission. Julie wanted to use the occasion to honor her mother,
A Night on the Ice
and give back to the IMF, which "has been a place of comfort through
it all," she says. So Julie began to train for the half marathon portion
While interning for the Philadelphia Phantoms during his senior
of the Marathon of the Palm Beaches in Florida. She ran the event in
year at York College of Pennsylvania, Matt Lertzman was tasked with
December 2007. With the encouragement and pledged support of
the challenge of creating an event for the minor league hockey team
friends and family, Julie's run raised $650 for the IMF.
with their local community. For Matt, this was a particularly mean-
ingful opportunity, and he knew exactly what he wanted to do: use
To discuss ideas you can put into action in your community, please
the occasion to raise money and awareness for myeloma.
call Suzanne Battaglia or email her at sbattaglia@myeloma.org.
800-452-CURE (2873)
13
International Myeloma Foundation
Article coming in the fall issue of Making Miracles:
Afternoon
Tea
at
The Four Seasons Hotel
Carol Klein and Nancy Moses recently hosted a remarkably successful
fundraiser at the Four Seasons Hotel in Wasington, DC, Afternoon Tea with
special guest speaker Clare Duffy, producer for NBC Nightly News with Brian
Williams. You can read about this exciting event in the next issue.
Co-chairs Nancy Moses (l) and Carol Klein (r) with Clare Duffy (center)
MY STORY continued from page 4
I moved to Phoenix two and half years ago. My decision to
possible by cheering me on, wishing me well, by donating via
participate in this year's P.F. Chang's Marathon was made
the IMF website or mailing checks directly to me. I kept a log of the
in honor of my mom, all my PMMNG friends back east,
miles I walked and I sent updates. I tallied up the funds I raised and
and all the inspiring people I have connected with in the
sent thank you notes.
myeloma community.
Now that this particular fundraiser is finished, I'm on the lookout
Four friends ultimately joined me for the challenge. The five of us
for next year's challenge and for other locals ready to join in. Per-
started training in November, beginning with three-mile walks. We
haps we'll try hiking 10 miles on Lookout Mountain anyone in
ultimately worked our way up to 13 miles! We walked at a rate of
Phoenix want to join me? Or, since I'm a business and personal
just over three miles an hour. This gave us a lot of time to talk. Our
coach, how about Coaching for a Cure?
lively conversations took our minds off our tired feet, and that qual-
I am proud to help the IMF in any way I can. Good information,
ity time we spent together is something I also cherish.
research, and new treatments gave my mom and me more than
So how did my fundraiser work? Quite simply, I got the word out.
six years together to travel, to create fun times and great memo-
The IMF created a page for me on their website and I sent an email
ries. Join me in helping the IMF do the same, and better, for many
to friends and colleagues. I asked them to contribute in any way
others. Until there is a cure...There is the IMF!
Yourollarsatwork...
The IMF publishes a comprehensive
library of informative myeloma
resources. Used by patients, caregivers,
healthcare professionals, and anyone
needing a reliable source of up-to-date
information regarding the disease,
these free publications are critical to
a better understanding of myeloma.
Making Miracles
14
www.myeloma.org
IMF roducts
Your contribution for these items will help us provide critical education,
research and support, raise awareness and show support for myeloma
patients worldwide, and help us in our mission to improve the quality of life
of myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure.
Ribbon of Hope Lapel Pins ($5)
IMF Caps ($15)
IMF...A Brighter Future Visors ($15)
Awareness Bracelets (10-pack for $10)
Daily Caregiver Journal ($25)
IMF T-Shirts ($15)
Recipes for Research ($15)
All merchandise can be viewed and/or ordered on our website www.myeloma.org
800-452-CURE (2873)
15
International Myeloma Foundation
InternatIonal MyeloMa FoundatIon
This exclusive event for major donors includes intimate
June 2021, 2008
discussions with leading myeloma and world researchers,
Peninsula Hotel
including Dr. Brian G.M. Durie, IMF Chairman of the Board.
Beverly Hills, CA
Discussions will include:
Program
Breakthrough data from Bank on a Cure®
Friday, June 20th:
to be released later this year
Welcome Reception & Dinner 6:30 pm
Saturday, June 21st:
Latest results from research studies and
Morning Session 8:30 am12:00 noon
clinical trial data, and how they will
Lunch
impact treatment
Afternoon Session 1:00 pm3:00pm
Private meetings with the experts 3:00 pm5:00 pm
Founders Circle members will be invited
Donor Appreciation Dinner 7:00 pm
to express their opinions and provide
$250 per person couvert (does not include hotel or travel)
feedback on these important subjects
For additional information, please contact
Heather Cooper Ortner, Vice President of Development
hortner@myeloma.org or (800) 452-2873
* Members of the Founders Circle contribute a minimum of $10,000 a year.
International Myeloma Foundation
NON-PROFIT
12650 Riverside Drive, Suite 206
ORGANIZATION
North Hollywood, CA 91607-3421
U.S. POSTAGE
oundationF
U.S.A.
PAID
www.myeloma.org
N. Hollywood, CA
(800) 452-CURE (2873)
Myeloma
PERMIT NO. 665
Change Service Requested
International
©2008,
U.S.A.in
Printed
Dedicated to improving the quality of life of myeloma patients while working towards prevention and a cure.