Volume 3, Issue 1
Spring/Summer 2010
A publication of the IMF recognizing our supporters
Three Myeloma
Support Groups
One Common Goal.
Read the inspiring story
on page 3
MY STORY: Steve Hoppe 4
McKean Against Myeloma 5
IMF Board Member Remembered 7
Also in this issue:
Member Events From Around the Country 4 Comedy Celebration Report 6 IMF Products 10
Planned Giving 11 The Hope Society 11 IMF 3rd Annual Founders' Circle Summit back cover
Dear IMF Supporters,
It has been a full year since our last issue of Making Miracles. Last summer, we made the deliberate decision to scale back
the frequency of its publication in an effort to conserve resources. But we remain dedicated to Making Miracles and its
important purpose of sharing your stories and singing your praises. The result is this jam-packed issue, a retrospective of
all the wonderful things our members participated in over the last year.
The year has been a tumultuous one to say the least in so many ways. Yet the IMF has remained constant in our
commitment to provide education and support to myeloma patients and their families. We have also maintained our
impassioned commitment to fund the highest level of collaborative research. Your support of our programs and dedication
to our mission has enabled the IMF to be an oasis for so many during this difficult time.
This past year also saw the IMF's expansion of our advocacy program. Our grassroots efforts depend greatly on the
participation of our membership. This is another example of how our members are actively engaged in making their own
miracles.
We are profoundly touched by the outpouring we have seen over the past year and the level of commitment we already
have for this year. And it is never too late to get involved! Participation in the IMF's member events or advocacy programs
not only helps us it also provides you with a personally fulfilling way to be part of the search for a cure.
On behalf of everyone at the IMF, thank you to the army of volunteers who get involved and get the word out. We couldn't
do it without you and we look forward to continuing our partnership with you this year and beyond.
With my deepest appreciation for every miracle,
Heather Cooper Ortner
Vice President of Development
IMF Staff
IMF Board of Directors
Susie Novis
David Girard
Chairman Dr. Brian G.M. Durie
President
Executive Director
Tom Bay
Jennifer Scarne
Dan Navid
Diane Moran
Heather Cooper Ortner
Lisa Paik
Loraine Boyle
Chief Financial Officer
Senior Global Analyst
Senior Vice President,
Vice President,
Vice President,
Strategic Planning
Development
Clinical Education &
Mark Di Cicilia
Research Initiatives
Michael S. Katz
Betty Arevalo
Debbie Birns
Marya Kazakova
Jim Needham
Benson Klein
Database & Inventory Control
Hotline Coordinator
Publications Editor
Publication Design
Dr. Robert A. Kyle
Arin Assero
Joanie Borbely
Missy Klepetar
Selma Plascencia
Dr. Edith Mitchell
Director, Communications
Regional Co-Director,
Hotline Associate
Data Specialist
& Public Policy
Support Groups SE
Charles Newman
Andrew Lebkuecher
Meghan Pullarn
Sylvia Baca
Gregor Brozeit
Regional Co-Director,
Advocacy Assistant
Susie Novis
Accountant
European Programs
Support Groups SE
Abbie Rich
Matthew Robinson
Suzanne Battaglia
Kelly Cox
Kemo Lee
Webmaster
E. Michael D. Scott
Director of Member Events
Director,
Specialty Member Services
Support Groups Outreach
Coordinator
Robin Tuohy
Igor Sill
Zsolt Bayor
Regional Director,
IT Consultant
Paul Hewitt
Randi Liberman
Support Groups NE
Allan Weinstein
Nancy Baxter
Hotline Coordinator
Development Associate
Amy Weiss
Hotline Coordinator
Spencer Howard
Kerri Lowe
Meeting & Event Services
Development Intern
Myeloma Suppor t Gr ou pS
unite in theityofrotherlyove.
They originally came together for
The entire fundraiser was built
support. They ended up creating
upon creating community par-
promise for the future.
ticipation. Even the distance of
the race itself, a 5K, was chosen
In April 2008, Maddie Hunter,
with this mission in mind. "You
Ann McNeill, and Paula Van Riper
can walk that distance or run it,
convened at the IMF's Annual
or do either version with stroll-
Support Group Leaders Retreat.
ers," Karen points out.
They
shared
geography.
Karen Horan, Phil Falkowitz, Paula Van Riper, Maddie Hunter,
Maddie co-leads the Philadelphia
Marilyn Alexander Kostrow, Earl Kostrow, Kathy Bertino, Sharon Klei
The Miles for Myeloma 5K
Myeloma Networking Group;
planners also built par-
Ann leads the Hackensack,
ticipation
through
a
New Jersey group; Paula, the
"team" system, through
Central New Jersey group.
which groups of families,
friends, and co-workers
The three women admired each other's leadership and engagement
banned together as runners and volunteers extending awareness
in the myeloma community. All three also sensed it was time to
and fundraising possibilities, as well as creating a larger yet more
extend the commitment of their support groups beyond the walls
personal atmosphere for everyone involved. Teams created their
of their monthly meetings. They would do so by joining together.
own names, t-shirts, and
One year later, on April
banners; their efforts were
25, 2009, it is miracu-
documented in official team
lously an 80 degree
photos. In total, 19 teams,
day in Philadelphia.
comprised of 500 runners/
The sun is shining. Five
walkers and 50 volunteers,
hundred runners and
came out for the cause.
walkers wait at the start-
While
support
group
ing line for the Miles for
members put their teams
Myeloma 5K to begin.
together
and
acquired
Mayor Michael Natter (L) and Terry Rugles,
By the end of the day,
personal donations, event
One of the wallking teams
Master of Ceremonies and NBC News Anchor
over $92,000 has been
planners partnered with
raised with more than
corporate entities for outreach and donations, making the day a
$67,000 going to the IMF. How did they do it?
polished event. The Miles for Myeloma 5K team hired a professional
timing company to authenticate the race on a course that was USA
Overseeing the planning was Karen Horan. Though Karen had
Track and Field/RRTC Certified.
ample professional fundraising experience, she quickly understood
that this project was special. Her hus-
Karen and her fellow planners also understood that the
band was diagnosed with myeloma four
race itself was only one part of the equation. They also gave
years ago, at age 37. "Having your own
great thought and preparation to the pre- and post- race
connection to the disease, and having
atmosphere.
people whose struggles you're person-
They built a grandstand, complete with a podium, for a
ally aware of help you coordinate the
pre-race ceremony. Local NBC News anchor Terry Ruggles
event it's a different perspective,"
served as Master of Ceremonies, introducing esteemed
Karen says.
speakers, including Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter.
Karen is quick to acknowledge the many
Post-race, the event segued into a family-friendly festival,
hard-working, passionate people who
Off and running
including a D.J., a clown, and the announced results of the
helped build the event. They just as
event's opportunity drawing organized by Marilyn Alexander, Sha-
quickly credit her for keeping things successfully in motion. "With her
ron Klein, and Earl Kostrow and accounting for $17,000 of the day's
outstandingleadershipandcreativeideas,Karenwasourtouchstone,"
earnings. Prizes included a 42-inch flat-screen television, a 7-day
Paula says.
(continues on page 9
800-452-CURE (2873)
3
International Myeloma Foundation
You Make
iraclesHAppEN
Every time someone organizes an event in his or her local community, the IMF extends its reach. People
who have never heard of myeloma gain awareness, and people who once felt community-less gain the IMF
as their touchstone.
The IMF strives to be your foundation in the most inclusive way we can. Our Member Fundraising cam-
paign is an important part of this, and has blossomed into an extensive network of people around the
world people like you helping to raise money for myeloma research and educational programs.
We hope you'll find reading about these wonderful events inspirational and decide to get involved yourself.
Contact Suzanne Battaglia today!
My Stor y:
His Marathon for His Mom
Let's Misbehave
By Gail Pollard
While raising money to combat
When I count my blessings, my son,
myeloma, Alexandra Zousmer
Steve Hoppe, is always high up on
and Joanna Share also shared a
my list. I think the world of him,
second purpose: they wanted to
but I never would have thought that
show their peers (in their mid-
Steve would take it upon himself to
20s) that fundraising could be
run the 113th Annual Boston Mara-
something through which "we
thon last spring let alone dedicate
can be our fun, crazy selves while
Alexandra Zousmer and Joanna Share
his endeavor to the International
still doing good for society," Alex says. From those two goals, Misbe-
Myeloma Foundation and to me.
have for Multiple Myeloma was born.
I was diagnosed with myeloma two
On September 25, 2009, 160 guests joined Alex and Joanna at Cap-
years ago, from my annual blood
tain Morgan's Club in Chicago. In addition to their many friends
tests. I had never heard of myeloma Steve Hoppe crossing the finish line
in the city, family and friends flew in from both coasts to join the
before. Steve hadn't either. Sometimes it's hard to think about the
misbehavior, including Arnold Zousmer Alex's father and Joanna's
seriousness of this disease, but through a strong faith, my family and
uncle an 11-year myeloma survivor. "He is an inspiration to us all,"
I have been able to accept it and work through it.
Joanna says.
Steve applied that faith and hard work to his marathon training. On
For a $30 admission
many occasions he called to let me know how far and fast he had
charge,
the
revelers
run that day. These progress reports alone made me proud because,
enjoyed music, an open
mind you, he was training for this marathon while serving as a min-
bar, games, an auction and
ister at three different churches in Manhattan and while becoming
a raffle supported by local
the proud new parent of Zac, a Sheeba Enu puppy. Between ser-
sponsors. The two women
mons, speaking engagements, workshops, church duties, and walk-
originally hoped to raise
ing his new puppy, he found time not only to train, but to make his
$7,500. They ended up
(L-R) Max Zousmer, Alexandra Zousmer,
marathon run a fundraiser, and to encourage everyone he knew to
raising $14,000.
Michele Zousmer, Arnold Zousmer,
donate to the IMF.
Joanna Share, Rochel Share
"I cannot even tell you how
Steve's literal road to the marathon began with a six-hour bus ride
many phone calls, emails, and Facebook posts I got the days follow-
from New York City to Boston. I wish I could have made it to Boston
ing the event to say how much fun people had, and what a great
with him, but I had just received my second stem cell transplant
evening it was," Joanna reports. "And it all ran smoothly thanks to
and I was too weak to travel. Back in my three (very active!) chil-
the help of all our amazing volunteers," Alex adds.
dren's school days, I always tried to attend each one of their sport-
Other family members have joined in the fundraising as well,
ing events. I cheered for them at the top of my lungs. Not making it
including Alex's brother Maxwell, planning their own events to sup-
to Boston for Steve's marathon, I felt like I was that young mother
port the cause. And Alex and Joanna are already planning their sec-
again, only this time I was missing one of those very big school
ond annual excuse to misbehave for November 6, 2010. "Without
events that I never, ever missed.
the support of the IMF, my dad would not be where he is today,"
(continues on page 10)
Alex says.
Making Miracles
4
www.myeloma.org
Scooting from Florida
"I'm extremely grateful that my fam-
to Washington, D.C.
ily, friends, co-workers and employ-
ers are so generous in supporting this
On August 1, 2009, Jim Barth left his home in Clearwater, Florida
two-day event," Rob says. And sup-
for the IMF's Patient & Family Seminar in Washington, D.C. He
port it they do! Previous bashes raised
drove there on his scooter, raising money for the IMF along the way.
enough funds to sponsor an IMF Novis
Research Grant and the 2009 event
Jim's Ride-a-thon for Myeloma
raised $20,000 more. By the time
marked the 3-year anniversary of
the October 2010 event is complete,
his own diagnosis. "I have been
Coach Rob's Benefit Bash will be spon-
fortunate to remain stable," Jim
soring a second Novis Research Grant.
reports. "This has allowed me to
defer treatment, maintain relative
"The IMF helped my family and I understand what I was up against,"
quality of life, and have the free-
Rob says. And now: "I am very interested in finding a cure."
dom to keep riding." But, as a co-
founder of his area support group,
"All In" For the IMF
Jim is well aware that not everyone
Jack Aiello is not only a 15-year
is afforded this freedom. "This ride
myeloma survivor and co-leader
was for them," he says, and was
of the Greater Bay Area California
also an opportunity to give back to
myeloma support group he's also
the IMF, which has been "very ben-
a poker enthusiast. For the past six
eficial to myself and I've seen how
years he has hosted an annual poker
their offerings have helped others."
tournament, and for his November 14, 2009 event, donated all of
The 2400-mile round trip ride
the evening's buy-ins to the IMF. "It was a great time spent with
afforded Jim the opportunity
friends doing a good thing!" Jack says.
to reconnect with relatives and
Thirty card sharks anted up for
friends along the way. Upwards of
Jack's 6th Annual Texas Hold
70 people supported Jim's journey by donating more than $5,000.
`Em Tournament. Everyone who
They also followed his adventures through his blog.
lost early stayed and "hovered"
Once he arrived in D.C., "the seminar itself was wonderful as they
around the final table. Jack
always are," Jim reports. He was also the seminar's winner of the
was pleased that the evening
tickets to the IMF's 3rd Annual Gala Celebrating Peter Boyle, a high-
resulted in its sixth different
light of his trip. But the ultimate highlight, Jim says, was arriving
winner in the event's six years.
home at the end of the 2400 miles, "when I was able to see my wife
He was even more pleased that the winner, whose prize included
again."
$100, promptly donated that money back to fight myeloma.
Bashing Myeloma
In total, Jack's 6th Annual Texas Hold `Em Tournament netted over
$3,000 for the cause. "More dollars were raised than ever before
Rob Bradford was diagnosed with myeloma
because the IMF gave me a fundraising web [page on their] site,"
in 2005 and received a transplant seven
Jack reports.
months later. "I felt very fortunate that I had
"I've known the IMF for 15 years," he adds. "They've always been
health insurance and great family and friend
there for the patient."
support," he says. "But I noticed that others
did not." From this gratitude and observa-
Rich Saletan Remembered
tion, Coach Rob's Benefit Bash was born.
Coach Rob
IMF Board Member Rich Sale-
Four years later, Rob's event is big-
tan was beloved by all start-
ger than ever. It now extends over
ing with his children, Steve
two days, encompassing dinner and
Saletan and Liz Berkman. Steve
entertainment on the first evening,
and Liz, along with the rest
and a golf tournament the following
of their family, knew beyond
morning. The October 10-11, 2009
a doubt that creating an IMF
bash included 151 evening revelers enjoying the event's first casino
fundraiser in his memory was the best way to honor his life.
night, as well as an auction, at the Sheraton Orlando North Hotel
in Maitland, Florida. The next day, 140 golfers the most ever
"My Dad had a few great passions in his life," says Steve. "His family
played the links at Rock Springs Ridge Golf Club in Apopka.
was always first and foremost, his business while he was still working,
(continues on page 8)
800-452-CURE (2873)
5
International Myeloma Foundation
AnnualIMFomedyelebration
r AiSES NEAr LY $700,000 for Myeloma Research
On November 7th, 2009, almost 1,200 guests packed the Wilshire Ebell Theatre in Los
Angeles for the IMF's 3rd Annual Comedy Celebration benefiting the Peter Boyle Memo-
rial Fund. The annual fundraiser once again broke IMF fundraising records by bringing
in nearly $700,000 for our award-winning research programs and patient services.
The Annual Comedy Celebration was born when Loraine Boyle, IMF Board member and
wife of the late actor Peter Boyle, reached out to Susie Novis and Dr. Brian Durie with a
profound desire to help make a difference. Having established the Peter Boyle Memorial
Fund, she invited Peter's colleagues and friends to put on a comedy show in his honor
to raise myeloma awareness and funds for the IMF.
This year, Amy and Steve Weiss joined the event as co-chairs. Together with Loraine,
they rounded up an exceptional cast of comedians to come out in support of the
IMF. Ray Romano hosted the evening for the third year in a row, this time sharing
the stage with Jimmy Kimmel, introducing featured appearances by Jason Alexander,
Brad Garrett, Doris Roberts, Bob Saget, and
Fred Willard, and a special musical performance by
Tenacious D featuring Jack Black and Kyle Gass.
Making Miracles
6
www.myeloma.org
r AiSES NEAr LY $700,000 for Myeloma Research
enefitingthe
In addition to the stellar show, the eter
IMF welcomed
oyle
attendees to enjoy a
emorial
pre-show
cocktail party and silent auction. Items up for bid included guitars signed by Sting
and Meat Loaf, boxing gloves from Mohammed Ali and Sugar Ray Leonard, and a
und
fantastic assortment of trips, memorabilia, jewelry, and much more all graciously
donated for the cause, and all making a significant impact on the overall success of
the event.
VIP guests were also treated to a post-show champagne and dessert reception lasting
well into the night.
The IMF would like to thank our presenting sponsors, Celgene and Millennium,
as well as the nearly 30 additional event sponsors for their generous support of an
evening that everyone will remember.
Each performer made the audience laugh`til they cried. The show's
climax was Tenacious D with Jack Black and Kyle Gass performing some
of their hysterical songs.
eedhamN
James
erand
Ruck
Both Presenting Sponsors turned out in great numbers to support the IMF
byCraigos
and the 3rd Annual Comedy Celebration.
Phot
800-452-CURE (2873)
7
International Myeloma Foundation
You Make Miracles Happen continued from page 5
golf, and later in life the IMF." And so
to heal, no power to alleviate the suffer-
when Steve and his family set about
ing. But I could not stand by idle, it's not
to brainstorm the best event to honor
my nature."
Rich, the answer was quite simple. "It
was very easy to marry his passion
And so in Paducah, Kentucky on September
for golf with his passion for the IMF,"
19, 2009, Lisa led the Who's Your Daddy
Steve says.
Bike Rally an event chosen because both
Lisa and her friend are motorcycle enthusi-
Steve Saletan, Ed Rubin, & Ed Fratkin The RHS Open Golf Tournament
asts, and named in honor of the two joints Lisa Cash and Thresa Butler
was planned quickly, finalized only two months before the November
that spanned either end of the ride: Hoddaddy's and Fat Daddy's. In
2009 event, but the support was profound, resulting in almost $11,000
between, the 21 riders participated in a poker run, stopping at check-
for the IMF. Generous donations
points and drawing a playing card at each one. Crowds along the way
stemmed not only from the golf-
cheered the riders on. Lisa also set up a lunch stop at a Harley shop,
ers who participated that day in
manned by volunteering family and friends.
Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, but
also from a large outpouring from
The rally ended at Fat Daddy's, where 100 supporters enjoyed a party,
friends and family all around the
including a live band. In total, Who's Your Daddy raised close to $2,500
country. "I was very honored to
through "riding fees," special logo t-shirt sales, and donations from
have so many friends who could
party-goers who came out for the cause.
Hank Widrow, Ed Fratkin, Suzanne Saletan,
not make the event donate,"
Joyce Kaller, Marian Rubin, and Ed Rubin
Though she was anxious
Liz says.
for it all to come together
Liz and Steve achieved this broad-
well, the event itself was
based support by creating an
nothing less than won-
invitation that not only gave infor-
derful. "I was thrilled
mation about the event, but also
that my friend was able to
highlighted Rich's role in the IMF,
attend," Lisa reports, "and
and why the IMF had mattered so
humbled by the generos-
(L-R) Alisha Bobo, Jenn Morris, Lori Barrett,
much to him. "We received a bunch
Suzanne Saletan, Hank Woodrow,
ity of humankind."
Ali McGregor, Renae McGregor, Thresa Butler
of donations from people that I
and the IMF's Paul Hewitt
To discuss ideas you can put into action in your community, please
had never even met, who had known my dad since as far back as high
call Suzanne Battaglia at 800-452-CURE (2873) or email her at
school," Steve reports. "The highlight for me was reading all of the
sbattaglia@myeloma.org.
notes that came in with the donations. It was great to see how many
lives he had touched."
Honorable Mention
Rich's influence on people not only reaches back, but also extends
In addition to the events and campaigns highlighted in this issue,
forward. "Honoring my dad through this fundraiser is a way for his
there were other events that also contributed to community awareness
memory to live on for my children to never forget what a great PopPop
and funding for myeloma programs and research. Many of these have
he was," Liz says.
been highlighted in past issues of Making Miracles. They were: The
Steve and Liz are already planning their second RHS Open, targeted
Mehalick Family's Jeans and Jewels Gala, Doug and Kate's A Song
for Spring 2011. "We are happy to raise much needed funds in hopes
For Ireland fundraiser, Joseph Bellomo's Spring Forward event,
of one day finding a cure so nobody else has to lose a loved one to this
Slava Rubin's Music Again Myeloma (past grant donor), Sandra
terrible disease," Liz says.
Mendelson-Brown's Mildred's Walk, Erin Smith and Meghan Lowell's
Help From Heaven, Diane Lewis' Carol's Cause, David Johnson's JC
"I'm happy to be honoring my dad's legacy this way," she adds. "But I
Golf Tournament, Carol Klein and Nancy Moses' Afternoon Tea (past
also wish, as all probably do, that I had my dad still here fighting the
grant donors), Mike Smudz's 5K, Darlene Jesse and Tennessee Support
fight."
Group's Jonesboro Days fundraiser, the Stafford Family's WAMP,
Rally Against Myeloma
Melanie Nicols and Suzanne Fiacco's Marguerite Fiacco Memorial Golf
Tournament and Bon Ton fundraiser, Randy Cheney's Pifler's Car Show
As Lisa Cash declares it: "I have a love/hate relationship with myeloma.
fundraiser, Nancy Heuer's Heuer Family Memorial Golf Tournament,
I love a friend who has myeloma, so I hate myeloma."
Stacy Scibetta's Craft Fair fundraiser, Michelle Klein-Hass' Friends of
It was this "love/hate relationship" that
Richie fundraiser, the Pytlik Family's Pytlik Memorial Walk, the Werra
compelled Lisa to create a fundraiser.
Family's Dennis' Fundraiser and Celebration, Kerri Marioni's Salon
"It was an outlet for me to channel
926 Myeloma Awareness fundraser, Denise Vidot's Walk For Myeloma,
something positive and helpful for
Anne Girod's Bridge Blasts Myeloma, and Angelo Fernandez's
my friend," Lisa says. "I had no words
Aslandtrends fundraiser.
Making Miracles
8
www.myeloma.org
Miles for Myeloma 5K continued from page 3
Norwegian Cruise, and a trip to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.
[see
sidebar].
As
a
In all, 2500 tickets were sold, many to people who couldn't be there
myeloma nurse practi-
but were eager to support the cause.
tioner, "Every day I am
witness to the benefits of
For Pat Ward, a Philadelphia support group member who was unable
myeloma research," Ann
to attend the 5K, purchasing an opportunity drawing ticket didn't
says. "Awarding this grant
suffice. The efforts of his peers inspired him to incorporate the 2009
is the first step in getting
Mayor Nutter and the Howell Team
proceeds of his bi-annual Putting With Pat fundraiser directly into
new treatment modalities to our patients."
the Miles for Myeloma 5K coffers adding an additional $18,000 to
the event's success.
Maddie agrees, from the patient perspective. "Knowing that we are
contributing to the expansion of thinking about myeloma makes us
Pat gives full credit to his friend Jim McRae, who runs Putting With
feel as if we are helping to care for ourselves."
Pat, as well as the hundreds of people who continue to support the
cause. "It's amazing how generous people are," he says.
Through the Miles for Myeloma 5K, three support groups joined
together as one powerful fundraising entity. "I am not sure any
For the Miles for Myeloma 5K, determining the beneficiary of this
member of my support group can even now grasp the reality of
generosity was a group decision. Discussions quickly led to the work
what we accomplished," Paula says.
of the IMF. "It sounds like a cliché, but you do want to give back and
let everyone know how much the IMF is doing," Karen says.
For the record, John Garton and Crystal Boyle won the 5K race. But
the real winners were the IMF, and the entire myeloma community.
The three support groups also agreed on the importance of
supporting cutting-edge research. They therefore earmarked a
To create your own event, please contact Suzanne Battaglia at
significant portion of their earnings to fund an IMF Research Grant
SBattaglia@myeloma.org or 800-452-CURE.
Celebrity Jeopardy! for the IMF
Your Efforts Advance
The IMF is grateful for all of its donors
Myeloma Research
and members, so to have one such
supporter famous enough to appear
For the past 17 years, the IMF's Research Grants Program has led
on Celebrity Jeopardy! and smart
the way in identifying, supporting, and developing the world's most
enough to win is really a bonus.
promising myeloma research.
A very big bonus!
Half of the 2010 Brian D. Novis Research Grants were fully funded
On October 15, 2009, television audi-
by IMFers just like you people making a difference through
ences around the country watched
organizing and participating in member fundraisers.
Michael McKean of This is Spinal Tap, Best in Show, and Laverne
This issue's cover story shares how the Philadelphia Multiple
& Shirley fame (among many other projects) face off against NBA
legend Kareem Abdul Jabbar and television journalist Soledad
Myeloma Networking Group, Central New Jersey Support Group
O'Brien. Michael emerged victorious, winning the IMF $50,000. His
and Northern New Jersey Support Group are jointly funding the
triumph funds a 2010 Novis Research Grant.
work of Dr. Vyacheslav Yurchenko through their Miles for Myeloma
5K. Actor Michael McKean's Celebrity Jeopardy! prowess (see
Though everyone who knows Michael appreciates his quick intel-
sidebar to the left) currently funds Dr. Eline Menu's research;
ligence, he in no way felt this victory was pre-determined. As he
Dr. Steffan Nawricki's work is supported by Carol Klein and
declared on the Jeopardy! web site, "I was terrified until the very
Nancy Moses through their Afternoon Tea (featured in our Spring
end that someone was just gonna dance around me and leave me
in the dust. And a little humiliation is actually good for the soul, so
2009 issue).
I knew I'd survive. But I'm glad I won!"
All three of these member fundraisers support Junior Grant awards
This wasn't Michael's first Jeopardy! foray for the IMF. He also
in the amount of $50,000. Information about each grant winner's
played in 2006, earning the IMF $25,000. In 2007, Michael also
research can be found on our web site, www.myeloma.org, and in
generously donated his time and talents to Concert For A Cause,
the Fall 2009/Winter 2010 issue of Myeloma Today.
which raised $45,000 in support of the IMF's programs and ser-
vices. Michael does all of this in memory of Lee Grayson, a dear
There are multiple ways for your member fundraiser to support the
friend since high school; Lee succumbed to myeloma in 2002.
IMF Research Grants Program with plenty of inspiration to draw
from these pages. Support can come from one big event, of course.
Having now reached Celebrity Jeopardy! semi-finalist status, Michael
But it could also draw upon donations accrued over several years of
will continue playing in May 2010 for a chance to win one million
dollars for the IMF! Be sure to visit www.myeloma.org for future
your event. Contact Suzanne Battaglia at SBattaglia@myeloma.org
information including the air dates for this thrilling event.
or (800) 452-2873 to get your event rolling today!
800-452-CURE (2873)
9
International Myeloma Foundation
Marathon continued from page 4
FUNdraising
Across the country, people
So what a wonderful surprise when Steve told me that I didn't have
are bringing their communities
to miss it after all! The wonders of technology! Each marathon run-
together to raise funds and increase
ner had a chip in his or her sneaker so their times could be accu-
public awareness for multiple
rately recorded. This chip also allowed me to "track" my son as
myeloma. The IMF's FUNdraising pro-
he ran. As Steve was gearing up to start the race, I opened up my
gram is designed to help you join the
laptop, staring at the marathon course online. Throughout the race,
fight against myeloma by organizing your own member event. With
I received "alerts" telling me where Steve was on the course and
over 20 years of experience in event organization, our team is ready
how fast he was running. I honestly think my heart was racing as
to help make your fundraiser successful from start to finish. We pro-
fast as his. And just like when he was young, I found myself scream-
vide you with your own web page where your friends and family
ing at the top of my lungs every time a new alert popped up on my
can make secure, tax-deductable donations directly to the IMF in
laptop!
support of your event. We also provide you with myeloma materials
That Steve ran this marathon at all, with everything else that his
and merchandise that will help raise awareness in your community.
life entails, is unbelievable. His race results were even more unbe-
Our team is ready to guide you through the process of selecting,
lievable. Out of a field of 30,000 runners, he placed 421st. Even
planning and implementing a successful fundraiser. Together, we
more importantly, he raised $4,690 for the IMF. What amazing
can keep making miracles!
accomplishments!
An estimated 200 million old cell phones lie neglected in
Being diagnosed with multiple myeloma was bittersweet for me,
America's closets and drawers. Through Cell Phones For A Cure,
as it is for so many of us. Even though my treatment has been a
IMF members can turn these phones into thousands of dollars
difficult journey, through it I have been able to experience the love
in support of myeloma research. For more information, contact
and generosity of my husband, family, and friends in ways I never
Kemo Lee at 800-452-CURE (2873)
would have otherwise known. Steve, his dedication, and everyone's
or KLee@myeloma.org.
donations and prayers are at the heart of this. And because of this I
can truly say, My cup runneth over.
Imagine Moving Forward is the theme
of the IMF's myeloma bracelet. Wear one in
honor, celebration, or in memory of a loved
IMF roducts
one. When people ask you about it, you'll
have a perfect opportunity to spread the
word about multiple myeloma.
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 towards prevention and a cure.
Ribbon of Hope Lapel Pins ($5)
IMF Caps ($15)
IMF T-Shirts ($15)
Daily Caregiver Journal ($25)
Recipes for Research ($15)
IMF...A Brighter Future Visors ($15)
Awareness Bracelets (10-pack for $10)
IMF Holiday Ornaments ($10)
All merchandise can be viewed and/or ordered on our website www.myeloma.org
Making Miracles
10
www.myeloma.org
ixays
toememberthe Cultivatingthefuture
by planting the seeds to sustain the IMF
iNtEr NAtioNAL MYELoMA
FouNdAtioN
There are many ways to remember the International Myeloma
Foundation (IMF) in your estate plans you may be surprised how
modest choices can accomplish so much, and affect so many lives.
Here are six options to consider:
1. Amend an existing insurance policy to add the IMF as an
The Hope Society Sustained Giving Program
additional beneficiary. Or, you could purchase a new policy
With small, easy steps, you can make a huge impact on the continu-
for the IMF's benefit.
ation of the IMF's mission. Hope Society members make simple,
2. Visit your personnel office and ask to amend your group life
secure, recurring contributions to help maintain the level of quality
insurance policy or retirement plan to add the IMF as one of
that you expect from our programs and services.
your beneficiaries.
You tell us how much and how often
3. Instruct your lawyer to prepare a simple, inexpensive codicil
Your monthly or quarterly gift will automatically be charged and
to your existing Will, creating a bequest for the IMF.
you will be at the interval and amount that you choose. Each Janu-
4.
ary, we will send you a statement of all your contributions for the
Deed your house to the IMF and continue to live in it. Your
previous year.
income tax savings from the gift may cover any legal costs
associated with making this arrangement.
Benefits of Membership
5.
Becoming a recurring donor means knowing that the IMF is getting
Leave written instructions for your surviving spouse to
the most out of your contribution by cutting the cost of paper and
include the IMF when redrawing his or her Will.
postage.
6. If you have a sizable estate, let us show you how a Charitable
In addition, by joining The Hope Society, you will receive:
Trust may benefit both you and the IMF. Again, the tax
advantages are significant and may offset any legal costs.
Ribbon of Hope pin
Annual statements
Some of the arrangements suggested above are revocable; others
cannot be changed once established. Some work better with cash,
IMF Friends' Program benefits for your annual giving level
and others with appreciated assets. There are many variations, and
Recognition in future issues of Making Miracles
therefore a giving plan can always be tailored to your needs, desires
And, members at the Friends' Circle level or higher also receive:
and capabilities.
Periodic email updates from some of myeloma's most
Although we do not practice estate planning, Heather Cooper
prominent doctors and researchers.
Ortner will be happy to sit down with you and answer your
questions to help you get the ball rolling. For your protection,
Membership Level
Giving Range
she will also urge you to check with a professional advisor to
Member
$5 $12 Monthly
assist in the process. We welcome you to contact Heather at
$35 to $149 annual y
$10 $37 Quarterly
hortner@myeloma.org or (800) 452-2873.
Supporter
$13 $41 Monthly
$150 to $499 annual y
$38 $125 Quarterly
Friends' Circle
$42 $83 Monthly
$500 to $999 annual y
$126 $250 Quarterly
Mail for the Cure
Associate's Circle
$84 to $208 Monthly
MAIL FOR THE CURE is a simple but very powerful
$1,000 to $4,999 annual y
$251 $1,250 Quarterly
concept with which you can make a big difference.
Partner's Circle
$417 $833 Monthly
Here's how it works: All over the country, people just like you are
$5,000 to $10,000 annual y
$1,251 $2,499 Quarterly
mailing letters to their friends and relatives asking for their sup-
For more information program benefits, or to find out how you can
port of myeloma research and other important IMF programs. We
join The Hope Society and set up your recurring gift, contact Randi
provide you with a specially coded IMF donation envelope and a
Liberman at 818.487.7455 or at rliberman@myeloma.org
letter template, which you can personalize.
800-452-CURE (2873)
11
International Myeloma Foundation
International Myeloma Foundation
NON-PROFIT
12650 Riverside Drive, Suite 206
ORGANIZATION
North Hollywood, CA 91607-3421
U.S. POSTAGE
U.S.A.
PAID
www.myeloma.org
N. Hollywood, CA
(800) 452-CURE (2873)
PERMIT NO. 665
Change Service Requested
oundationF
Myeloma
International
©2010,
U.S.A.in
Dedicated to improving the quality of life of myeloma patients while working toward prevention and a cure.
Printed
Sav e t h e d a t e
In t e r n a t Io n a l My e l o Ma Fo u n d a t Io n
*
WEB-Ba SED, ViRTu a l Su MMiT
Featuring
Dr. Brian G.M. Durie, IMF Chairman of the Board
Dr. S. Vincent Rajkumar, IMF Scientific Advisor and
International Myeloma Working Group Co-Leader
Dr. Shaji Kumar, Lead Principal Investigator, IMF Historical Controls Project
Thursday, May 27, 2010 · 12:00pm PDT / 3:00pm EDT
Join us from the comfort of your own home or office for this exclusive online "webinar"
For more information or to reserve your spot today, please contact
Heather Cooper Ortner, Vice President of Development
hortner@myeloma.org or (800) 452-CURE (2873)
* Members of the Founders Circle contribute a minimum of $10,000 a year