Nine former candidates share what inspired them to act.
Fundraiser Spotlights
It’s a recurring blood cancer that typically returns within three to five years. I’m cancer-free because of treatments that were a
direct result of research funding raised prior to my diagnosis. I continue to fundraise in hopes that, if my cancer returns, there’s better treatment.”
Self-Employed Sales Director,
Mary Kay Cosmetics
“I am a chronic
lymphocytic
leukemia survivor.”
KATHY LESLIE
“
When my father was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia, he joined an LLS-sponsored clinical trial that required traveling several hours for treatment. LLS was there not only for my dad but also for my mom. They helped find a hotel, made offers to assist with meals, laundry and transport, and volunteers would sit with her so she had someone to talk to while dad was in the hospital—ensuring she was comfortable and able to best support him.”
“
Associate Vice President, Project/Portfolio Management,
Eli Lilly & Company
TOM FORMAN
“LLS gave my
family more time
as a family.”
There’s more to be done for communities in terms of access to care, treatment and clinical trials. Having the opportunity to speak with elected officials at an LLS volunteer leadership conference in Washington, D.C., inspired me to take action on public policy and advocate for affordable medication, insurance coverage and treatment. Too often we see individuals and families having to decide between paying their mortgage or paying for their medication.”
“
Senior Vice President,
Central Bank
ANTHONY BROOKS
“Patients and
survivors need us
to be their voice.”
Click To Explore More Inspiration From Former Candidates
Sole Proprietor,
Faith, Hope & Love Legacies
Deborah Harrington
“Visionaries don’t see barriers.”
They don’t cave. They only see possibilities and ways to change the future for those impacted by blood cancer.”
“
I’d like to see greater investment in achieving similar cure rates to today’s, but with less toxic treatment. Statistics suggesting that 80% of survivors may have long-term side effects associated with chemotherapy are daunting given how much life children like our daughter have ahead of them.”
“
“I’m the parent of a survivor.”
Division Vice President,
Liberty Mutual
Akbar Khan
LLS’ work provides hope and innovative solutions for patients. The research that it funds leads to treatment options that weren’t available 25 years ago but could’ve made a positive impact for my father and our family.”
“
“My father passed away from cancer at 52.”
CEO & Founder,
Apogee Wealth Advisors
Armen Khadiwala
I was 1 when my father was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma, but because of research, I had him in my life. Everyone knows the severity of cancer, but I don’t think they know the huge impact they can make.”
“
“My father beat cancer and is
still here today.”
I believe the new campaign title ‘Visionaries of the Year’ better represents the LLS mission by shifting focus away from individuals to instead celebrate all candidates, team members and their stories.”
“
“I’m inspired by the strength in others who get up each day and keep fighting.”
Advances in treatment over the past 15 years since my father lost his battle to Hodgkin’s lymphoma show how crucial research is. It helps ensure that more families have special moments with loved ones: more weddings, births, anniversary dinners and backyard picnics.”
“
“We don’t stop until cancer stops.”
Director, Accounts Payables,
National Raisin Company
Kimberly Bedrosian
Business Development Director, American Structurepoint
Angela Frazier
Sales Director,
Made By Gather
Kevin Galko
Visionaries Of The Year Candidates
PRESENTING THE 2023
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LIGHT THE NIGHT
Business leaders raise millions
to cure blood cancers with
the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society