Bob’s Story
In 1998 I was diagnosed with CML, a form of leukemia. I was 28 years old, recently married, no previous
medical issues, active, and on top of the world.
After my diagnosis and initial treatments at the Penn State Hershey Medical Center, my cancer began to move
into an accelerated phase. I was hospitalized and struggled through some tough days with my family and
friends by my side. It was determined at this time that I would need a bone-marrow transplant to survive.
My immediate family was tested with no luck. We then turned to the National Bone Marrow Registry.
Fortunately, a “good” match who was willing to donate, was found within a few months.
Since I had to have an unrelated bone-marrow transplant & the PSHMC did not perform unrelated transplants
at that time, my Oncologist, Dr. Ballard recommended the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle,
WA. My mother, Joan and wife Jen, flew out to Seattle with me in April of 1999 as my caretakers.
I spent four months in Seattle with my mom and my wife by my side with frequent visits from my father,
brothers & other family members and close friends. After weeks of treatments and the transplant I began
a slow recovery.
It was during this time in Seattle that I began to focus on what I could do to help others affected by
cancer & created our slogan, HOPE CURES These thoughts motivated me in my own personal battle - they
empowered me and allowed me to focus on my future. I also realized that I have unique opportunities and
resources through my family’s business that could greatly enhance my fundraising efforts & results.
The funds we have raised benefit cancer research and patient care in
several worthy facilities and foundations such as:
Over the past nine years my faithful side-kick and now fellow cancer survivor (my mom, Joan) & I have organized
several grassroots fundraising efforts. Some of this past year’s events are hi-lited on this site. With
the support of our family, friends, local businesses and many others, we have been able to raise close to
$400,000 to date.
People sometimes ask me if cancer has changed me. The answer is yes, it has changed me & in many ways
it has been a gift. It has reinforced what is truly important to me in my life, family & friendships.
My disease has given me a clear mission in life to help and inspire others who are affected by cancer.
I thank all of you who have supported our cause over the years. Cancer touches so many of us - this
disease does not discriminate. This year alone 560,000 Americans will die from cancer. 1.4 million
people will be diagnosed with some form of cancer. We have a long road ahead of us, but progress is
being made! We have been and will continue to create HOPE for others. I sincerely thank you for your
continued support and generosity .
