momentum: 2014–2015 annual report · fast facts about sylvester ... john herman lisa hillier eric...
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2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 3
FROM THE MIAMI DOLPHINS
Dear DCC Supporters,
On behalf of the entire Miami Dolphins organization, thank you for your support of DCC V. We were pleased to present a $4.65 million gift for innovative cancer research, with all the funds staying right here in South Florida.
The Miami Dolphins are committed to our community and supporting organizations who care for our fans and their families. We are honored to help the University of Miami build a world-class cancer center for a world-class community!
Special thanks to the DCC V Board of Directors, including Chairman Richard Berkowitz for his leadership and dedication to the DCC and the South Florida community. To the sponsors, riders, runners and walkers – thank you for helping the Miami Dolphins tackle cancer!
I look forward to seeing you all for DCC VI!
Stephen M. Ross Owner, Chairman of the Board Miami Dolphins
TABLE OF CONTENTSFROM THE MIAMI DOLPHINS ....................................... 3
OUR MISSION ................................................................. 5
DCC BY THE NUMBERS ................................................. 6
YOU’RE IN GOOD COMPANY ....................................... 7
OUR HEAVY HITTERS ..................................................... 8
PROFILE: TEAM GINA .................................................. 10
KICK-OFF PARTY ........................................................... 11
OUR PARTNERS ............................................................ 12
PROFILE: WALTER REYES ............................................. 15
FAST FACTS ABOUT SYLVESTER ................................. 16
CHECK PRESENTATION ............................................... 17
PROFILE: YOLANDA HERNANDEZ .............................. 17
FROM SYLVESTER’S DIRECTOR ................................... 19
PROFILE: A.J. DUHE ..................................................... 19
ABOUT SYLVESTER ....................................................... 21
PROFILE: MATT ALLEN ................................................. 21
PROFILE: TEAM LEVINE ............................................... 22
DCC VI ........................................................................... 23
PROFILE: VAUGHN EDELSON...................................... 23
BOARD OF DIRECTORS ............................................... 25
DCC STAFF .................................................................... 25
PROFILE: WILL LEAHY .................................................. 25
FROM OUR LEADERS ................................................... 26
OUR NEW NAME .......................................................... 27
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 5
OUR MISSION
The Dolphins Cycling Challenge is dedicated to improving people’s lives through the financial support of innovative cancer research at the
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
We are honored to be the signature health initiative of the Miami Dolphins Foundation and we hope to continue to inspire and engage
the South Florida community through our bike ride, 5K run/walk, and other events.
We’re proud of how far we have come, and are looking forward to working with each of you to continue building momentum for DCC, year after year.
Together, we can #TACKLECANCER.
DCC BY THE NUMBERS
2010 2011 2012 2013 2015
RIDERS311 860 1,913 2,289 2,358
VOUNTEERS200 350 550 650 700
KID RIDERS50 90 160 200 –
RUNNERS & WALKERS
– – – – 414
RAISED
$533,106 $1,070,000 $2,200,000 $3,100,000 $4,650,000
Since 2010, we have donated a total of $11.55 million to fund innovative cancer research at Sylvester.
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 7
YOU’RE IN GOOD COMPANY.
When it comes to fundraising, our partners and corporate teams get pretty creative, throwing events like “DCC Jeans Fridays,” company bake sales, and even a golf tournament.
Plus, DCC V marked our largest growth in point-of-sale programs, with support from companies like Walgreens, Frito-Lay, Johnsonville, Anthony’s Coal-Fired Pizza, and Papa John’s. These programs create unique marketing opportunities for both the companies and the DCC, while helping to raise funds for cancer research.
DCC donation cards were placed at the register of all Walgreens stores in South Florida for two weeks. At check-out, cashiers asked customers if they wanted to help “tackle cancer.” The answer was a resounding “Yes!” and the promotion raised more than $100,000. Thank you, Walgreens, for letting us share your corner of Happy & Healthy!
For the Miami Dolphins vs Green Bay Packers home game, Johnsonville drove their “Big Taste Grill” to Miami to serve up some delicious brats. DCC staff manned the grill and served fans pre-game outside the stadium. Johnsonville donated 100% of the proceeds to the DCC. Way to go, Johnsonville!
Frito-Lay and Publix collaborated on a program in which a percentage of every Smartfood®
Popcorn bag sold at Publix was donated to the DCC. The promotion ran for three weeks in South Florida locations, with the DCC reaping the rewards of Americans’ love for their favorite popcorn brand. Thanks, Frito-Lay!
OVER $100,000
Matt Allen
Carlos Gonzalez
Stuart Miller
Stephen Nimer
OVER $50,000
Paul Castronovo
Jon Jaffe
Joseph Natoli
Walter Reyes
Jim Werbelow
OVER $25,000
Richard Berkowitz
Lisa Bernstein
Pascal Goldschmidt
Jerry Goodwin
Bruce Gross
Yolanda Hernandez
Mohammad Jahanzeb
George A. Pincus
Leslie Miller Saiontz
OVER $10, 000
Ron Baer
Rick Beckwitt
Andrew Berkowitz
Jim DiLullo
Vaughn Edelson
Andrew Eidelberg
Eric Feder
John Herman
Lisa Hillier
Eric Horowitz
Krishna Komanduri
Ronnie Levine
Marc Lippman
David Lubarsky
Michael Mandich
Bonnie Mandich
Greg McPherson
Robert Merlin
Ben Moody
Eric Pfeil
Paul Riemer
Craig Robins
Joseph Rosenblatt
Celia Schieffelin
Anthony Seijas
Ronan Swords
Deede Weithorn
John Zamora
OVER $5,000
Danette Alfonso
Jose Alonso
Ira Baer
Jeffrey Bass
Nancy Batchelor
Jon Batchelor
Andrew Bernstein
David Burstyn
Deborah Caplan
Amanda Chase
Sean Clancy
Bruce Clipson
Alex Daly
AJ Duhe
Rudy Fernandez
George Fetko
Dominick A. Froio, Jr.
Tom Garfinkel
Paul Genke
Marcie Getelman Reimer
Sean Gill
Tom Glaser
Jacob Glaser
Joshua Goldstein
Sandy Grossman
Jarett Grushka
Joe Halprin
Steve Harmon
William Hearon
Mark Johnson
Ron Katz
Jonathan Kingsley
Rick Kolb
Jeff Krasnoff
Cristian LaCapra
Paola Lieto
Christina Mandich
Mary jane Mark
Mike Maroone
Jim Mehalso
Lauren Miller
Sarah Moody
Sheryl Moore
Michael Pappas
Matt Papunen
Jeffrey Peck
Arturo Pena
Richard Pollack
Juan Porro
Pedro Portela
Mario Romine
Ronald Rubinoff
Michael Samuels
Steve Schieffelin
Mark Skweres
Bill Sternheim
Mark Sustana
Jimmy Tate
Kenny Tate
Toomas Truumees
OVER $2,500
Geoffrey Aaronson
Thomas Abraham
Raul Aguilera
Ela Alayon
Robert Alderman
Wilson Alers
Ruth Ames
Ric Arango
Carolina Arenas
Mia Ares-Borcky
Paulo Bacchi
Bruno Bacchi
David Baer
Robert Baer
Melissa Bales
Richard Ballard
Glen Barber
Michael Basch
Rene Beal
Peggy Benua
Michael Berkowitz
Cliff Beverly
Tony Blank
Allen Blenden
Mark Block
Bonnie Blomberg
Don Boerema
Kim Bokamper
Tim Borcky
Anne Bramman
Bruce Brecheisen
Jane Broderick
Piero Buitano
Jill Burg
Harry Burg
John Butler
Tom Calloway
Patrick E. Campbell
Dan Caspersen
Rudayna Chanouha
Omar Chanouha
Jonathan Chase
Nicole Christodoulou
Chris Clements
John Costa
Maximo Cruz
Joe Curbelo
Richard Danahy
Scott Davis
Marc deBaptiste
Jeff Dellenbach
Darci DeMatteo
Clara Diaz-Leal Parker
Ellen Downey
Mark N. Edoff
Michael Essington
Rene Estevez
Lauren Fallick
Carlos E Fernandez
Franco Ferracci
John Flood
Veronica Flores
Brent Fonner
Edward Forbes
Faith Anne Forbes
Allison Freidin
Alissa Gargano
William Gargano
Matthew Ginsberg
Chris Glenn
Gabriel Gonzalez
Louis Gonzalez
James Goodwin
Melissa Gracey
Ivy Greaner
Claudia Grillo
Daniel Gross
David Haber
Bill Hake
Jerri Halgowich
Jessica Halprin
Karen Hammond
Henry Hernandez
Ted Hockenberry
James Hoffman
Geoffrey Horst
Jeffery Hoyos
Kent Infante
Valerie Jenkins
Abbey Kaplan
Kristin Karp
Arden Karson
Dan Katz
Josh Katz
Sue Kawalerski
Brian Kettler
James Kirvin
Avery Klann
Tammy Klingler
Daniel Klumpp
Erin Kobetz
Keith Koenig
Robert Kopanicak
Billy Krauss
Jo-Anne Kunin
Gianni LaCapra
Steven Laskowski
Sanford Lechner
Carl Lender
Glen Levine
Tim Lewis
Nick Mandich
Mark Mandich
Chris Mandich
Charles Maxey
Jessica Mayer
Betsy McCoy
Anne McNamara
Ashwin Mehta
Adrienne Messing
Carlos Migoya
David Miller
DCC V HEAVY HITTERS
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 9
Brad Miller
Jerrett Montgomery
Nat Moore
John Moore
Devin Moss
Andrew Munn
Ryan Murphy
Don Nardini
Luis Navarro
Joseph Navarro
Steve Nouss
Christina Pappas
Bari Pasternack
Axay Patel
Dennis Patin
Maxwell Pawk
Joey Perez
Susie Perez
Michael Petrolino
David Podein
Alan Pollack
George Radu
Brittany Reid
David Reimer
Frederick Rich
Joan Richardson
Dan Richey
Christopher Roberts
Nelson A. Rodriguez-Varela
Jacob Roffman
Stan Rudman
Twan Russell
Brent Saiontz
Antonieta Sauerteig
Andrew Scibelli
PJ Senoski
Jorge Serna
Tom Shea
Chris Shea
Carole Sheets
Terry Shore
Jeff Shupert
Lisa Siegel
Michael Simkins
Adam Singer
Gabriel Sirkman
Tim Sorensen
Sean Spire
Allan Spiro
Hernan Spivak
Mary Ann Sprinkle
Scott Sproull
Gina Stelnik
Roger Storms
Kenneth Strauss
Craig Studnicky
Joe Suarez
Jack Sznapstajler
Sandy Tate
Sara Teeter
Thinh Tran
Laura Van Gorden
Griffin Van Nest
Fernando Vilela
Mayco Villafana
Carlos Villanueva
H B Warren
Andrew Weisenborn
H. Jordan Weitz
Ryan Whitten
Shadi-Omar Williams
Thelma Williams
Aaron Wolfson
Jayson Yao
Eric Zeitlin
Adam Zissman
OVER $600,000
Stuart Miller
OVER $200,000
Matt Allen
Carlos Gonzalez
Joseph Natoli
Stephen Nimer
OVER $100,000
Richard Berkowitz
Eric Feder
Pascal Goldschmidt
Jerry Goodwin
Jon Jaffe
Michael Mandich
Bonnie Mandich
George Pincus
James Werbelow
OVER $75,000
Rick Beckwitt
Paul Castronovo
Jim DiLullo
Bruce Gross
Mohammad Jahanzeb
Walter Reyes
Dan Richey
Joseph Rosenblatt
OVER $50,000
Mike Dee
Michael Maroone
Leslie Miller Saiontz
Celia Schieffelin
OVER $25,000
Lisa Bernstein
Alex Daly
Barbara Havenick
William Hearon
Yolanda Hernandez
Eric Horowitz
Ron Katz
Krishna Komanduri
Greg McPherson
Jim Mehalso
Robert Merlin
Jeffrey Peck
Jimmy Tate
Deede Weithorn
OVER $10,000
Ron Baer
Ira Baer
Glen Barber
Jeffrey Bass
Andrew Berkowitz
Bruce Brecheisen
Mark Brockelman
David Burstyn
Omar Chanouha
Jonathan Chase
Nicole Christodoulou
Sean Clancy
Bruce Clipson
John Costa
Joe Curbelo
Richard Danahy
Vaughn Edelson
Andrew Eidelberg
Jason Emmett
Rudy Fernandez
Paul Genke
Marcie Getelman Reimer
Tom Glaser
Jacob Glaser
Allan Goldstein
Sandy Grossman
Jarett Grushka
David Haber
Bill Hake
John Herman
Lisa Hilllier
Arden Karson
Avery Klann
Rick Kolb
Cristian LaCapra
Ronnie Levine
Marc Lippman
David Lubarsky
Christina Mandich
Mary Jane Mark
Carlos Migoya
David Miller
Sarah Moody
Ben Moody
Nat Moore
Devin Moss
Terry Mullen
Luis Navarro
Gil Oren
Chris Palermo
Mike Pappas
Matt Papunen
Allegra Parisi
Dennis Patin
Arturo Pena
Michael Petrolino
Eric Pfeil
David Podein
Alan Pollack
Pedro Portela
Fred Rich
Paul Riemer
Craig Robins
Ron Rubinoff
Stan Rudman
Twan Russell
Michael Samuels
Kenneth Schwartz
Anthony Seijas
Jorge Serna
Mark Sustana
Ronan Swords
Kenny Tate
Griffin Van Nest
Andrew Weisenborn
John Zamora
LIFE
TIM
E H
EA
VY
HIT
TER
S
TEAM GINA
Led by one of Miami’s most well-known radio hosts, Paul Castronovo – of “The Paul and Young Ron Morning Show” fame on BIG 105.9 – Team Gina is a loving tribute to Paul’s wife Gina, a survivor of cancer.
Paul explains, “Becoming part of DCC was a no-brainer for me. I wanted to honor Gina and her battle with breast cancer, plus I needed to lose some weight. Gina won her battle, but I’m still fighting a losing battle with my weight!”
Paul is encouraged by seeing the numbers of riders grow each year, and enjoys the sense of community created by the event. “From the teams, to the families cheering from the sidelines, to the amazing support staff – everyone pulls together to make the event a home run.”
In addition to riding, Paul uses his platform as a radio personality to promote DCC. He tells his listeners how to get involved, and hosts a “Martinis & Meatballs” event each December as Team Gina’s signature fundraiser.
After the event, Paul and Gina host a wrap party for the team at their house, with help
from Anthony and his crew from Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza and Bruce Hunter from Shaw Ross wines. The two companies have been sponsors of Team Gina since day one.
“When you or someone you know is facing cancer, it’s easy to feel helpless. Getting involved with DCC – as a rider, a runner, volunteer, a sponsor, or whatever works for you – gives you the chance to make a real difference. Gina and I know first-hand just how important Sylvester’s research is, and DCC plays a large role in funding that.”
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 11
AND HERE’S THE KICK-OFF.
DCC V kicked off Friday night with a party at Sun Life Stadium. Participants picked up their weekend credentials, took photos with players, cheerleaders, and TD, mingled with their teams, and carbo-loaded with a hearty pasta dinner.
The Miami Dolphins and DCC media partner, WFOR CBS4, broadcast a live 30-minute program from the party with co-anchors Rick Folbaum and Irika Sargent. The program covered why DCC riders participate, the logistics of implementing a tri-county ride, and the history of the DCC, along with live interviews of Dolphins’ players and alumni, with breaks showcasing Sylvester’s work with patients.
In addition, WFOR ran public service announcements for the DCC for six months leading up to the event. Between the team of anchors and reporters who rode in the event, the live kick-off special, and WFOR’s generous in-kind support, we can’t imagine a more rewarding partnership.
12
OUR PARTNERS
Due to the generosity of our corporate partners, we are able to direct 100% of participant-raised funds to the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 15
WALTER REYES 1963-2015
Walter rode in just one DCC event. But he made an impact that will be felt for years to come.
As the CFO of Keyes Company and Captain of Team Keyes, Walter set a goal of recruiting 100 Keyes associates to raise $100,000 for DCC V. He ended up with 150 people on his team, and raised an incredible $170,000.
While at a Dolphins charitable event, he met fellow DCC rider Henry Hernandez. The two began training together a few times a week. In January 2015, Walter and Henry were out cycling when a car struck them from behind. Henry was critically injured, but Walter died at the scene. Everyone who knew him was devastated. His light had shone so bright.
Three weeks later, Team Keyes rode in DCC V to honor Walter, accompanied by his wife and daughters. They completed the ride surrounded by the people who had loved and admired him – including all of us at the DCC.
Walter taught us how to work with companies and motivate employees. He showed us what one man with limitless passion and enthusiasm can accomplish. Though he’s gone, he’ll always be part of us. Miss you, Walter. See you at the finish line.
FAST FACTS ABOUT SYLVESTER
To learn more about groundbreaking research and cancer care at Sylvester, visit Sylvester.org.
Six treatment facilities
throughout South Florida, with a seventh opening
in Coral Gables in 2016 at The Lennar Foundation
Medical Center on the University of
Miami campus
The only cancer center in South Florida to be
named a Cancer Center of Excellence by the
Florida Surgeon General
More than 40% of Sylvester’s patients
are from Broward and Palm Beach Counties
250 physicians and
scientists devoted exclusively to cancer
care and research
Multidisciplinary clinics include chemotherapy, radiation
oncology, imaging, stem cell transplant, interventional radiology, pain program, surgery, psycho-social/
integrative medicine, and pediatric oncology
More than
7,000 patients each year
More than 3,400 patients have participated in
approximately 200 clinical trials each
year at Sylvester since 2012
First opened in
1973
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 17
RAISING MILLIONS? CHECK.
On behalf of the 2,800 DCC riders, runners, walkers, sponsors, volunteers, and donors, the Miami Dolphins presented the DCC V gift to Dr. Stephen Nimer and the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center on April 25, 2015 at Sylvester’s Annual Gala.
The $4.65 million gift represents 100% of participant-raised funds and will be used by Sylvester to make life-changing discoveries leading to more individualized treatments, better outcomes, and more hope for patients.
YOLANDA “YOLY” HERNANDEZ Director, Special Projects University of Miami Miller School of Medicine Development OfficeYoly is more than an employee of Sylvester. She’s also a cancer survivor who’s been in remission for 25 years, and one of Team UM Sylvester’s top fundraisers for DCCV, having raised $30,510.
“My secret is being enthusiastic about what the DCC does and passing that on to my extensive network of grateful patients, family, friends, and colleagues. Because of my own cancer survival story, they understand the importance of this fundraiser and rally behind me every year.”
Yoly believes it’s vital to understand that Sylvester is the only academic cancer center in the South Florida region. She explains, “Our team of experts discover, develop, and deliver the world’s most effective ways to prevent, detect, and treat cancer. But more important, funds raised for Sylvester stay in South Florida, guaranteeing that the day you or a loved one may need cancer treatment, you won’t have to go very far.”
Yoly is not a cyclist, so she participates in DCC as a Virtual Rider. She also volunteers at the event, cheering on her teammates and the rest of the DCC participants. “Whether you ride, run, walk, or volunteer, you can make a big impact.” Yoly certainly has.
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 19
A.J. DUHE Former Linebacker for the Miami Dolphins
Linebackers are known to be the toughest guys on the field. So it’s a good thing we’ve got A.J. on Team Dolphins, helping us tackle cancer.
“To me, there’s no goal as important as finding a cure for cancer. I lost both of my parents to cancer, my wife Frances lost her dad when he was in his 60s, my brother-in-law passed away in his early 50s, and so many of my friends have lost loved ones at an early age. It’s just an awful, awful disease.” A.J. says soberly.
While he may have been aggressive on the field, A.J. prefers a more subtle approach when it comes to fundraising. “I emailed 300 people, telling them why DCC is so important to me, and then I sent a couple of follow-up emails.”
Evidently, it worked – A.J. raised close to $7,500. Plus, he got to catch up with fellow Dolphin alumni in the hospitality tent, reminiscing about old football games and planning next year’s ride for the DCC.
“I’m getting in shape now so I can do a longer ride, and talking my wife, Frances, into joining me.” Sounds like a winning strategy to us.
FROM SYLVESTER’S DIRECTOR
Dear Friends,
Thank you! You helped us raise a record amount of $4.65 million in February for DCC V. Through the generosity of our sponsors, every dollar raised at the DCC supports groundbreaking cancer research at the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Your support comes at a critical time for cancer research. Gone are the days when cancers were defined solely by their location and stage. Today, through advances here at Sylvester and at academic cancer centers around the nation, we’re striving to analyze the make-up of each person’s cancer, to determine what’s driving its growth and - most importantly - to learn what will prevent it from growing.
Specifically, your generosity during DCC V is helping us fund these critical research areas at Sylvester:
Precision Medicine - With your help, we’re able to discover, develop and deliver more personalized ways to prevent, diagnose and treat each patient’s cancer. And that will lead to faster responses, fewer side effects, better outcomes and more hope.Cancer Prevention, Control and Survivorship - Research in this program aims to lead innovative, high impact cancer control research - within South Florida’s diverse population - to reduce the burden of cancer disparities and to allow patients to return to normal lives as quickly as possible.Pediatric Oncology - The Institute for Children and Adolescents with Cancers at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center will house an adolescent-to-young-adult program to prevent, detect, and treat all forms of cancer afflicting this special group.Team Science - Your funds also will be used to support projects with a focus on collaborative efforts to address the key scientific challenges we face that require expertise in many different areas of cancer research; putting together world class teams is a main focus of our cancer center.
Your investment helps us provide life-saving treatments and hope to more cancer patients in South Florida than ever before. Equally as exciting, our work is leading to better outcomes for our patients - outcomes that are far better than those achieved at other hospitals throughout the nation.
But our work isn’t nearly done, and neither is yours. Together, we can reduce the burden of cancer on our society. Please help us achieve our shared vision. Keep riding, running, walking, and supporting the DCC. On behalf of the thousands of cancer patients, specialists, cancer researchers and staff at Sylvester, I thank you for your efforts from the bottom of my heart.
Stephen D. Nimer, M.D. Director, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 21
One in two men and one in three women will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. That means moms, dads, wives, husbands, sons, daughters and other loved ones will hear those dreaded three words, “You have cancer.”
But at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami’s Miller School of Medicine, we work every day to discover, develop, and deliver the most comprehensive diagnostics and the most effective targeted therapies for each patient’s individual cancer. Today, our discoveries – and the discoveries of other cancer research powerhouses throughout the nation – are revolutionizing the way cancers are prevented, detected, treated, and cured.
Here, more than 130 oncologists – each specializing in just one type of cancer – work with more than 115 cancer researchers to understand what’s driving each patient’s cancer. Then, we deliver the most targeted therapies in the world, leading to better outcomes than we could have dreamed of even a few short years ago. Every year, more than 7,000 newly diagnosed cancer patients find help and hope at our flagship center in Miami and at our outpatient facilities conveniently located throughout South Florida.
At Sylvester, we have witnessed the power of discovery and harnessed it for the advancement of prevention, detection, and treatment of individual cancers. Today, our cancer experts and researchers work in teams to realize Harcourt Sylvester Jr.‘s vision of a center with comprehensive, groundbreaking cancer care. That’s because cancer is not one simple disease, but rather hundreds of diseases, all with different drivers that fuel growth, resistance, survival, and movement.
We believe that the most effective means to prevent, detect and treat unique cancers will not come from isolated clinical trials or researchers working alone. Instead, it will come from the collective minds of cancer researchers and other experts, pooling their knowledge and arriving at new solutions together. This collaborative research – or team science – is furthered every day with the funds generated by the DCC.
We bring together some of the world’s best minds in cancer research and clinical care, and relentlessly pursue our dream of a world where no one knows cancer. Recruiting highly specialized and talented research scientists and physicians is of vital importance. By bringing the best and the brightest to South Florida, Sylvester is able to provide the best cancer care in the region. And that expertise is funded in part by the dollars raised through the DCC.
Our research is recognized by some of the world’s most prestigious funding organizations and scientific publications. We have nearly 200 cancer clinical trials underway, and receive nearly $25 million annually in research grants. We are accredited by some of the nation’s most impressive organizations, including The Joint Commission, the American Society of Clinical Oncology Quality Oncology Practice Initiative, Health Grades’ Patient Safety Award, and a State of Florida Cancer Center of Excellence.
Most important, we collectively hold a passion for living in a world without cancer. We work tirelessly each day to bring discoveries from the lab to the clinic, so that from bench to bedside, we’re delivering the most effective cancer treatments. And all that results in better outcomes, faster responses, fewer side effects, and more hope.
SYLVESTER COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTERMATT ALLEN Five-Year Heavy Hitter Captain, Team Related
“Related is committed to the well-being of our community and our employees. So the Dolphins Cycling Challenge is a natural fit for us,” says Matt Allen, EVP and Chief Operating Officer of the Related Group.
Matt, who serves on our board, led one of DCC’s largest teams. “Related employees trained for months in order to bike, run, or walk in DCC V. We also had family, friends, and co-workers who volunteered, helped fundraise, and cheered from the sidelines.” Together, they raised more than $385,000 for Sylvester.
Even Matt’s kids and their friends got into the act, creating a Halloween Haunted House that raised $1,200 in donations for DCC.
“Even though they’re kids, they’ve been affected by cancer, too.” Matt’s father-in-law, and the children’s grandfather, was diagnosed with an advanced case of bone cancer a few years ago.
“He was given less than a 2% chance, but he survived. This brought home how lucky we are to have an institution of Sylvester’s caliber right here in South Florida. And there’s nothing I won’t do to support it.”
TEAM LEVINE
“I will never forget the quiver in my mother’s voice when she first told me that she was diagnosed with cancer. I promised myself that I would get her the best care possible, and that I would help lead the family in a campaign to beat this diagnosis,” Glen Levine tells us.
“Fortunately, I already knew that Sylvester was a world-class cancer treatment center, because of my previous involvement with the Dolphins and DCC.” The Levine family are long-time supporters of the Dolphins, and have held season tickets since 1984. So when they first announced DCC I, Glen decided to do the Century Ride.
“I had never ridden such a distance, and the challenge of doing so in the aqua and orange was daunting, but hard to resist. I crossed the finish line at City Place to cheers of friends, family, and strangers. Best of all was the pride I saw in my children’s eyes.”
Anidjar & Levine, Glen’s law firm, has sponsored every DCC since its inception. And Glen has participated in close to 100 competitions including all the subsequent DCC rides, Ironmans, marathons, and some shorter races. “But it all started with DCC.”
When the date for DCC V was announced, Glen’s mother was in the middle of her treatment at Sylvester.
Glen quickly organized his entire family – including all eight grandchildren – into a team to run the 5K. “We raised almost $20,000! And all of that money went directly to cancer research, which was so important to my family and our supporters.”
As it happened, the date of the run coincided with the end of Glen’s mother’s cancer treatment. “To our family, running the race together was symbolic of my mother’s victory over cancer, and the love and concern that got her to the finish line.”
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 23
GET READY FOR DCC VI
DCC VI will take place on Saturday, February 20, 2016, but we’ll begin gearing up for the big event with the inaugural Fall Family Fest, held on two dates in November in Ft. Lauderdale and Miami. This fun-filled day starts with a family bike ride, in which kids aged 3 to 16 will be able to ride safely on closed streets with their families.
After the ride, celebrate with us as we watch the Dolphins away game and enjoy fall festival activities, including a special kids zone and great food and drinks. You can even register on site for the upcoming DCC VI event in February.
November 8 – Fort Lauderdale
November 15 – Miami
DCC VI – February 20, 2016
Starting this year, the DCC will be a one-day ride with all the routes ending at the stadium, so you can celebrate at the finish line party with your friends, family, and colleagues. There will also be a concert, kids zone, and delicious food and beverages.
ROUTES
5k Run/Walk Sun Life Stadium
Dolphins Ride 13 miles from Dolphins Training Camp
1st & 25 25 miles from Fort Lauderdale
Miami Ride 28 miles from UM Campus
Boca Ride 50 miles from Boca Raton
Perfect Season Ride 72 miles from West Palm Beach
Hurricanes Hundred Loop 100 miles starting/ending at Sun Life Stadium
Information on each route and associated fundraising requirements can be found at RideDCC.com.
VAUGHN EDELSON Two-Year Heavy Hitter Devoted Daughter
Vaughn supports the DCC because it combines her passion for cycling with funding for cancer research —something that became particularly important to her in 2013 when her father was diagnosed with nodal marginal zone lymphoma.
“During DCC V, my dad was 10 days post-stem cell transplant. So Sylvester was dad’s second home—hence mine, too—since October 2014.”
Vaughn notes that talking about cancer, even when fundraising, can be hard. “But when you open your heart and explain the reason why you are asking for support, people respond with amazing generosity. So don’t be afraid to ask. We can’t all be doctors or researchers, but everyone wants to help. Give them that opportunity. And take advantage of social media!”
Unfortunately, Vaughn’s father passed away in April. Her resolve for riding next year is now even stronger.
“I’m doing it for the physical challenge, I’m doing it because it makes me feel like I’m making a difference, and I’m doing it because I had so much fun at DCC V. But most of all, I’m doing it in memory of my dad, and in hopes that I can help other families who are facing a cancer diagnosis.”
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 25
EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
Tom GarfinkelChairmanPresident & CEO Miami Dolphins
Eric FederVice-ChairmanPresident Lennar Commercial
Richard BerkowitzImmediate Past ChairmanCEO, Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants
Matt AllenExecutive Vice President & COO Related Group
Stuart MillerCEO, Lennar Corporation
Nat MooreSVP, Alumni Relations & Special Projects, Advisor to CEO, Miami Dolphins
Joe NatoliSenior VP, Business & Finance, University of Miami
Jeff PeckPresident, Southern Refrigeration Engineers/Gold Coast Repairs
George PincusShareholder, Stearns Weaver
ADVISORY BOARD
Marshall AmesChairman, Lennar Foundation
Marcus Bach-ArmasDirector, Corporate & Legal Affairs, Miami Dolphins
Richard BallardCEO, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Jeremy CamposSenior Director of Finance Operations, Miami Dolphins
Deborah CaplanEVP, Human Resources & Corporate Services, NextEra Energy
Dr. William J. GoodwinChief Medical Officer, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Jason JenkinsSenior Vice President, Communications & Community Relations, Miami Dolphins
Shira KastanAVP, Strategic Relations, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Todd KlineSenior Vice President, Chief Commercial Officer, Miami Dolphins
Luis NavarroPartner, Navarro Hernandez PL
Dr. Stephen NimerDirector, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Jeff ShupertVice President, AutoNation
STAFF
Michael MandichCEO
Jennifer DeWittDirector of Communications and Corporate Team Development
Amanda ChaseDirector of Operations and Logistics
Will LeahyOperations Manager
Alec HamiltonPartnerships Manager
Olivia TrubyCommunications Coordinator
Anthony KarpinskiOperations Coordinator
DCC VI: 2015-2016 BOARD OF DIRECTORS
WILL LEAHY DCC, Manager of Logistics & Operations
“My best tip for fundraising? Make it personal. Let people know why you are doing what you are doing, who you are doing it for, and what it means to you,” recommends Will Leahy.
In 2012, Will signed up for DCC III’s Century Ride. “I had very little experience with cycling, and had never ridden more than 20 miles. But my cousin Austen had recently passed away from Non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. She was the epitome of a fighter, so I fought through my own obstacles, and rode 100 miles in her honor. And there are thousands of stories just like mine.”
Inspired by those stories, Will decided to come work for us. “Being able to say that my going to work every day helps people live longer – that’s an amazing feeling. And I know that’s something I can hold on to as long as I work for DCC.”
Another amazing feeling? “Being at the finish line as the first riders start coming in, with hundreds of people lined up to cheer them on. It’s been incredible to see the community’s growing support for DCC. And being part of the team that gives everything they’ve got to pull off this world-class event is beyond rewarding.”
Friends,
Like life, time seems to speed up as we mature. The 15 months between DCC IV and V flew
by. As a participant in the DCC since the very first year, I am struck by how much we have
accomplished in such a short period of time; we went from raising $500,000 our first year, to
raising over $4.65 million in year five, bringing our total to $11.55 million since 2010. There’s
no stopping us now.
DCC’s success is fueled by the courage of our supporters who ride, run, walk, volunteer, and
donate – asking their loved ones, colleagues, peers, and strangers to spare what they can
for such an important cause. Last year alone, those brave requests resulted in over 32,000
individual donations.
Cancer touches just about everyone, myself included. That’s why Sylvester Comprehensive
Cancer Center is vital to the South Florida community. Without a world-class cancer center
in our own backyard, we simply can’t call ourselves a world-class community. Sylvester is now
poised to be designated as a National Cancer Institute — and the Miami Dolphins and the
Dolphins Cycling Challenge can help get them over the goal line.
We only kicked this game off five years ago, but we’ve got momentum on our side. And we
won’t stop until we #TACKLECANCER once and for all.
On behalf of the DCC team, thank you. We look forward to many more years to come!
Michael Mandich
CEO, Dolphins Cycling Challenge
FROM OUR LEADERSDear DCC V Supporters,
2015 was a transformative year for the Dolphins Cycling Challenge. Here are just a few things we
accomplished:
Moved the event to a new permanent date in February after the SuperBowl
Created a new party on Friday night to kick off the weekend
Built a village for the start and finish
Added a 5K run/walk to expand the number of participants and fundraising choices
Expanded our Heavy Hitter fundraisers from 170 to more than 300
Increased our donation to the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center by 50% to
$4,650,000!
Each year, cancer fighters have come together to ride, walk, and run to raise money for Sylvester
Comprehensive Cancer Center. In just five years, the Dolphins Cycling Challenge has grown into
the largest NFL event-fundraiser and one of South Florida’s most anticipated events. To date, we’ve
raised $11.5 million to fight cancer in our community.
Cancer is the plague of our generation. It strikes randomly – young or old, male or female, rich or
poor. Cancer does not care who you are or whom you love, what you do or what you stand for. There
is not a person among us who has not been touched by this disease.
I am deeply grateful for the support and commitment of my fellow board members, our sponsors
and team captains, our Heavy Hitters and all of our individual donors. Special thanks are also due
to our DCC staff, the staff of the Miami Dolphins, the University of Miami and our cornerstone
sponsors, Lennar and AutoNation.
Most of all, I’d like to thank the thousands of individuals who volunteered, biked, ran and walked
in DCC V. Thanks to your hard work and enthusiasm, we are helping the Sylvester Comprehensive
Cancer Center become a National Cancer Institute-designated facility which will allow it to continue
innovative research and treatment programs for the benefit of everyone in our community touched
by cancer.
I am truly honored to have had the privilege of chairing DCC V. My heartfelt thanks go out to you all.
Richard A. Berkowitz Chairman, DCC V
Chief Executive Officer
Berkowitz Pollack Brant Advisors and Accountants
nge
2014–2015 ANNUAL REPORT 27
WHAT’S IN A NAME?
With thousands of participants raising millions of dollars, the Dolphins Cycling Challenge has become a signature event for the Miami Dolphins
and a beacon of hope in South Florida’s fight against cancer.
We’re proud of what you’ve helped us accomplish through the Dolphins Cycling Challenge. In just five years, we’ve raised over $11.5 million, 100% of which funds innovative cancer research at Sylvester. But as we’ve evolved, our mission has expanded, and so has the event itself. That’s why we’re changing
our name from the Dolphins Cycling Challenge to the Dolphins Cancer Challenge.
Our new name respects our roots and the impact already made, while encompassing our expanded goals and increased options for participation. To learn more about
what we’re planning for the future, please visit DolphinsCancerChallenge.com.
already made, while encompassing articipation. To learn more about ure, please visit p g
DolphinsCancerChallen, p
nge.com.
The Dolphins Cycling Challenge is a REGISTERED 501 (c) (3) organization, and all donations to PARTICIPANTS are fully tax-deductible. A copy of the official registration and financial information may be obtained from the division of consumer services by calling toll-free (800) 435-7352 within the state referencing license #CH36491. Registration does not imply endorsement, approval or recommendation by the state. 100% of contributions will be utilized by Dolphins Cycling Challenge, Inc. to advance cancer awareness, research, or fundraising initiatives.
Dolphins Cycling Challenge 347 Don Shula Drive Miami Gardens FL 33056
[email protected] 305.943.6799
© Dolphins Cycling Challenge Inc. All rights reserved.