Welcome to “The Good Stuff,” where we highlight positive news and ways that NAED employees and member companies go above and beyond to give back to their communities! If you have some “Good Stuff” that you would like to share with tED, find out how below.
In this issue of “The Good Stuff”, a Mayer employee’s cancer journey inspired a $100,000 donation to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
ATLANTA — Mayer, a Rexel USA banner company, announced a $100,000 donation to the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center following its inaugural Mayer United Gala held Thursday, Oct. 23, at the College Football Hall of Fame. The gift was made possible by the Rexel Foundation and numerous individual donors.
The donation will support sarcoma research at Sylvester, part of the University of Miami Health System and a National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center. The gift was made in honor of Brian Balmes, Mayer’s Southeast Industrial Market Manager, who has lived with a rare cancer diagnosis for 27 years and has undergone treatment for nine tumors during that time.
Balmes was diagnosed with Myxoid Round Cell Liposarcoma in 1998. Since then, he has faced a series of tumor recurrences, requiring 38 rounds of chemotherapy, 30 radiation treatments and multiple surgeries. In response to his diagnosis, Balmes turned to physical fitness as a way to cope and strengthen his body. His dedication led him to complete 12 marathons, seven half Ironman races and two full Ironman triathlons, all while undergoing cancer treatment.
“Brian’s story is one of resilience and hope,” said Pat Daley, President of Mayer and a Senior Vice President of Rexel USA. “He is an asset to Mayer and his team, not only for his skill but the positive attitude he brings despite the adversity he has faced for so many years. His journey has inspired our team to support the groundbreaking work being done at Sylvester to help patients like him and many others.”
Balmes’ care is led by Dr. Gina D’Amato, M.D., a nationally recognized expert in sarcoma treatment. D’Amato first treated Balmes at Northside Hospital in Atlanta and now coordinates his care at Sylvester with a team of specialists.
“This donation is deeply personal,” Balmes said. “Dr. D’Amato and the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center have given me hope and world-class care. Supporting their research, especially the genetic database project, means we’re helping future patients get better answers and better outcomes. I’m grateful to Mayer for standing with me and with everyone fighting cancer.”
If you would like to donate to the Rexel Foundation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that will direct all contributions to Sylvester, please visit this GoFundMe page.
Mayer said the gala will become an annual event, rotating cities and charitable causes each year.
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