The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Raise 2022 Innovator of the Year [Video]

In the late 1940’s, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society made its debut as a fundraising and education organization. It was founded by Rudolph and Antoinette de Villiers following the passing of their son Robert “Robbie” Roesler de Villiers, who succumbed rapidly to leukemia in 1944. Robbie was 16 years young.

Originally known as the Robert Roesler de Villiers Foundation, the organization had humble beginnings with just a few volunteers, tiny budget, and small Wall Street office. Their mission seemed hopeless. Most leukemia patients died within 3 months of diagnosis even with the introduction of the first generation chemotherapy drugs appearing by the mid-1950’s. In its 1955 annual report the Foundation stated, ” As of this date, Leukemia is 100% fatal. This is almost a unique situation among the many diseases to which man is susceptible.”

It was a formidable and heart-wrenching start. But, Rudolph and Antoinette were trailblazers, strong-willed, passionate, and boundless in their belief that leukemia and other blood cancers were curable. Driven by a fierce purpose and passion, the Foundation grew little-by-little and eventually opened its first chapter in New York City.

Guided by the same principles of its Founders, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is unwavering in its dedication to curing leukemia, lymphoma, myeloma, and other blood cancers. LLS is the world’s largest voluntary (nonprofit) health organization dedicated to funding blood cancer research and providing education and patient services. Since inception,. LLS has invested $1.6 billion in groundbreaking research, pioneering many of today’s most innovative approaches. The team works tirelessly and through a collaborative model with other organizations, scientists, patients, and volunteers to find cures and ensure patients can access lifesaving treatments, just as Rudolph and Antoinette did over 70 years ago.

In this episode, Troy Dunmire, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer, and Coker Powell, Chief Development Officer, talk about leadership, dedication, and the LLS legacy.

Join Troy and Coker as they take listeners on a journey through recent change, innovation, achievement, and impact as they address:

• Unique characteristics that differentiate LLS in the nonprofit space.
• Fast Company’s Second Annual List of “Brands That Matter.”
• Successful campaign results in the face of change and global disruption.
• Key priorities for LLS moving into the next year facing an eminent leadership change.
• Raise 2022 Innovator of the Year.
• Dare to Dream Project.