DCC II
Total Funds Raised: $1,070,000
Number of Participants: 1,020
Survivor
A survivor & the DCC. A big deal.
John McGuire is a survivor that was diagnosed with prostate cancer more than a decade ago. From his time in treatment, to his time in remission, John has understood the complexities and challenges that cancer presents better than most.
“Cancer is not just a physical disease or problem, it has profound psychological impacts,” says John.
As a patient at Sylvester, he’s embraced a life of activity and exercise through Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center’s Cancer Support Services.
“These services help the patient deal with the day-to-day problem of having cancer.”
John McGuire came to participate in his first DCC, and took on the 5K. His participation in the one-day fundraising event reaffirmed his notion that the impact made during the event is a big deal.
“I feel like I’m doing something positive for myself and doing something positive for Sylvester,” says John.
Physician
A beam of light that loves what she does and does it with intention.
Sophia George, Ph.D., is a Gynecologic Oncology Researcher at the University of Miami’s Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Dr. George is proud to work at a cancer center that is at the forefront of providing the best care to those battling cancer in the community, including underserved demographics such as women in minority groups.
“The community is supportive of us doing this work with them,” says Dr. George. “You don’t find that everywhere.”
As a participant of the DCC, Dr. George values the opportunity to connect with her colleagues, community, family and friends for a common cause that impacts critical research funding.
“You are going to be amongst people who are fighting the same fight,” Dr. George says about the DCC.
The result of the DCC goes beyond the final dollar amount – allowing Sylvester to recruit top scientists, design clinical trials and be transformative.
“We see this work needs to be done, and we’re doing it with intention.”
Miami Dolphins Alumni
A Miami Dolphins Legend that continues to inspire off the field.
Nat Moore has a long history with the Miami Dolphins organization. From having his number immortalized above the Hard Rock Stadium stands, to now serving as the Senior VP of Special Projects, Alumni Relations & Advisor to CEO.
However, his friendship with the late Jim “Mad Dog” Mandich has propelled him to be a pillar for what the DCC represents and a champion for bringing positivity and awareness to cancer research in the community.
“[Mandich] wanted to see a first-rate, first-class cancer center here in South Florida.” Nat Moore says on Mandich’s mission. “He chose Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center… It was really the vision of one man.”
Today, after 13 years of riding at the DCC, Nat Moore is proud to be an advocate and a participant of the #1 team-based Fundraiser in the NFL.
Nat Moore acknowledges that in the first ever DCC, they were riding for those that were lost to the battle with cancer. “Now, we have survivors riding, and running, and walking and they’re a part of it, so it shows you that the mission is working.”
Board Chair, DCC
The embodiment of generosity and persistence.
Elizabeth Jenkins is the wife of the late Jason Jenkins, SVP of Communications & Community Relations at the Miami Dolphins. Having seen the DCC grow since its inception first-hand, Elizabeth took on a vital role to do more and honor the memory of Jason.
Approached by President of the Miami Dolphins, Tom Garfinkel, Elizabeth was hesitant to take on the responsibility until she found her answer while at church. “My pastor gave a very impassioned sermon that day about stepping into something that keeps coming as a gift to you,” Elizabeth said.
Fittingly, Mr. Garfinkel called her half-an-hour after leaving church, and Elizabeth accepted and vowed to lean in to become the Board Chair for the Dolphins Challenge Cancer.
Elizabeth is also a proud participant of the DCC, and is excited to play a role in making a positive impact for those battling cancer in our community and beyond.
“That will make me feel amazing at the end of the day. I did something special. I left my own mark. And that’s really what the next chapter is about,” says Elizabeth.
DCC Participant
A former Miami Dolphins Cheerleader and now Associate Director at Jackson Health System, Mari Campuzano, Ed.D., takes pride in honoring those that have fought against cancer. Mari’s grandfather passed because of cancer when she was a Dolphins Cheerleader, and she recognizes that his passing sparked her commitment to the DCC.
“Losing someone to a disease like cancer is numbing, and that is all the motivation one person would need to commit to a cause,” said Mari.
Mari sees the Dolphins Challenge Cancer as a celebration of all the year-round efforts to tackle cancer. As a nod to her DCC journey, Mari wears her own custom shirt for the day of the challenge, carrying the names of loved ones, friends, doctors, and others who motivate her.
“[They] deserved to be honored for their fight, for their commitment to overcoming this,” said Mari.
Mari sees the work of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center to be some of the most challenging and essential work in the world today. She sees the Miami Dolphins as trailblazers for what community-based action entails.
Mari Campuzano continues to take on the Dolphins Challenge Cancer and hopes to honor more people in her journey.
DCC Participant
Oscar Ortiz is the father of Sebastian Ortiz and the Founder of the Sebastian Strong Foundation. Oscar’s “why” for riding in the Dolphins Challenge Cancer comes from his son’s battle with Pediatric Cancer.
“A really special human being. He was the best of the Ortiz’s…he had everything,” said Oscar about his late son Sebastian.
Oscar promised his son that the Ortiz family would do their part to bring awareness and advancement into the world of Pediatric Cancer no matter the obstacles so that another family didn’t have to go through what they did.
They began their work with the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center and partnered with the DCC to tell the mission of the Sebastian Strong Foundation.
“In the last 40-45 years, there’s been six drugs developed for kids with cancer… there’s been hundreds for adults,’ spoke Oscar about the need for innovation in Pediatric Cancer.
Sebastian Strong has raised over $4.2 million in an effort to save children’s lives.
DCC Participant
The ultimate South Florida sports fan.
Lisa Siegel is a Miami Dolphins and Miami Hurricanes aficionado – growing up a die-hard fan through the decades. Her ties to the organizations run in her family, as her father began working at the U in 1966. Lisa followed in her dad’s footsteps and has worked for the University of Miami since 1989.
One day, as she walked across the medical campus, she saw that her beloved Miami Dolphins partnered with Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center to create the Dolphins Challenge Cancer.
“I knew, right then and there, that I would participate every single year,” said Lisa Siegel.
Lisa Siegel’s connection to the DCC deepened when things in her family took a turn for the worse. Her mom had been diagnosed with stage IV Ovarian Cancer. Lisa lost her mother just 17 days after she had been admitted to the hospital.
Lisa reflects on the hardships as an opportunity. “Without setbacks, there are no comebacks,” she said.
It has been Lisa’s mission to carry her mother’s legacy at every Dolphins Challenge Cancer, and it’s a promise that she will never break.
DCC Participant
Vaughn Edelson, a Senior Project Manager at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, began her Dolphins Challenge Cancer journey a decade ago after her father was diagnosed with cancer. Vaughn’s father, a passionate photographer, urged her to partake in her first DCC when he learned about the event over the radio.
“This [DCC] was a small way that I could contribute to what he was going through,” said Vaughn regarding that first ride.
Vaughn’s father was in remission at the time of her first cycling challenge, but a short year later, he found that his cancer had returned. As a true reflection of his passion, he continued photographing his battle throughout – just as he had captured all the moments before.
Vaughn’s commitment to the DCC stems from the resilience of her dad. She’s dedicated her time, energy, and life to supporting life-saving research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
After meeting Dr. Stephen Nimer, Director of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, through the DCC, Vaughn was invited to participate in a patient & family advisory council. To this day, Vaughn helps the council foster an environment where the family and patient voices are heard for decision-making at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Cancer Survivor
Janine Stanwood was at her job as a WPLG/Channel 10 news reporter when she got the call that she had a large early-stage breast tumor that required surgical removal. “As a woman, your breasts don’t define you, but whenever you’re told a part of your body has to be removed, it’s shocking.”
She went to her initial visit with surgeon Dr. Susan Kesmodel at Sylvester, and Janine and her husband were heartened by the doctor’s focus and care—even though it was the last appointment of the day.
“She made me feel relieved that I had science on my side,” Janine said. “She drew pictures of what cancer cells look like inside my breast and explained new surgical techniques. I loved how determined she was to get me the best care, and it provided a great sense of relief to me and my husband.”
After her breast cancer surgery, Janine decided to share her experience with her TV audience. During a broadcast, two viewers noticed a lump in her throat from a tumor of the thyroid gland. Janine turned to Dr. David Arnold, a Sylvester head and neck cancer specialist, who treated her thyroid cancer with surgery and radioactive iodine in 2020.
As she was recovering, Janine went to the DCC as an observer and was inspired by the event. She did her first 5K run in 2021 with her husband, reflecting on the support system that had gotten her through two bouts with cancer.
“I thought about my dad, who died from a rare form of blood cancer. I thought of my mom, who beat breast cancer twice. I thought about my husband, my friends, how good I felt and how I’m doing, and how grateful I was for that,” Janine said. “All of those emotions rushed over me at that finish line. Being a part of something bigger than me is something I’ll never forget, and I don’t want that feeling to go away.”
Cancer Survivor
Raquel Kaufler knows endurance. She often rose before dawn, training for marathons with friends. When her mother was diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, Raquel was at her side until her mother died in 2010. But when Raquel was diagnosed with stage 4 clear cell renal cell carcinoma in 2012, she realized she was in the race of her life.
“I said to myself, ‘I’m going to beat this,’” Raquel said. “I need to do everything I can.”
Surgeons removed her cancerous right kidney, but follow-up scans showed the disease had spread to both lungs. While Raquel’s first oral treatments did not go well, her Sylvester oncologist Dr. Jaime Merchan was able to offer her a state-of-the-art targeted immunotherapy with few side effects through a clinical trial at Sylvester.
The treatment worked wonders and Dr. Merchan offered something else to Raquel: a chance to run again. Knowing that she was an avid athlete, he invited her to participate the DCC 5K with him in April 2021. The two started the race together and Dr. Merchan met her at the finish line, where he cheered when she rang the bell.
“It’s amazing how far we’ve advanced in medicine. When they first spotted the tumors in my lungs, my choices so slim. Now, we have targeted therapies and immunotherapy with very little side effects,” Raquel said. “That’s why the DCC is so important to me. Every dollar goes toward science and research to find a cure for cancer.
“It’s like running a marathon,” she continued. “It’s going to hurt, but every step you take brings you closer to the finish. With hope, we can beat cancer together.”
North Collier Fire Rescue firefighter David Perez had always taken pride in his health. When his father died of a heart attack, David changed his diet and kept up his exercise regimen—he wanted a long, full life with his wife and two children. So, when his bloodwork from a routine fire department physical came back irregular, cancer wasn’t even on his radar.
David felt confused and afraid when he learned he had multiple myeloma, a deadly blood cancer. “It was fear of the unknown,” he said. “How long did I have? How long was I going to be there for my kids?” Fortunately, Dr. James E. Hoffman, assistant professor of clinical medicine, was able draw on Sylvester’s unique resources to treat David with a combination of medications. That treatment produced excellent results.
“At my first appointment with Dr. Hoffman, he told me that I was in good hands,” David said. “Sylvester had the best people on their team and access to state-of-the-art medications and treatment, and I had youth and health on my side.”
David had often heard that firefighters were more at risk for various cancers, but he hadn’t experienced it firsthand until his diagnosis. When he learned of Sylvester’s nationwide Firefighter Cancer Initiative at the 2021 DCC, he dedicated himself to raising awareness about the high rates of cancer among his colleagues.
“When I showed up at Hard Rock Stadium that morning and saw so many firefighters in their gear, I started crying. I realized I wasn’t alone in my fight against cancer,” he said. “There’s something in firefighters’ DNA that we just have a duty to act. This is my new duty to act: to help other firefighters and anybody with cancer in any way I can.”
Cancer Survivor
Shortly after her diagnosis of chondrosarcoma of the pelvis, a rare form of cancer, Marina Makhnach was told by several physicians that she would need an amputation of her leg, from the hip down, to survive.
Facing death or the loss of her ability to walk, the future seemed bleak for the former athlete. But when Marina met sarcoma oncologist Jonathan Trent, M.D., Ph.D., she found hope at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. Under his care, she became the first person treated with a new drug to target cancer-causing mutated IDH genes in chondrosarcoma patients.
Four years later, without chemotherapy or surgery, Marina is virtually pain-free, her tumor has shrunk, and she is ecstatic to be back to an active lifestyle. Marina’s confidence in Dr. Trent has paved the way for a better outcome and quality of life for countless patients with aggressive sarcomas. As she completed her first mile at DCC 10, she felt like a walking miracle.
In Memoriam – June 10, 1954 – March 15, 2021
When Eileen Youtie was diagnosed with breast cancer in December 2013, she accepted not only the challenge to fight for herself, but the opportunity to help others by raising awareness about hereditary cancers.
Eileen was a dedicated member of the board of directors of Yodeah (“to know” in Hebrew), an outreach organization dedicated to educating people about the BRCA gene and facilitating cost-effective testing to save lives through prevention and early detection. Yodeah has since joined forces with Sophia George, Ph.D., at Sylvester, whose research studies the BRCA mutations that are prevalent among Caribbean women. Together, Yodeah and Dr. George are working to spread awareness of preventive strategies for reducing breast and ovarian cancers in the community at large.
“Eileen, our beloved wife and mother, was a superhero in all aspects of her life and a trailblazer in raising awareness for BRCA gene mutations in the Ashkenazi Jewish community. She wholeheartedly believed that she was diagnosed with cancer, persevered through eight years of agonizing chemotherapy and other treatments, and was ultimately put on this Earth to help others by telling her story and encouraging people to get tested for BRCA. This led her to saving hundreds of lives and we plan to honor her legacy by living every day to its fullest, continuing her work with Yodeah, and raising awareness for hereditary cancers. We love her and miss her every day and although she is no longer physically here with us, her unparalleled love and strength persevere.”
With eternal love, Phil, Haleigh and Max Youtie
Cancer Survivor
Twelve years ago, Josh Young’s life changed forever when he heard the devastating words, “You have tongue cancer.” It was a difficult diagnosis to process, considering Josh’s perfect health and the fact that his work often requires him to speak in public.
Since then, despite several treatment modalities, the cancer has returned every few years. In 2017, during the fourth recurrence, it spread aggressively into Josh’s gums and mouth. Without treatment, his doctor predicted he had six months to live. Facing the prospect of never being able to speak again, Josh underwent a complex microvascular surgery performed by Sylvester surgeons David J. Arnold, M.D., and Donald T. Weed, M.D., that took 13 hours to complete.
Josh’s recovery was grueling, but his strength and will to survive are inspirational. It has taken him three years to fully recover, rebuild, and rehabilitate, but it has not slowed him down. With a spirit of service and gratitude, Josh rides in the DCC every year to give back to the physicians and the institution that saved his life.
Cancer Survivor
Sonia Rodriguez was a typical 15-year-old, until the day she woke up with a lump in her throat. At first she chalked it up to a pulled muscle, but eventually she was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma, the disease that had taken her grandmother’s life just a few years earlier.
As her normal life came to a halt, Sonia found comfort and strength in the large circle of family and friends who accompanied her to every appointment. Under the care of pediatric oncologist Julio C. Barredo, M.D., and the physicians and nurses at alex’s place at Sylvester, Sonia underwent surgery and chemotherapy.
Two years later, she is cancer-free, studying to be a veterinarian, and committed to raising awareness about cancer research. At DCC XI, she bravely shared her story, bringing hope and comfort to young adults and adolescents facing the same challenges.
Cancer Survivor
Dr. Erin Kobetz is well-versed in the important role that cancer research plays in saving lives. As the vice provost of research at the University of Miami, she is responsible for overseeing research across the University, and plays a major role in communicating with both federal and private sectors. But what makes her most effective at her job is her uncanny ability to thread science through emotional human narratives.
Dr. Kobetz largely credits her personal experience for her professional success. As a cancer survivor, and director of Sylvester’s Firefighter Cancer Initiative, she is a powerful advocate for Florida’s courageous first responders. Through her team’s work, they have translated Sylvester’s scientific research into practical solutions to reduce firefighters’ exposure to dangerous carcinogens in the field.
Dr. Kobetz is also an ardent participant in the DCC, whose support has helped her pursue lifesaving engagement, education, and public health research with the state’s firefighters. At every event, she can be found running alongside the troops of firefighters who have become her extended family.
Cancer Survivor
For David Deugenio, the DCC was a turning point in his personal battle against cancer. When he was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, David thought the end was near, as he had already lost his parents, two siblings, and several other loved ones to cancer.
Fortunately, David turned to Joseph Rosenblatt, M.D., a Sylvester specialist in blood cancers who understands the importance of a positive mindset. Dr. Rosenblatt convinced David to ride in the DCC. At first, David couldn’t ride three miles without feeling exhausted, but he persevered with support from “Dr. Joe.”
At DCC IX, David was able to complete the 25-mile ride to the cheers of his family and friends, and he’s never looked back. David makes it a point to train year-round, wearing his fundraising sign on his back for all to see. People often stop him on his rides to ask about his mission and how they can support his fundraising efforts. He credits the DCC with bringing new meaning to his life, allowing him to contribute to and engage with his community in a powerful way.
Cancer Survivor
Giving back to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center is part of Elysa Merlin’s family legacy. Her maternal grandfather, Stuart S. Danoff, was a member of Sylvester’s Board of Overseers. Her father, Bob Merlin, has been a DCC heavy hitter on Team Mack Cycle since 2011.
But giving back took on double meaning in 2018 when Elysa, a vibrant 32-year-old attorney, was diagnosed with a primary brain tumor, five months after becoming a mother. Although her tumor was discovered at a different hospital, the family had no doubt that when it came to cancer treatment, Sylvester was the only way to go. Just days later, Elysa underwent brain surgery, putting her career on hold and juggling new motherhood throughout her cancer treatment under the expert care of Sylvester’s internationally recognized neurological cancer team.
As supporters of Sylvester for more than 30 years, Bob and Michelle Merlin continue to ride with a deep sense of gratitude that their philanthropy ended up saving their daughter’s life. With a new lease on life, Elysa continues to cheer them on from the finish line.
Cancer Survivor
When Andrew Davis transferred to Miami to accept the position as chief human resources and inclusion officer at Lennar, he knew that he would be joining a team that builds communities for home buyers. He never imagined that this team would also build him up for one of the greatest physical challenges of his life.
An original corporate sponsor of the DCC, Lennar’s participation is ingrained in the company culture. As a cancer survivor himself, who is passionate about educating the African American community about the importance of early detection for prostate cancer, Andrew knew right away that he would participate in the annual event.
During a kickoff luncheon, when Andrew shared his cancer survivorship story and intention to sign up for a 35-mile ride, Lennar’s Executive Chairman Stuart Miller cleverly intervened to push him further. In front of the entire company, Andrew committed to a grueling 100-mile ride, and set off on a journey that would teach him the true meaning of hope and community.
Cancer Survivor
When Gisenia Reyes was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukemia (AML), the most lethal type of blood cancer, the outlook was not encouraging. Having lost their mother to cancer years before, Gisenia and her identical twin sister, Lucy, knew that the road ahead would not be easy.
Gisenia immediately underwent chemotherapy at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, and the treatment sent her cancer into remission. But her doctors discovered that Gisenia had a mutation in her blood that could cause her to relapse, and they decided that she needed a stem cell transplant. Working against time, Sylvester’s nationally recognized stem cell transplant team determined that her twin sister, Lucy, was a perfect match. This year, Gisenia celebrated four years cancer-free.
Today, Gisenia and Lucy have turned their life-altering experience into service, giving back to the community through their non-profit organization, We Care Cancer Kits. As Gisenia roams the halls of Sylvester to deliver kits to patients currently undergoing chemotherapy treatment, she radiates an infectious spirit of hope and joy.
Cancer Survivor
In July 2017, Eddie Nurquez was diagnosed with mantle cell lymphoma, a rare and incurable cancer. Conventional treatment offered little promise for Eddie, whose lymphoma was already at an advanced stage. Fortunately, he learned about the DCC-funded research of Sylvester oncologist, Izidore Lossos, M.D., and was able to participate in a groundbreaking clinical trial.
With his wife, Jessica, by his side during the aggressive, inpatient treatment, Eddie was in remission by just the second of four cycles of therapy. When Eddie’s friend Mike Essington, a DCC heavy hitter, found out that his friend was in the battle of his life, he dedicated his DCC VIII ride in his honor.
Things came full circle when the Nurquez family realized that the money raised by Mike and his wife, Dee Dee, helped to fund the research that saved Eddie’s life.
Hosting more than 5,600 participants, DCC XIII resulted in another record-breaking event that proved, once again, we can challenge cancer. Including in-person and virtual participation, this year’s event achieved a historic milestone – being the first DCC to raise funds in excess of $10 million for cancer research.
Hosting more than 4,800 participants, DCC XII covered more miles and raised more funds than any other Dolphins Challenge Cancer event since the annual fundraiser began. The record-setting year included in-person and virtual options and saw our community’s efforts push the fundraising total for the event’s history to $53.9 million.
While COVID-19 affected many aspects of our day-to-day lives, our collaborative battle against cancer continued in full force. DCC XI was the first Dolphins Challenge Cancer event to offer virtual and in-person options, gaining the loyal support of over 3,390 participants, resulting in record-breaking figures, and bringing the event’s eleven-year total to more than $45.5M.
A decade of DCC ends in spectacular fashion, with the largest number of participants and the highest amount ever raised in DCC history. With a ten-year total of $39.2 million raised for life-saving cancer research at Sylvester, the DCC has become an unwavering beacon of hope in the South Florida community.
Firefighters from all over the country show up in bunker gear to participate in honor of lost brothers and sisters, highlighting the important work being done by Sylvester’s Firefighter Cancer Initiative. At the end of the 5K, Sam Eaton, the battalion chief from Palm Beach Fire Rescue, presents a special fire ax to program director, Erin Kobetz, Ph.D., M.P.H., and other team members, honoring the impact that their breakthrough research has had upon the department.
In a powerful testament to the resiliency and vitality of cancer survivors, more than 250 survivors show up, more than any previous year in DCC history. The Survivor Program, presented every year by the Harcourt M. and Virginia W. Sylvester Foundation, continues to share the stories of the thriving survivors on the front lines who galvanize efforts at the DCC.
The DCC hits the record-breaking, six-million-dollar fundraising mark. Accompanying events, such as the second annual DCC Celebrity Golf Tournament at the Turnberry Isle Country Club in Aventura, sell out.
The DCC debuts as a one-day event of friendship, sportsmanship, and celebration. After the race, participants and guests attend a concert presented by Pepsi at the AutoNation finish line, featuring artists Sheryl Crow and Melissa Etheridge.
For the first time, the Dolphins Cycling Challenge expands beyond cycling with its inaugural 5K run/walk and moves its date to after the Super Bowl. Dolphins president, Tom Garfinkel, announces the new name of the DCC, Dolphins Cancer Challenge, as well as the addition of other events throughout the year leading up to the big day.
Thousands continue to gather throughout the tri-county area to ride in honor of lost loved ones, and celebrate the brave patients and survivors. “It is remarkable to see what the DCC, and its riders, have accomplished in such a short period of time,” Dolphins owner, Stephen Ross, says. “I’m proud and honored to be a part of this new South Florida tradition.”
Team Sylvester welcomes Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., riding his first DCC as the newly appointed director of Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. The commitment to the Dolphins Cycling Challenge is solidified, as participants and funds raised double with each year.
The 2011 DCC ceremonial jersey is unveiled in honor of Mandich, who lost his battle with cancer earlier in the year. More than 40 cyclists and cancer patients take part in a ceremonial lap around the perimeter of Sun Life Stadium as a touching tribute. Mandich’s memory will come to leave an indelible mark through the millions raised by the DCC for life-saving cancer research at Sylvester.
The Miami Dolphins Foundation, in partnership with Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, launched its signature initiative, Dolphins Cycling Challenge (DCC), in honor of Dolphins great, Jim “Mad Dog” Mandich, who was being treated at Sylvester for bile duct cancer. With his spirit and determination leading the way, Mandich battles his way through the inaugural event.
Like any great team, Sylvester's numbers tell our story. Our statistics show the journey of how a cancer center, and its community, worked collectively to achieve the most prestigious title—National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designation—in pursuit of a cure. None of it would have been possible without the DCC, as 100% of participant-raised funds goes directly toward life-saving cancer research at Sylvester.
The bold discoveries at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center that are funded by the Dolphins Cancer Challenge are changing the future of cancer treatment and care for generations to come. Thanks to the overwhelming support of the DCC, Sylvester has established groundbreaking programs with impact in cancer epigenetics, tumor biology, and cancer control. Now more than ever, we are committed to advancing cancer care through breakthrough science, leading-edge technology, and personalized patient care.
The experts who are leading innovative research and delivering excellent care are among the most dedicated, compassionate members of our community. Many participate in the DCC every year in solidarity with patients, friends, and colleagues. Together, we are striding and riding toward a future that is cancer-free.
In our renewed mission to challenge cancer year-round, funding from the DCC will be allocated to support Sylvester’s more than 310 active clinical trials; survivorship programs; seed money to accelerate cutting-edge research; and innovative cancer treatments such as immunotherapy.
Please click on the button below for a full list of physicians, scientists and research areas that have received funding from the DCC throughout the years.
Research Funding List
Taghrid Asfar, M.D.
Professor of Epidemiology
Research Assistant
Department of Public Health Sciences
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Research Interest
Dr. Asfar is a nationally-recognized tobacco control expert, whose current research focus lies in disseminating knowledge about the harmful effects of waterpipe smoking, specifically towards youth. She has worked closely with the UM occupational research group to examine tobacco health and tobacco-associated disease topics among US workers, ranging from initiation in youth to use and health consequences in older workers.
Nagi G. Ayad, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Neurosurgery
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Ayad's laboratory is focused on identifying therapeutic combinations for brain cancers. He uses big data resources to identify targets in glioblastoma and medulloblastoma. He also works closely with neurosurgeons and neuro-oncologists to identify clinically relevant compounds for treating brain tumors.
Julio C. Barredo, M.D.
Professor of Pediatrics, Medicine, and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Toppel Family Endowed Chair in Pediatric Hematology-Oncology
Director, Children's Cancer Programs at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Barredo's laboratory focuses on tumor metabolism and exploiting the metabolic vulnerabilities of acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) lymphoblasts for therapeutic gain in children, adolescents and young adults with relapsed and refractory incidences of this disease, as well as other acute leukemias.
Barbara Bedogni, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Dermatology
Phillip Frost Department of Dermatology and Cutaneous Surgery
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Bedogni studies mechanisms involved in the development and metastatic dissemination of melanoma. Specific goals include to understand the signaling pathways that allow melanoma growth, survival and propagation; to determine how these pathways modulate the tumor microenvironment with a focus on immune responses; and to develop novel therapies to treat a broad range of melanomas independently of their oncogenic drivers (e.g. both BRAF mutated and wild type tumors).
Marzenna Blonska, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Division of Hematology
Department of Medicine
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Blonska’s research on oncogenic signaling pathways in B-Cell lymphomas is identifying mechanisms that lead to the spread of cancer cells and resistance to current therapy, improving the therapeutic intervention in patients suffering from metastatic disease.
Karoline Briegel, Ph.D.
Professor of Surgery, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Associate, Breast Cancer Research
Division of Surgical Oncology, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Research Interest
Dr. Briegel’s research focus is on WNT signaling and developmental transcription factors that control breast stem cell self-renewal/maintenance and cell lineage specification. Deregulation of these factors is increasingly thought to drive the formation of treatment-resistant cancer stem cells, breast cancer heterogeneity, and metastatic tumor progression. Her long-term goal is to develop cancer stem cell-targeted interventions to prevent and reduce the mortality from metastatic breast cancer.
Luisa Cimmino, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
St. Baldrick’s Foundation Scholar
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Cimmino’s current research interests are to understand how environmental factors, such as micronutrients, influence the activity of epigenetic regulators to drive hematopoietic stem cell development, differentiation, and transformation.
Macarena de la Fuente, M.D.
Chief, Neuro-oncology Division
Assistant Professor, Neurology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. de la Fuente’s research focuses on the development of clinical trials for primary brain tumors, particularly, low-grade glioma and glioblastoma. She is currently leading collaborative, multicenter, national and international trials for primary brain tumors. In addition to the development of clinical trials, her research interest focuses on IDH-mutant glioma, specifically investigating radiographic biomarkers for these tumors.
Gilberto de Lima Lopes Junior, M.D., M.B.A., FAMS
Associate Professor of Clinical Medicine
Medical Director for International Programs
Associate Director for Global Oncology
Co-Leader, Lung Cancer Site Disease Group
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. de Lima Lopes’ research focuses on developing new drugs to treat cancer, and designing and leading cutting-edge clinical trials. He has helped bring some novel cancer therapies into the clinic. He also leads the area known as Global Oncology, in which he performs health economics and outcomes research, policy studies and more that aim to improve cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment around the world.
Shanta Dhar, Ph.D.
Associate Professor of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Assistant Director for Technology and Innovation
NanoTherapeutics Research Laboratory
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Dhar’s research interests lie at the interface of chemistry and biology with particular emphasis on nanocarrier mediated intracellular delivery of payloads for potential applications in various diseases. Their research is directed to develop organelle targeted nanoparticles and to study nanoparticle assisted targeted delivery for possible applications in cancer, cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases.
Nesrin Dogan, Ph.D.
Professor
Vice Chair and Chief of Medical Physics Division
Department of Radiation Oncology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Dogan’s research interest lies in studying Image Guided Adaptive Radiation Therapy, a process of adapting the treatment to the anatomical changes of the patient’s tumor, with the purpose of providing personalized cancer care to improve treatment quality and patient outcomes.
Wael El-Rifai, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor and Associate Vice Chair of Surgery
Associate Director for Program Development
Leader of Tumor Biology Program
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. El-Rifai's laboratory provides unique training experiences in diverse areas of cancer research that include molecular mechanisms of tumorigenesis, drug resistance, and targeted therapy. His research utilizes functional and translational oncogenomic approaches in upper gastrointestinal carcinomas.
Maria E. Figueroa, M.D.
Associate Professor
Department of Human Genetics
Co-Leader, Cancer Epigenetics Research Program
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
The Figueroa Lab is focused on an exciting area of research called epigenetics. Epigenetics refers to chemical modifications that regulate (switch on and off) gene activity. Dr. Figueroa is studying how the epigenetic changes that occur as people age may contribute to acute myeloid leukemia (AML) and other blood cancers. Advancing age is the most important risk factor for cancer overall, according to the National Cancer Institute. Dr. Figueroa’s cutting-edge work offers new clues toward understanding the factors associated with cellular aging and cancer risk.
Sophia George, Ph.D.
Research Associate Professor, Obstetrics, Gynecology & Reproductive Science
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. George's precision prevention research examines the incidence and prevalence of hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome in women from the Caribbean.
Erin Kobetz, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Vice Provost for Research & Scholarship
Professor, Medicine and Public Health Sciences
Associate Director, Population Sciences and Cancer Disparity
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
The Firefighter Cancer Initiative (FCI) was launched in 2015 through a state of Florida appropriation. The primary goals of FCI are to better document and understand the excess burden of cancer among Florida firefighters, and identify novel, evidence-based methods for reducing risk.
Krishna Komanduri, M.D.
Kalish Family Chair in Stem Cell Transplantation
Professor of Medicine, Microbiology & Immunology
Chief, Division of Transplantation & Cellular Therapy
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
The Komanduri laboratory focuses on developing new ways to deliver transplants to patients without complications by studying how to optimize mismatched transplants. Dr. Komanduri also specializes in the development of immunotherapy trials at Sylvester for cellular therapy, including CAR T-Cell therapy. Another current research focus includes the study of how infection impacts immunocompromised patients, and how the immune system, in both healthy patients and transplanted patients, controls viruses.
Stephen Lee, Ph.D.
Professor of Biochemistry
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Lee’s research focus lies in understanding the mechanisms involved in cancer cell adaptation to the hypoxic tumor microenvironment, more precisely on long non-coding RNA and the hypoxic protein synthesis pathway that both lay dormant in normal cells but are reactivated during early cancer cell adaptation to hypoxia.
Izidore Lossos, M.D.
Professor of Medicine
Director, Lymphoma Program
Head, Hematological Malignancies Site Disease Group
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Lossos' laboratory is investigating pathogenesis of different subtypes of non-Hodgkin’s lymphomas as well as novel therapeutic approaches.
Jose Lutzky, M.D., FACP
Director, Cutaneous Oncology
Leader, Melanoma Site Disease Group
Medical Director, Clinical Trials Coordination Unit
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Research Interest
Dr. Lutzky’s research specialty lies in creating and leading groundbreaking clinical trials to discover new treatments in skin cancers. Florida has the second highest incidence of melanoma in the country. Dr. Lutzky has a strong focus in this area, with an emphasis on immunotherapy.
Jaime Merchan, M.D., MMSc
Associate Professor of Medicine
Director, Phase I Clinical Trials Program
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Merchan’s research interest is in the development of novel strategies to overcome resistance to antiangiogenic agents, using syngeneic and xenograft cancer models of renal cell, breast and colon cancer.
Nipun B. Merchant, M.D.
Vice Chair of Surgical Oncology Services
Chief, Division of Surgical Oncology
Chief Surgical Officer and Associate Director of Translational Research
Executive Director of Perioperative Services
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Research Interest
Dr. Merchant investigates how alterations in RAS and STAT3 signaling pathways affect the tumor stroma and immune microenvironment in pancreatic cancer. Dr. Merchant's lab studies how cross-talk between these pathways in the tumor and stroma affect epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, changes in the tumor microenvironment and alterations in immune response to identify more effective treatments and achieve better outcomes in pancreatic cancer.
Ivaylo Mihaylov, Ph.D., DABR
Associate Professor
Department of Radiation Oncology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Mihaylov’s research focuses on developing novel approaches for radiation therapy, including inverse treatment in radiotherapy and the design and planning of highly precise optimization programs to better target tumors in various cancer treatments with less toxicity.
Lluis Morey, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor
Department of Human Genetics
Cancer Epigenetics Research Program
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Morey’s research aims to understand how epigenetic mechanisms regulate cancer initiation and progression. His primary goal is to identify new potential therapeutic targets for head and neck carcinomas and breast cancer.
Allan Pollack, M.D., Ph.D.
Chair and Professor, Radiation Oncology, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Interim Deputy Director, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
Service Chief, Radiation Oncology, University of Miami Hospitals and Clinics
Service Chief, Radiation Oncology, Jackson Memorial Hospital
Research Interest
Dr. Pollack's research interests have centered on the management of prostate cancer with radiotherapy, the role and length of androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), radiation dose escalation, and radiation fractionation.
Priyamvada Rai, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Director, Medical School Summer Undergraduate Research Fellowship Program
Department of Radiation Oncology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Rai's research program focuses on development of molecular strategies to activate tumor suppressor pathways in cancer cells through modulation of cellular redox status and DNA repair mechanisms.
David J. Robbins, Ph.D.
Professor of Surgical Oncology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Division of Surgical Oncology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Robbins’ research focuses on elucidating the roles that vital proteins, such as Sonic hedgehog (Shh), and embryonic transcription factors, such as Wnt developmental signaling pathways, play in cancer. He has significant findings in medulloblastoma, colorectal cancer, and lung cancer, and has contributed to the identification of drugs for better treatment.
Joseph D. Rosenblatt, M.D.
Chief, Hematology Division
Professor of Medicine, Microbiology & Immunology
William J. Harrington Chair in Hematology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
The Rosenblatt Lab focuses on identifying new therapeutic agents called antibody fusion proteins that inhibit the ability of tumors to grow and cancers to metastasize. The antibody fusion proteins currently being formed in Dr. Rosenblatt’s lab has the potential to stop the progression of many different types of cancers. Dr. Rosenblatt also studies the role of B regulatory cells in anti-tumor immunity.
Michael A. Samuels, M.D., FACR
Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology
Director of Head and Neck Radiation Oncology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Samuel’s research interest lies in studying the use of DNA-protein kinase inhibitors with radiation therapy and immunotherapy in the treatment of advanced head and neck squamous cell carcinomas. He also has a combined clinical study/laboratory research team to study HPV-associated throat cancers, a very common throat cancer diagnosis.
Jonathan H. Schatz, M.D.
Associate Professor
Division of Hematology
Department of Medicine
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Schatz's lab is interested in understanding mechanisms of resistance to therapy in cancer, with a particular focus on the non-Hodgkin lymphomas.
Ramin Shiekhattar, Ph.D.
Professor, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Professor, Dr. John T. Macdonald Foundation Department of Human Genetics
Chief of Division of Cancer Genomics and Epigenetics
Director of the Cancer Epigenetics Research Program
Academic Director of the Oncogenomic Core Facility
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Research in the Shiekhattar Lab is centered on identifying mechanisms and factors involved in enhancer function and enhancer deregulation in pancreatic cancer and melanoma using novel tools and methods toward enhancer therapy in cancer. Dr. Shiekhattar is a leader in the epigenetics and RNA biology fields, and has a vast understanding of gene expression regulation and signaling pathways, and how they are manipulated in cancer through his research.
Jonathan C. Trent, M.D., Ph.D.
Professor of Medicine
Associate Director, Clinical Research
Director, Sarcoma Program
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Trent's interests are in the clinical and translational research of sarcomas, direct care of sarcoma patients, and education about sarcoma and patient-oriented research. As Associate Director for Clinical Research, his goal is to develop clinical trials that provide molecular testing of a patient’s tumor and molecularly targeted therapy for cancer patients in South Florida.
Ramiro E. Verdun, Ph.D.
Associate Professor
Division of Hematology
Department of Medicine
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Verdun's lab concentrates on the understanding of the mechanisms used by human cells to maintain genome stability. His team studies telomeres, the natural ends of our chromosomes, and antibody class switch recombination as model systems to understand how the different DNA repair mechanisms maintain genome stability.
Justin M. Watts, M.D.
Assistant Professor of Medicine
Division of Hematology, Department of Medicine
Pap Corps Endowed Professorship in Leukemia
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Watts’ research focuses on generating new therapeutic options for patients with acute myeloid leukemia and myelodysplastic syndrome. He does this through translational research with laboratory investigators and by designing and conducting early phase clinical trials of novel agents and precision medicine approaches, and by analyzing patient’s cells in the lab to understand the mechanisms of action.
Scott Welford, Ph.D.
Associate Professor, Department of Radiation Oncology
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Welford's laboratory investigates mechanisms of radiation responses in cancer cells, the effect of hypoxia on cancer metabolism and signaling, and space radiobiology as it impacts radiation induced carcinogenesis. Dr. Welford's lab is interested in brain and renal cancer models, taking advantage of similarities in their poor responses to therapy and hypoxic phenotypes.
Alexander Zaika, Ph.D.
Professor of Surgery
Professor of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
Department of Surgery
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center
University of Miami Miller School of Medicine
Research Interest
Dr. Zaika's group is interested in understanding gastric and esophageal tumorigenesis. They study how pathological factors such as inflammatory diseases and infections promote tumor development and progression. Based on the findings, they develop and test novel cancer chemo preventive agents.
Community partners push the Dolphins Cancer Challenge to new heights each year. Our champions create invaluable impact by integrating the DCC mission at multiple levels throughout their organizations. From holding board positions to striving for 100 percent employee commitment to rallying behind coworkers going through cancer, they exemplify the type of dedication and teamwork that transforms our community.
Jose "Pepe" Dans joined the Dolphins Cancer Challenge (DCC) after experiencing cancer's devastating impact on his family. "No one is exempt from cancer," said Dans, founder and president of WOW MTKG, a marketing agency in Coral Gables.
Read Story
Marc Cannon is the driving force for Team AutoNation's powerful commitment to the Dolphins Cancer Challenge. "Our philanthropic efforts are dedicated to raising money to fight cancer," said Cannon, who is Executive Vice President and Chief Customer Experience Officer of the Fort Lauderdale-based Fortune 500 company.
Read Story
Jennifer Stearns Buttrick was diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer in 2006, just two days after giving birth to her third child. After exploring her options, the Miami attorney turned to Sylvester for leading-edge treatment.
Read Story
As chairman and founder of Moss Construction, whose portfolio includes a number of University of Miami projects, Moss feels a deep sense of connection to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Read StoryEvery year, Bob Moss looks forward to riding in the DCC. “I’ve done the 14-mile ride for the past three years, and it’s always a tremendous experience,” said Bob. “There’s a great sense of camaraderie in sharing the sweat of the ride.”
As chairman and founder of Moss Construction, whose portfolio includes a number of University of Miami projects, Bob feels a deep sense of connection to Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.
“Both the Miami Dolphins and Sylvester are outstanding organizations that are going the extra mile to accelerate the research and development of cancer treatments,” Bob said. “The DCC brings them together, raising funds that help Sylvester keep advancing its vital research programs.”
Bob is proud of how the Moss Construction team, as well as its business partners and subcontractors, support the DCC. “Our organization is deeply committed to this cause,” he said. “We always have a large turnout of participants, including family members who take part in the ride, run and walk, or cheer everyone who crosses the finish line. We all know how important Sylvester is for our community.”
Bob is also the presenting sponsor of the annual DCC Celebrity Golf Tournament, with 100 percent of those proceeds also going to Sylvester’s programs. “I have been fortunate to play with Dan Marino the past two years, and everyone enjoys participating with the Dolphins and other celebrities,” he said.
Like most of us, Bob knows many people whose lives have been touched by cancer. “I have several close friends who are currently battling this disease,” he said. “As a community, we all must rise to this challenge and do as much as we can to accelerate the research that leads to better treatments for all cancer patients.”
Marc Cannon is the driving force for Team AutoNation’s powerful commitment to the DCC. “Our philanthropic efforts are dedicated to raising money to fight cancer,” said Marc, who is executive vice president and chief customer experience officer of the Fort Lauderdale-based Fortune 500 company. “When our team takes part in the DCC, we bring the spirit of fun and excitement to this important cause.”
AutoNation is one of the original DCC partners, and the organization’s support for Sylvester has steadily increased through the years. “Everyone in our company participates in some way, from the long bike rides to the 5K run/walk to raising funds from family members and friends,” Marc said. “This year’s DCC was especially meaningful for me because I was able to greet everyone coming in after earning their medals.”
Like AutoNation’s other DCC participants, Marc has made a personal commitment to the fight against cancer. “I know many people whose lives have been affected by cancer,” he said. “There is so much pain and suffering, as well as the loss of life. We have to work together to find a solution. I am so glad Team AutoNation has been able to do so much to make a difference.”
Through the years, AutoNation has raised more than $25 million for Sylvester and other cancer-fighting programs across the country, in keeping with its “DRV PNK” mission to raise funds for breast cancer research.
Reflecting on the importance of the DCC, Marc said, “I have listened to Sylvester’s researchers talk about their work, and it brings me a sense of hope. They are world-class scientists who are making tremendous accomplishments right here in South Florida. I am confident the funds raised through the DCC will help save the lives of people we know.”
Jennifer Stearns Buttrick was diagnosed with advanced kidney cancer in 2006, just two days after giving birth to her third child. After exploring her options, the Miami attorney turned to Sylvester for leading-edge treatment. “One of the Sylvester doctors had developed a new laparoscopic procedure for renal cell carcinomas,” Jennifer said. “He removed the tumor before the cancer could spread. Fourteen years later, I am still cancer-free – living proof of the expertise and compassion of Sylvester’s physicians.”
Jennifer has been an energetic supporter of the DCC right from the start. “When the Dolphins announced their partnership to launch the DCC, I was there as a patient advocate,” she said. “Having the Dolphins brand behind Sylvester provides enormous momentum for fundraising, while creating an exciting and engaging event for our community.” In addition, she has twice chaired Sylvester’s annual gala and serves on the Board of Overseers.
As attorney of counsel to Stearns Weaver Miller Weissler Alhadeff & Sitterson, P.A., Jennifer has also been an effective internal advocate for the DCC. “Last year we made a big push, starting with a Friday morning launch party breakfast and raffle. By the next day, we had surpassed our fundraising goal.”
“Sylvester is a tremendous resource for our community as South Florida’s only academic cancer center,” she said. “The research in Sylvester’s laboratories can make its way to clinical care, where it can make a big difference in outcomes. That’s why funding this work through the DCC is so important.”
Through the years, Jennifer’s husband, Matthew, and their three children have all taken part in the DCC, and last year she was able to run the 5K. “Taking part in the DCC is a very emotional experience for us,” she added. “I encourage other families to take part in this great event.”
Jose “Pepe” Dans joined the DCC after experiencing cancer’s devastating impact on his family. “No one is exempt from cancer,” said Pepe, founder and president of WOW MTKG, a marketing agency in Coral Gables. “But if you do get this disease, there is no better place to go than Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center.”
When Pepe was a child, cancer claimed the life of his mother and several family members on his father’s side. After marrying and starting a family, his wife, Heide, found a lump in her breast nine years ago. “It was a scary time for us,” said Pepe. “She was only 40 and we had three young children.”
Together, they turned to the experts at Sylvester for treatment. After surgery and hormone therapy, Heide is now healthy and active. “If she had been diagnosed 25 years ago, the outcome and the side effects from treatment would probably have been much worse,” said Pepe. “Thanks to Sylvester’s leading-edge care, Heide was able to weather the storm.”
But that’s not the end of Pepe’s family cancer story. In late 2018, his father, Jose, was diagnosed with advanced lung cancer. Despite state-of-the-art immunotherapy, his father passed away just a few months later.
After talking with Sylvester director Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., Pepe made a multiyear commitment to support cancer research. He also joined the DCC board and used his marketing skills to promote the 2020 fundraising event. “We got everyone in our company involved, starting with the holiday event for our clients and the media,” he said. “We wound up with more than 60 participants on Team WOW.”
About his support for the DCC, Pepe said, “My hope is that Sylvester’s scientists and clinicians can find new lifesaving treatments. When someone is touched by cancer a decade from now, I hope our contributions will have helped to make a difference.”
Dear DCC participants, teams, donors and sponsors,
The DCC began fourteen years ago with one goal in mind: to unite the community against one of the most insidious diseases of our generation — Cancer. We rallied to raise awareness and resources in the name of Jim “Mad Dog” Mandich and so many others.
Fourteen years in, the DCC has raised more than $75 million for innovative cancer research at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center. These funds have directly supported cancer research and critical studies; making new treatments possible that have positively impacted, and even saved lives. The support of the DCC assisted in Sylvester achieving the prestigious National Cancer Institute (NCI) designation that allows them to take their research and patient care to a whole new level of excellence.
As we look to the next several years of impact, we realize it’s time for us to evolve from an event into a year-round movement focused on the challenge the cancer community faces every single day. We Challenge Cancer year-round for our community, our families, and for survivors everywhere.
We have no doubt that with YOU -- our amazing team -- behind us, we will grow our impact and collectively Challenge Cancer to improve lives and patient outcomes for our next decade and beyond.
With appreciation,
Tom Garfinkel
Dear DCC Community,
Over the past fourteen years, research discoveries in the fight against cancer have evolved at such a rapid pace, there are now more potential curative therapies than ever before. For the Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, the DCC has played a crucial role in advancing our drive towards more cures.
Year after year, the funds that are raised by the DCC allows Sylvester to recruit and retain some of the world’s best minds in cancer research and provide them with the resources they need to make discoveries. In 2019, we achieved a tremendous milestone when the National Cancer Institute (NCI) placed us among the top cancer centers in the country by awarding Sylvester with an NCI-designation, recognizing our breakthrough scientific discoveries, cutting-edge cancer treatments, and community outreach programs. We are one of only two NCI-designated institutions in the state of Florida— and one of only 72 in the United States. This designation sets us apart as a leader in moving scientific discoveries from the laboratory directly to patients, and in providing the most innovative treatments in the region. None of this would be possible without the dedication and support of the Miami Dolphins and the DCC, which has steadfastly provided the much-needed resources to accelerate Sylvester's life-saving mission.
We are proud to present you with the Faces of the DCC, a project dedicated to documenting the impact that this incredible partnership has had thus far. The DCC is an event that I look forward to all year long, because it is a day of unparalleled inspiration, including the celebration of our survivors, and the remembrance of the loved ones we have lost. At Sylvester, I have the extraordinary privilege of leading an incredible team of cancer physicians and scientists who are dedicated to a shared mission: the fervent pursuit of new cancer cures for our patients. To be able to do this, with the support of our entire community, is inspirational and impactful on all of our lives.
We look forward to working with the Miami Dolphins for many more years as we continue to Challenge Cancer together.
With gratitude,
Stephen D. Nimer, M.D.
