MMRF Accelerator Magazine Summer 2015 Edition | Page 24

Independent events There are over 80 events that take place around the country hosted by amazing individuals like Ryan and Jana, who are both patients. These events raised close to $1 million for our critical research. 2015 Cancer Blows event Cancer Blows Memphis Miles for Myeloma When world-class trumpeter Ryan When Jana Stressel, who has multiple Anthony was preparing for a stem cell Ryan Anthony their Memphis Miles for Myeloma transplant to treat his newly diagnosed multiple myeloma, his friend Doc Severinsen called to ask if there was anything he could do. “When I get myeloma, and her husband Jay started And they succeeded to the tune of over $800,000! 4 Mile Run/1 Mile Walk five years ago, they never dreamed it would be so much more than a way to support the MMRF. through this,” Ryan said, “I want to stand When Ryan was diagnosed with multiple Today it is a very special gathering and on stage with you one more time.” myeloma, he was considered high risk and support system for all those touched by unlikely to respond to treatment. Today, multiple myeloma, and has raised nearly he is in remission. He is being treated $100,000. “People come from all over with a medication that was funded and now,” says Jana. “If you’re in Memphis championed by the MMRF. November 14, 2015, you won’t want That was the inspiration for what became a once-in-a-lifetime musical event called Cancer Blows, which took place on March 4, 2015, thanks to the to miss it!” memphismilesformyeloma. efforts of Ryan and his wife Niki. It While Ryan knows that one day he will featured Doc Severinsen, Lee Loughnane need a new treatment, he is encouraged from the band Chicago, Arturo Sandoval, by the progress the MMRF is making: former trumpet players from Canadian “Look at all the options that the MMRF Brass and other musical friends. Their is bringing to the table. I know we can goal was to raise both awareness and do this. But I also know it’s not going to money for cancer research, with a focus happen without financial support.” on blood cancers and multiple myeloma. cancerblows.com 24 racesonline.com Jay and Jana Stressel T HE MMRF.ORG