Meet People Like You

At the heart of every charitable act lies a unique and inspiring story. Heinz Beer’s journey from a challenging childhood in Switzerland to becoming a generous supporter of City of Hope is a testament to the power of resilience, compassion and the joy that comes from giving.

Marcia and Jim Brammer are active members of the City of Hope Board of Governors, a group of volunteers who raise funds for research at City of Hope to fight life-threatening diseases. But their relationship with City of Hope began when their son Brian Lambert was treated at City of Hope for acute myeloid leukemia, ultimately receiving two bone marrow transplants.

Rona and Leon Cole’s history with City of Hope reaches back for generations. Leon’s mother and uncles were deeply involved supporters in the 1950s, and both the Coles and other members of their families have personal experience with cancer. But their involvement today has also had its roots in a very special relationship.

When Janice Dell came to City of Hope for treatment, she noticed right away that it was a very different type of hospital: “I’m sure that I just looked like a deer in headlights at first because I was so scared. Everyone I met — from the person at the front desk to anyone I saw in the hallways — would say hello to me, and if I looked lost, they would help me. And I have never been in an environment like that.”

A lifetime friendship is always something special, but the friendship between Bob Elsner, John Koehler and John’s wife, K.C., is particularly remarkable. More than friends, they are family. So, when John got sick, Bob and K.C., supported him together.

Diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia in October 2013, Manuel Espinosa was admitted to City of Hope. Under the treatment of Margaret O’Donnell, M.D., he received chemotherapy and was cancer free within a month of being admitted. Manuel shares, “City of Hope gave me my life back. With young children, I am taking advantage of this blessing I was given. I’m not just living, I’m thriving.”

Now that they are retired, Roberta (“Birdie”) and Bob Feldman are looking for ways to simplify their life and spend more time on the water. They decided to demonstrate their support for the lifesaving research and care City of Hope provides by making a gift of real estate: an apartment building they bought as an investment years ago.

Giving has been a part of Nancy Jo Flint’s life since she was a teenager. Instead of throwing Nancy Jo a 12th birthday party, her mother took her to California Hospital in Los Angeles, launching six years of Saturdays as a “candy striper” during which Nancy Jo donated her time and compassion to people in need.

Helga and Jurgen Hahneiser retired after 40 years of owning a successful restaurant. As time went on, they began to revisit their financial goals. Because of their personal experience with cancer, Helga and Jurgen wanted to give back to a cause that was meaningful to them. “We trust City of Hope to use our gift for the purpose it’s given,” shares Helga. “If you are thinking of how you can make a difference, supporting City of Hope is truly worthwhile.”

Roy Hartwick and Duane Dickeson’s relationship was born of deep mutual respect, shared laughter, and a commitment to living life to the fullest. They met at a neighborhood event in 2000, and quickly became inseparable. Both settling in California for retirement —they were ready to embrace a new chapter of relaxation, adventure and giving back.

“Hope was our favorite word even before I was told I had cancer,” shares Stephen Hasper, who received a diagnosis of multiple myeloma in March of 2014. In the months ahead, he and his wife, Joyce, would discover that their favorite word was more important to their lives than ever as they learned about City of Hope and soon became a patient family.

In 1984, Aruna Jindal, a 29-year-old mother with two young boys, was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL), a devastating and aggressive form of cancer. Aruna and her husband, Umesh, were shocked by her diagnosis, but were determined to see her survive and live a full life.

“When I married Don, I knew I was not only marrying into his family, I was also marrying into City of Hope as the family charity,” laughs Lois Hoffman. “Of course, it was easy for me to adopt City of Hope because I believed in it, too.”

“As we thought about the legacy we want to leave, we started looking for a group that will use our money wisely,” says Debbra Jacobs-Robinson. “We couldn’t find a better mission than disease research and helping people who are ill.” Debbra and her husband Dave decided to create a charitable gift annuity to benefit City of Hope.

Marc Jacoby first encountered City of Hope in 1973 when he was diagnosed with a testicular tumor. At 25 years old, with a 6-month-old baby, he was given only a 1% chance of survival. But his City of Hope surgeon encouraged him: “I really believe you will make it . . . ” That was more than 45 years ago!

When Bryan Kuhl was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 2011, he searched for the best care available — which led him to City of Hope. And while he was confident that City of Hope could offer top of the line treatment, he made his decision because of the care demonstrated by everyone he met: “The emotional component of having cancer needs to be treated just as the illness does,” says Bryan.

Doris and Bob Mayfield were the epitome of the ’50’s power couple. Fun-loving and well-traveled, they trekked all over the United States and visited exotic places around the world, thanks to Bob’s job as an engineer.

Donna McNutt was 54 years old when she was diagnosed with Stage 4 multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer that forms in plasma cells of the immune system. “We are so fortunate to have a leading cancer center nearby. Anyone who knows me understands what City of Hope means to me and my journey,” Donna shares.

Nestled in Southern California, Jeffrey Okyle’s life unfolds as proof of the enduring power of family values. His journey to a life of charity is an intriguing blend of a traditional upbringing and a foundation of helping others in need — a foundation that set the stage for Jeffrey to include City of Hope in his life and his legacy.

“City of Hope is a place that saves lives,” says Chuck O’Shea. “I know, because I’m one of the people whose life they’ve saved.” Chuck’s diagnosis of Non-Hodgkin lymphoma was a crushing blow to him and his wife, Eileen. Early doctor visits left them with doubts about Chuck’s medical team; then a friend, who was also a nurse at City of Hope, introduced them to Auayporn Nademanee, M.D.

“Judy and I know we could never repay the City of Hope staff for saving our lives on two separate occasions each, but we have decided to revise our living trust so that some of our resources will be used by City of Hope to treat others who are facing catastrophic disease.” shares Duane Preimsberger. “That’s a legacy we believe is well worth leaving, and we are delighted to do that as a token for the faith, hope and love we have for this truly remarkable place!”

Christine Rotgers doesn’t consider herself a trailblazer. But she is. Her mother was a homemaker and her father a sawyer whose education peaked before high school. And three of her grandparents were illiterate. Christine, however, attended college and earned a bachelor’s degree in bacteriology. After college, she followed one of her colleagues to the Los Angeles area.

Sylvia Silverberg is a role model for how to stay vital as you age. At age 83, she regularly presents humor programs for clubs near her home in Florida. She also plays the leading role in making decisions about her finances.

Margaret Smith lived a quiet life in Marietta, Georgia, with her husband, Skip. In 2002, her life took a turn when she was diagnosed with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). Her doctors reassured her that CLL was manageable, and most patients outlived it. By 2015, her scans showed no signs of the disease, astonishing her oncologist.

Judy Sonney’s support for City of Hope became even more personal when her neighbor became ill. “The work they do with research and the clinical trials with many types of cancer and other illnesses give so many patients hope and longer lives,” Judy shares. “I think that is very, very important. My hope is that those clinical trials will become routine treatments and that patients all over the world will benefit.”

Judy Tenuta, renowned as “The Love Goddess” of comedy, not only tickled funny bones, but also touched hearts with her generosity. While her humor earned her a devoted fanbase, it was her selfless spirit that truly set her apart.

The story of Michael Thomas’ gift to City of Hope starts more than 100 years ago, when his great-grandfather purchased 80 acres of farmland. His great-grandparents gave 20 acres to his grandparents to help fund his father’s education.

Like so many others, Nancy and Chuck Trudeau have felt the impact of cancer. Nancy’s parents and grandparents each developed cancer at an early age, and Chuck’s father and three grandparents passed away from cancer. “Back then, you couldn’t even say the word cancer — we called it The Big C,” shares Nancy.

Barry Tyson gives to City of Hope in memory of his first wife, Maureen, who died of breast cancer in 1993. She was not treated at City of Hope. In fact, Barry wonders whether things would have been different if she had been.

“What makes City of Hope so special to me is how patients are treated. At City of Hope, healing is a journey you take together,” shares Lisa Vargas. “When you walk in, you feel like you’re being given a big hug and the assurance that they are there for you. This is why I decided to extend my current support to the future.”

Sisters Marilyn Wallace and Sami Freedman moved to Los Angeles in 1966. Their personal connections with City of Hope and their interest in supporting innovative research have placed City of Hope at the forefront of their many philanthropic interests. “Their work reaches beyond California — it will help people all over the world,” says Marilyn.

From her humble beginnings in Colombia to her prosperous life in California, Ines’ journey is a reminder of the lasting impact we can leave behind. Through careful planning, she ensures her family will be cared for while making a difference and creating hope for those battling cancer, diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses.

Lenora Yuen began her life in the serene beauty of Hawaii and later, as an adult, settled in the vibrant landscape of Southern California. Her story is not just one of picturesque locales and peaceful moments. It includes resilience, survival and the profound impact of support received when battling cancer.