August 5, 2005

MGH Cancer Center receives donations to help battle sarcoma

The MGH Cancer Center recently received two generous donations from families of former patients to help battle sarcoma — a rare and devastating form of cancer that affects the connective tissue. Both donations will benefit sarcoma research conducted by David Harmon, MD, of the MGH Hematology/Oncology Unit.

The Hunter Yates family presents Jennifer's caregivers with a check.

The Hunter Yates family presented a check to Harmon June 29 to benefit the Jennifer Hunter Yates Sarcoma Fund at the MGH Cancer Center — named in memory of Jennifer, an MGH patient who battled sarcoma for 17 months. The family raised $75,000 through the "12,402 Steps to Cure Sarcoma Walk" May 7 in Hudson, Mass. The 12,402 steps represent the number of days Jennifer had lived. "This is a proud day for the Hunter Yates family," said Bob, Jennifer's husband. "Jen always referred to the MGH as her home, so it was an easy decision as to where this donation would go. We are extremely happy to be able to help fight this disease."

As part of his Eagle Scout project, 17-year-old Justin Stanton organized a walk "One Step Closer to a Cure" June 4 in memory of his father, Kenneth, also an MGH patient who died from cancer in January. Stanton and his family presented the $30,000 check to Harmon Aug. 2. "When Justin sets his mind on something, he goes after what he wants and gives it all he has," said his mother, Ann. "I'm extremely proud of him." Stanton hopes to make this walk an annual event.

The Stanton family with the team that helped care for Kenneth Stanton.