September 29, 2006

Bracelets support MGH breast cancer research

Much like the show of support that the yellow rubber bracelets have made for Lance Armstrong's LiveStrong™ organization, supporters of the MGH's Breast Cancer Research and Education Fund now can be a part of the fight against breast cancer by wearing attractive, colorful, beaded bracelets.

In honor of Mel Simmons, an MGH breast cancer patient who died last year, and in support of the MGH Breast Cancer Research and Education Fund, the whimsical bracelets indicate the wearer's support for breast cancer research and education. Simmon's friends, Pauline Alighieri and Marie Bradley, launched the bracelet sales that already have raised more than $300,000. All proceeds benefit the MGH fund.

"Everyone who knew Mel was touched by her vibrant and loving spirit," said Alighieri. "Wearing the bracelet is a way of honoring her memory while helping support the fight against breast cancer. This is something that was close to Mel's heart."

Alighieri and Bradley recently were honored for their charitable work at an event held in the Howard Ulfelder, MD, Healing Garden at the MGH. The cocktail reception included guests Jessica Simmons Lopez, Mel's daughter, and Jerry Younger, MD, and Nancy Schaeffer, RN, both of whom were on Mel's treatment team.

The bracelets are available at the Images Boutique on Yawkey 9 and at www.melsbracelets.org.

Left, Alighieri