As Victoria Cohen first started exploring weight loss surgery, she took her time—attending several informational sessions over the course of two years. Her journey wasn’t easy. A family illness and the pandemic caused delays, but her determination never wavered.“I’ve never regretted my decision for even a second,” Victoria says. “The COMP team—especially Dr. Costinett and Jana Wolff—made all the difference. They supported me through every step.”Victoria joined GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP) in November 2021. Since then, her life has transformed in more ways than she imagined.“My health and multiple problems… all dramatically improved,” she shares. “I’m no longer taking medications for diabetes and cholesterol, and I’m able to exercise. I feel great—and not to mention, I’m looking better too.”For Victoria, the impact of COMP goes far beyond numbers on a scale. It’s about reclaiming her health and confidence—and gaining the tools to live life fully. Her message for others thinking about taking the next step?“If you’re considering it, go to an info session. Learn. Ask questions. You won’t be alone. And when you’re ready, the COMP team will be there for you—just like they were for me.”Ready to transform your life? Don’t wait. Schedule your consultation with COMP today!
When Kayla joined GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP) in October 2024, she had a powerful goal in mind: to get her PCOS under control so she could start a family. Less than a year later, she’s 120 pounds down from her highest weight—and feeling stronger and more hopeful than ever.“GBMC COMP has been absolutely incredible,” Kayla says. “I’m absolutely amazed at the progress I’ve made so far.”For Kayla, the journey hasn’t just been about weight loss. It’s been about transforming her relationship with food, her energy, and her health.“The food noise is gone,” she explains. “I eat to fuel my body, not for comfort. I can move so much easier, I have more energy, and my other chronic conditions are much easier to manage.”Today, Kayla is living with more confidence and clarity—and is one step closer to her dream of becoming a parent. Her story is a powerful reminder of what’s possible with the right care, team, and mindset.Ready to take control of your health and your future? Schedule your COMP consultation today—and start your own journey!
When Emily Whitaker chose to undergo gastric bypass surgery with GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP), she hoped for a healthier future—one where she could be fully present for the people (and pets!) she loved.“I wanted to be able to have children one day and enjoy a healthy, successful pregnancy,” she shares. “I also wanted to be active in the lives of my dogs, my husband, and our future children.”Emily had her surgery on December 22, 2023, and she hasn’t looked back since. “I’ve lost over 100 pounds, and I’ve been blessed every step of the way,” she says. “The process was smooth, the communication was flawless, and the entire COMP team—from surgeons to nutritionists to the front desk—truly cares.”With her new lifestyle, Emily has discovered a love for meal prepping and even enjoys baking sugar-free desserts for friends and family. “I have so much more energy and confidence. My self-esteem is higher than ever. I’m happier, healthier, and becoming the best version of myself—one day at a time.”Now an open advocate for COMP, Emily shares her story with pride and encourages anyone considering the journey to take that first step.Start your transformation today. Take that first step with COMP. Schedule your consultation now!
Colleen Darney worked hard to manage her weight on her own. From 2009 to 2012, she came close to reaching a healthy weight. But like so many others, the pandemic disrupted her progress. “I slowly gained weight over the years,” she recalls. “And then the pandemic hit—and I gained very quickly. I tried losing it again on my own, like before, but it just wasn’t working.”Feeling like she was out of options, Colleen turned to GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP) at the recommendation of a friend. “It felt like a last resort—but from the moment I started, I felt supported. The nutrition classes and support groups were exactly what I needed.”Colleen had surgery with Dr. Timothee J. Friesen on March 28, 2023. Since then, her life has changed in ways she never imagined.“Literally everything about my life post-surgery is better,” she says. “I’m healthier, more active, and just... happier. I sleep better. I can move in ways I never thought I could. And I feel like I fit into society more effortlessly.”Travel, once a source of stress, is now a joy. “I don’t need a seat belt extender anymore when I fly,” she says. “It’s the little things that make such a big difference.”One of Colleen’s proudest accomplishments? Running her first marathon on November 30, 2024. “I’m so proud of the hard work I’ve put in. The surgery wasn’t a shortcut—it was the tool I needed to build a truly healthy life.”Colleen didn’t just change her body—she changed her life.Start your journey today. Schedule your COMP consultation now!
“It’s amazing how quickly life can change in a single day – and so drastically.” Matthew Hudson isn’t exaggerating. Just as he was beginning a new job, conducting interviews and hiring a team, a cancer diagnosis upended his life. What first appeared as hives, which he treated daily for months, proved to be a tumor at the base of his tongue. Ray Blanco, MD, FACS, Medical Director of GBMC’s Milton J. Dance, Jr., Head & Neck Center, diagnosed Matt’s cancer and quickly connected him to a team ready to treat him. Together, Dr. Blanco, Medical Oncologist Mei Tang, MD, and Geoffrey Neuner, MD, Chair of Radiation Oncology, recommended a course of concurrent chemotherapy and radiation therapy. The team advised surgery was not an option, as the tumor had crossed the midline of Matt’s tongue. Like many people facing a cancer diagnosis, Matt and his wife Rebecca sought a second and third opinion, visiting two other oncology programs in the area. One initially suggested surgery but changed their recommendation when the Hudsons inquired about the location of the tumor. When the heads of both other cancer centers ultimately agreed with the GBMC plan, the couple returned to GBMC’s Sandra & Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute. Following a tumor bleed that landed Matt in the emergency room and resulted in him being placed on a liquid-only diet, they promptly began treatment. Thanks to the individualized treatment and comprehensive care Matt received, he is now fully recovered and cancer free, almost two years post treatment. Matt was also grateful for the mix of kindness and candor he found here.“Dr. Neuner told me, ‘The good news is that you have a highly treatable and potentially curable form of cancer. The bad news is the treatment is hell. I’m not going to sugarcoat it for you, it is really rough! But we are here for you, and we will get you through it,'” Matt said. All of that has proven true. The team at GBMC stayed in regular contact with Matt and Rebecca. The oncologists and other clinicians met weekly, evaluating Matt’s progress and making any adjustments to his treatment program deemed necessary.And they weren’t the only ones ready to help. The Hudsons’ family and friends rallied around them, delivering meals and support. One friend even made time to join Matt for his weekly five hours of chemotherapy infusion. The love surrounding them is the family’s brightest memory of an intensely difficult time. Mat said Houlihan Lokey, the firm where he is an investment banker, was also supportive, flexible and accomodating.In an odd way, his heavy workload was also a blessing.“The added level of intensity gave me something to focus on other than cancer and all the challenges of treatment,” he said. “Days went by really quickly.”Matt and Rebecca’s three children: Lauren, 26; William, 23; and Martha, 19, joined them in the Radiation Oncology department in November 2022 when Matt rang the bell for his final treatment. It was a beautiful, hopeful moment, but it wasn’t quite the end of the family’s cancer experience. Due to the location of his cancer, Matt was unable to eat solid food until just before Christmas. Several weeks after that, another problem arose—an ulcer developed and became infected in a hole where the tumor had been. Dr. Neuner started Matt on antibiotics and arranged for hyperbaric oxygen treatments to accelerate healing. Treatments were two and half hours a day, five days a week for three straight months. Eventually, the treatment worked, and he recovered. Today, with those difficulties overcome, Matt remains grateful that he was treated at GBMC.“The team gets you through it all,” he said. “Everyone who took care of me, from radiologists and chemotherapy nurses to the lymphedema experts after my cancer treatment, and of course my wonderful doctors—Drs. Neuner, Tang, and Blanco—all worked to assure us that we would be okay. And, thanks to them, we are.”
Andrew Bennett’s journey with bariatric surgery, which he underwent in July 2023, has been a story of rediscovery. After years of feeling lost and unable to recognize the person he saw in the mirror, Andrew made the life-changing decision to reach out to GBMC COMP."I couldn't see me anymore in the mirror," Andrew recalls, but with the help of GBMC’s team, everything changed. “These folks, especially Dr. Watters and Madison Friel, are walking lifesavers!” From the very first virtual meeting to their guidance in macro nutrition, the team was there for him, even checking in during hospital visits. Their care went above and beyond, making sure he felt supported every step of the way. The changes in Andrew’s life have been incredible. Most importantly, Andrew now wakes up each day looking forward to what’s ahead.Knees are happier, I don’t ‘almost’ fall over lacing my shoes. The scale is not bracing for impact when I step on it. My clothes are looser, my heart is happy.If you feel like you've lost yourself and are ready to reclaim your life, the GBMC COMP team can help. Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to schedule a consultation today.
Colleen Darney’s battle with weight loss had gone on for years. Though she initially had success with programs like Weight Watchers, maintaining the results was always a struggle. When the pandemic hit in 2020, her routine drastically changed, leading to weight gain. After several frustrating attempts to lose weight, Colleen knew she needed a long-term solution.“I was sick of trying the same thing over and over again,” Colleen admits. That’s when she turned to GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program. The team provided her with the resources and support to prepare her for surgery, guiding her every step of the way.Since her surgery in March 2023, Colleen’s life has improved dramatically. “I feel so much better; I only wish I had done this sooner!” With the support of the GBMC COMP team, she’s back to running, her joints feel better, and she’s sleeping more soundly. More importantly, Colleen can now participate fully in life without worrying about her size.The GBMC COMP team is here to help you achieve your health goals and regain control of your life. Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more and take the first step today.
As a nurse and active individual, Emily Whitaker had always enjoyed the social aspects of food, using it to cope with stress and emotions. But as she looked ahead to having children and staying active with them, Emily knew she needed help. She turned to GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program, where she found a comfortable and supportive environment that has already made a huge difference in her life.“From the very beginning, COMP has been a very comfortable and supportive environment for me,” Emily shares. Just two weeks after her surgery in December 2023, she feels more energetic and alert. She’s already lost 25 pounds and is excited for the future, with her confidence and attitude toward herself improving every day.Emily’s story is just beginning, and with the continued support of the GBMC COMP team, she knows she’s on the right path. If you’re ready to start your own journey toward a healthier future, the GBMC COMP team is here for you. Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more and take the next step.
When Jared Conway decided to undergo bariatric surgery in August 2023, he knew GBMC was the right choice after researching similar programs. What stood out to him was the level of support the COMP team provided, which went beyond the typical care he saw at other hospitals.“Even though my experiences were primarily virtual, I received all of the information needed and always felt like this is a family, and I was not just a patient,” Jared explains. The GBMC COMP team’s commitment to providing personalized care before, during, and after the procedure made all the difference in his journey.Having struggled with his weight for years, Jared found bariatric surgery to be the tool he needed to achieve his health goals. His relationship with food has also transformed for the better. Now, he’s able to enjoy life in ways that were once unimaginable.I can march with my groups again as a drummer, fly comfortably, ride rollercoasters, and move without pain.”If you’re ready to experience the same level of care and support, the GBMC COMP team is here for you. Learn more about your options and schedule a consultation by visiting gbmc.org/weightloss.
Katelyn Barley’s decision to undergo bariatric surgery in November 2022 came after years of contemplation. Since as early as 2016, she had considered the procedure but was scared to admit that she needed it. When her OB/GYN suggested the surgery again in 2022, the timing felt right as Katelyn looked ahead to getting married and starting a family.From her very first interaction with GBMC’s Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP), Katelyn knew she was in the right hands. The team provided guidance every step of the way, ensuring she felt supported and confident in her decision. “I have lost 150 lbs, and I do not know how I was even functioning before surgery,” she shares. Katelyn prior to surgeryA large part of Katelyn’s success can be attributed to the expertise and compassionate care of the GBMC COMP team. The support she received made her feel less alone in her journey, and the guidance on managing her relationship with food has been transformative. “Food no longer controls my life—I had no idea how addicted I was to food until I gained this tool.”Katelyn's life has completely changed, and she’s now more active and confident about her future. If you’re ready to take control of your health, the GBMC COMP team is here to help. Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to learn more and schedule a consultation.
GBMC's philosophy is cancer survivorship begins at diagnosis.At GBMC, the Survivorship Program helps patients and families redefine “normal life” and find their way through the emotional and physical aspects of cancer."It is important to recognize the effect a diagnosis has on the entirety of a person's life," Walter Benton, Executive Director of Oncology Services at the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute, said. "At GBMC, we come to survivorship care, not only with a broad appreciation for the entire patient experience but also a personalized and caring approach to its application."Former patients of the Cancer Institute agreed:"I never felt alone during my treatment," Charlene Harven said."There was always someone available to answer my questions," Rose Hart said."It wasn't just me and my doctor going through this. It was a team and I always felt like they were pulling for me," Chris Coladonato said."I have been a grateful patient for 13 years," Jim Walter Sr. said. "When my grandson, David, was diagnosed, I was grateful to be his support person." David Walter added, "Knowing Grandpop received such excellent care took some anxiety out for me. I’m glad we could go through this together."We celebrate surviving cancer each year at GBMC's Cancer Survivorship Celebration. We spend time together each June creating a community of patients, family, friends and providers, and celebrating survivorship. At GBMC, we're more than just healthcare providers. We're your team.At GBMC, we face cancer together.
Miranda, Pre-SurgeryBefore undergoing bariatric surgery at GBMC's Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP), Miranda was struggling. She felt stuck, unhappy with her appearance, and lacked the motivation to engage in activities she once enjoyed. "I was in a rut before my surgery, never wanting to do anything and hating the way I looked," she recalls. But her life has transformed in ways she never imagined, thanks to bariatric surgery and support from the COMP team. Miranda's decision to pursue surgery was heavily influenced by her father's success with the same procedure. Seeing his improved health and vitality provided the encouragement she needed to take the first step towards a healthier lifestyle. The process began with thorough consultations and pre-surgical classes at COMP, designed to prepare patients both physically and mentally for the journey ahead. The surgery marked a turning point in Miranda's life. The physical changes were immediate and noticeable, but the most profound impact was on her self-confidence. "Because of the surgery, I have gained so much confidence and really learned my self-worth," she shares. This newfound confidence allowed Miranda to envision a future in which she can pursue her passions and dreams without the limitations that once held her back. One of the most significant changes in Miranda's life post-surgery was her ability to go after her dream job. Before the surgery, physical limitations and a lack of self-confidence made this seem out of reach. The support and care she received from the COMP team played a crucial role in this transformation, providing her with the tools and encouragement needed to succeed.Dr. Costinett and MirandaThe journey wasn't without its challenges. Adjusting to a new lifestyle and adhering to post-surgical guidelines required determination and perseverance. However, the COMP team's continuous support made a significant difference. Regular follow-ups, nutritional guidance, and access to a community of fellow patients provided Miranda with a strong support network. This comprehensive approach ensured that she was not alone in her journey, making the process more manageable. For those considering bariatric surgery, Miranda offers this advice: "Put yourself first - make your decision based on you and you, alone. And keep in mind that many of the obstacles you face are in your own head. My only regret is I didn’t do this sooner!" Interested in learning more about how GBMC's Comprehensive Obesity Management Program can help you achieve your health goals? Visit gbmc.org/weightloss to schedule a consultation and start your journey towards a healthier, more confident you.
<!-- body.g .image-left { max-width: 300px; } --> Samantha’s journey with weight and health issues reached a turning point when she decided to undergo bariatric surgery at GBMC's Comprehensive Obesity Management Program (COMP). For years, Samantha struggled with weight-related pain and health conditions, including diabetes and high blood sugar. "I was sick and tired of carrying around so much weight and the pain that it caused my body," she recalls. Out of desperation, she researched effective ways to lose weight and keep it off long term, which led her to bariatric surgery.Samantha Pre-SurgeryThe transformation Samantha experienced post-surgery has been nothing short of miraculous. In just seven months, she lost an astounding 162 pounds through gastric bypass. Activities that were once a challenge are now sources of joy and empowerment. "I can do many things now I couldn't before, such as hiking, taking my dog for long walks, lifting weights at the gym, fitting in restaurant booths, and tying my shoes comfortably." Remarkably, the weight loss has also enabled her to reverse her diabetes and maintain healthy blood sugar levels.A significant aspect of Samantha's successful journey is the support and care provided by the GBMC COMP team. She emphasizes the accessibility and compassion of the staff, stating, "The GBMC COMP team is caring and easy to reach. I owe the amazing people at GBMC my life and I am so grateful every day." For those considering bariatric surgery, Samantha's experience underscores the importance of finding a dedicated and supportive medical team. Her journey highlights the profound positive changes that can come from such a procedure, not only in terms of physical health but also in overall quality of life and emotional well-being. Samantha Post-SurgeryGBMC's COMP offers a comprehensive approach to weight loss, providing patients with the tools, support, and medical expertise needed to achieve and maintain a healthier lifestyle. Samantha's story is a powerful reminder of the potential for transformation and the new lease on life that bariatric surgery can offer. Start your journey now!
Knowing more about your risk for cancer can help reduce anxiety and prepare for the future.At the Harvey Institute for Human Genetics at GBMC, genetic counseling can assess your risk of a hereditary cancer condition, allow for discussion of genetic testing options and provide counseling on how to manage your health moving forward. This information can be useful to an entire family."For many, knowledge is power," Jennifer Billiet, MGC, Clinical Genetics counselor at the Harvey Institute for Human Genetics at GBMC HealthCare, said. "We want to empower patients with as much information as possible so they can make informed decisions about their health.""It was so helpful just to know," patient Dara Friedman-Wheeler said. "Having the information from the tests and my sessions with Jennifer has allowed me to navigate my health care with more confidence."We're more than just healthcare providers. We're your team. At GBMC, we face cancer, together.
<div> <p paraid="498300624" paraeid="{b74c3535-0e20-4dd7-a2f4-e06b2578ad50}{166}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">It was a nice surprise. As she was moving in, one of Linda Kaufman’s new neighbors called out in recognition. It wasn’t Linda whom the woman recognized, it was her dog, Hannah. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1459958055" paraeid="{b74c3535-0e20-4dd7-a2f4-e06b2578ad50}{188}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Linda and her late husband, Buddy, were longtime volunteers at GBMC – Linda served for 15 years; Buddy started soon after she did – but Hannah was the star. With Buddy holding the leash, the petite pup, a Schnauzer mix, was a popular visitor with patients across the hospital, especially in the Lois Harvey Miller Infusion Center. For several years leading up to the COVID-19 pandemic, Hannah and Buddy brightened even the most challenging of days for thousands of patients. It’s a time Linda looks back on with pride. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="128056881" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{7}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Much of Linda’s volunteer time was dedicated to helping patients and the loved ones waiting for them in the General Operating Room (GOR). She was there every Friday morning, 7:30 to 11:30 a.m., signing patients in and supporting their family members. </span> </p> <p paraid="128056881" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{7}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“You could tell the doctors appreciated the volunteers,” she recalled. “They always thanked us.” </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="2008217723" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{41}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">When she and Buddy were both in the GOR, she remembers retired surgeon Dr. John Saunders exclaiming, “The Kaufmans are here together!”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="761812238" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{61}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Among her many tasks was writing down for the surgeon a brief description of what the waiting family member was wearing and where they were seated, enabling the surgeon to find them quickly to give a post-operative report. This did more than save time. When they needed it most, it gave the family member a sense of connection to the busy surgeon, who often had multiple procedures in any given day. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1431602611" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{86}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">And when someone needed help finding their way from one part of GBMC to another, Linda was ready to help. </span> </p> <p paraid="1431602611" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{86}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I always took them, rather than give directions. I knew all the shortcuts,” she beamed. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1173325134" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{94}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">With the opening of the Louis and Phyllis Friedman Building last fall and the Sandra R. Berman Pavilion now under construction, Linda is a little less confident of her inner GBMC compass. Yet, she and Buddy will become permanently connected to GBMC when the Berman Pavilion opens. In gratitude for their gift to the Berman Pavilion capital campaign, the new Integrative Wellness Palliative Medicine Center will include the Linda and Buddy Kaufman Wellness Center. The multi-purpose room will host support groups, yoga classes and countless other programs that will help patients and survivors living with cancer. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1646513901" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{114}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Linda’s experience as a cancer patient at GBMC inspired her to give. She credits </span><span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun" data-ccp-charstyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"d3125f03-0a6d-4ced-b4cb-84c032011012|33","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[469775450,"normaltextrun",201340122,"1",134233614,"true",469778129,"normaltextrun",335572020,"1",469778324,"Default Paragraph Font"]}">Gary I. Cohen,</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun"> </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun">MD, FACP, FASCO, </span></span><span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">with saving her life when he arranged for her participation in a clinical trial.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="422955646" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{132}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">In recent years, GBMC’s embrace of Integrative Wellness Palliative Medicine, which was added to the Sandra and Malcolm Berman Cancer Institute by Herman and Walter Samuelson Medical Director </span><span data-contrast="none" xml:lang="EN-US"><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun">Paul Celano, MD, FACP, FASCO,</span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun"> </span><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun">sparked her interest. </span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="2011910766" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{152}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">“I believe in mind-body therapies that work alongside medical treatments,” Linda explained. “This feels like a natural fit to me.”</span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1590463685" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{168}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">The room will celebrate a couple who devoted much of their lives to serving others. After their children, Steven and Amy, were grown and Buddy sold his business, Equipment Leasing, they both became active volunteers. In addition to her work at GBMC, Linda volunteered with Jewish Family Services (JFS) Mitzvah Mobility. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="1960008825" paraeid="{8b74bae9-f635-4e87-bac8-fd6b65645f10}{212}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">In 1990, the family took on more personal volunteer work when they founded the Steven Kaufman AIDS Outreach Project through JFS. When Steven died from AIDS, they turned that tragic loss into support for patients, caregivers, parents, partners, and anyone in the community who had been touched by AIDS. They facilitated meetings and shared information in schools about AIDS treatment and prevention for 10 years, determined to remove the stigma that prevented Steven from speaking up when he was diagnosed in the early ‘80s. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559739":120,"335559740":240}"> </span> </p> </div> <div> <p paraid="475868593" paraeid="{58055c68-cf2b-42ff-b4f7-72b13c72a677}{29}"> <span data-contrast="auto" xml:lang="EN-US">Now that she has retired from volunteering, Linda is glad to know the couple’s legacy at GBMC will live on, not only in the new home of the Berman Cancer Institute, but in the hearts of grateful patients across the region.</span> </p> </div>
