Hope in Action: Breast Friends Fund Raises Spirits and Funds for MBC Research

Thursday, March 28, 2024

In April 2015, Sandy Cassanelli received life-changing news: a diagnosis of metastatic breast cancer (MBC). Rather than allowing fear to overwhelm her, Sandy embraced her diagnosis with unwavering determination. “When I was diagnosed with MBC, I did my homework to see what organizations gave the most to research for the cure,” Sandy recalls. “We were shocked that most Breast Cancer organizations only give 7-10% of money to research, which is why we founded Breast Friends Fund (BFF), which donates 100% to MBC research.”
 
Sandy Cassanelli for Business West [photo by Leah Martin Photography]
 
Sandy saw her illness not as a setback, but as an opportunity to shed light on metastatic breast cancer, advocate for crucial research, and provide hope to others facing similar challenges. With this resolve, she established BFF, dedicated to supporting metastatic breast cancer research at Yale Cancer Center.
 
Sandy with Dr. Eric Winer at the 2024 Taste the Cure event
[all subsequent photos taken by Carrie Draghi Photography]
 
Teaming up with Yale New Haven Health’s Smilow Cancer Hospital and Yale Cancer Center, Sandy found steadfast allies in her fight. Her oncologist, Dr. Eric Winer, became not only a medical advisor but also a cherished friend and partner in raising awareness and funds for MBC. Dr. Winer, Director of the Yale Cancer Center and President & Physician-in-Chief of Smilow Cancer Hospital, is an internationally renowned expert in breast cancer, having led and collaborated on innumerable clinical trials that have changed the face of the disease. His expertise in breast cancer research and his commitment to collaborative efforts have been invaluable to their cause.
 
Sandy and her daughters greet their guests attending the fundraiser
 
A cornerstone of their fundraising efforts is the annual event, ‘Taste the Cure,’ where participants enjoy an evening of gourmet food, wine tasting, auctions, and camaraderie. It’s more than just fundraising; it’s a celebration of hope and unity, with all proceeds directly supporting metastatic breast cancer research under Dr. Winer’s guidance at Yale Cancer Center. Yale Conferences & Events has proudly assisted with Taste the Cure for the past three years, including the sold-out 2024 event at the Glastonbury Hills Country Club on March 15th. The online auction continues to accept bids until April 3rd, and donations are always welcomed and deeply appreciated.
 
Sandy acknowledges fellow MBC surviors Dr. Eric Winer shares a story with the audience
Yale Conferences & Events staff members Auction items available to motivated bidders
Through the Breast Friends Fund, Sandy ensures that every dollar raised goes directly towards advancing research efforts. Her commitment to transparency and accountability has resonated deeply with supporters, who wholeheartedly rally behind her cause.
 
But Sandy’s journey isn’t solely about fundraising—it’s about building a community, providing support to those affected by breast cancer, and amplifying their voices. “Living with MBC for the past nine years has shown my supporters the ups and downs of this disease,” she shares. “I simply am honest and share my story.” This authenticity has garnered immense support from her community. 
 
Silent auction at the end of the night Beautiful details from the event set-up
With her family beside her, Sandy has turned Breast Friends Fund into a family endeavor, embodying values of love, resilience, and compassion. “Breast Friend Fund is something my family and I do together,” she reveals, proudly acknowledging her husband, Craig, and two daughters, Samantha and Amanda, as her greatest accomplishments.
 
Sandy with her husband, Craig, and two daughters, Samantha and Amanda
 
Breast Friends Fund has become a beacon of hope, raising over $1,461,073 in total contributions as of March 26, 2024. Yet, Sandy’s mission extends beyond numbers. “Most people have no idea what MBC is,” she laments. “My hope is to raise awareness of MBC and its deadly nature.” Through her advocacy, Sandy ensures that the voices of survivors and patients remain at the forefront of her mission.
 
Mala for the Cure handmade jewelry Some of the many sponsors of the event
Jill Barry, Connecticut State Representative Many wines available for tasting
Moreover, Sandy’s work goes beyond raising awareness; she provides tangible support and resources to those affected by breast cancer. “I offer support to anyone who wants and needs to talk,” she affirms. In addition to BFF, Sandy also participates in initiatives like the MBC conference at Yale, both of which serve as platforms for education and community-building.
 
With unwavering determination and the support of her community, Sandy guides those affected by breast cancer, offering hope in the face of adversity. Her journey stands as a testament to resilience, collaboration, and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
 

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