In early May, Kendall resident Michael D’Amour learned some life-changing news. After multiple diagnostic exams, surgical procedures and finally a PET scan, Michael was diagnosed with Stage IVb Hodgkin’s Lymphoma with severe involvement in his bones.
He began his fight immediately with a physically demanding and aggressive regimen of chemotherapy that would put him at high risk for infections and result in multiple prolonged hospitalizations, bone pain, and several blood and platelet transfusions. Jenniffer Quiel, Michael’s girlfriend, is a rehab nurse liaison at HealthSouth Rehab Hospital of Miami. Her understanding of his procedures has been invaluable. Through it all, Michael has remained strong, and positive.
Jenniffer, his family and support team want to honor him as he enters the home stretch of his treatments and looks ahead into a new life in remission.
Quiel became involved with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society when she found out that Michael was diagnosed with lymphoma. On Oct. 29, she hosted her first event with the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society to honor Michael, show him he had many supporters, and to raise money for research.
Many friends, family and South Miami Hospital staff, social workers, and doctors from his case came out to support the cause. It was a huge success.
Two special guests spoke in depth and made lymphoma research and recovery personal for everyone in the room. Alexandra Benitez, a two-time lymphoma survivor and Lisa Welsh, PAC, Michael’s doctor who works at the Miami Cancer Institute. The guests learned much about the importance of research and the value of supporting the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
Neiman Marcus graciously sponsored the event as well as donated items for the live auction. Other sponsors included Bloomingdale’s, Town Kitchen & Bar, George’s Restuarant, MAC cosmetics, Misha’s Cupcakes, The Blonde Tulip, JW Cooper, Myra’s Salon & Day Spa, The Adrianne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami, and Premier Designs Inc.
“The generous donations by businesses in the community is so important to the success of any fundraiser and is deeply appreciated,” Quiel said.
You can contribute to Michael’s recovery at http://pages.lightthenight.org/sfl/bayfrnt15/JQuiel. Visit the Light
The Night walk website at www.Lightthenight.org/sfl.
