Winter 2023
By Colleen Sullivan
Donor and patient advocate Michael Blitzer recently renewed his support of melanoma research at Dana-Farber with a $650,000 commitment to further pioneering studies under the direction of his doctor, Elizabeth Buchbinder, MD.
Inspired by the care he has received as a melanoma patient, Blitzer has become increasingly more engaged in the Institute’s mission over the years. He serves on the Adult Patient and Family Advisory Council, whose members share their perspectives and experiences to help guide better care services, programs, and policies at the Institute. Part of this work for Blitzer has included speaking at legislative events to increase support for research into precision medicine and the use of artificial intelligence in cancer research and care.
“It’s a really exciting time to be in medicine,” said Blitzer. “I’m humbled and excited to have a little bit to do with the groundbreaking advancements taking place, and I’m proud to represent Dana-Farber. You just say ‘Dana-Farber,’ and everyone is respectful. Everyone knows the standard of excellence we have here.”
“I’m humbled and excited to have a little bit to do with the groundbreaking advancements taking place, and I’m proud to represent Dana-Farber.”
Michael Blitzer
Blitzer’s latest gift supports a fund he created in honor of his late wife, Susan. Blitzer says that creating a legacy on behalf of his family, one that he hopes his children will continue after he has passed, is important to him—but not for the recognition. He and his family give their money and their time because it’s the right thing to do: “I wake up every morning and try to help as many people as I can.”
“I’m very grateful to Michael for his steady support of my work over the years,” said Buchbinder. “His continued involvement at the Institute demonstrates his dedication to Dana-Farber’s mission, something I have seen in him from the beginning. People like Michael are making a real impact on cancer medicine.”