Meet Heather Venkatesh, YPB Member

Heather Venkatesh, YPB Member

Heather's heart is purple for her dad, Ron. He was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in February 2012. He underwent the Whipple procedure on Feb. 29, 2012 to remove the tumor and followed up with recommended chemotherapy and radiation. "My dad is eager to gain back his strength so he can return to his active lifestyle. I feel very fortunate that the cancer was detected before it was too late," Heather said.

Now, for some fun facts about Heather...

Her favorite sports team is any Mizzou team, although they have been disappointing lately!

Heather's favorite restaurant in Chicago is Gibson’s. "My husband and I had our first date and rehearsal dinner there. I love my steak - you can’t beat a nice filet." 

In the summer, Heather likes to walk along Lake Michigan and go to Oak St. beach.

One word that best describes her is all qualities CAPRICORN.

Heather is a marketing professional at the American Hospital Association and resides in Chicago's River North neighborhood. She went to the University of Missouri for undergrad and is currently pursuing her MBA at Kellogg School of Management. Heather grew up in Roselle, IL.

Meet Andrew Roberts, YPB Member

Andrew Roberts, YPB Member

Andrew's heart is purple for his friend and fellow YPB member, Heather Rosenberg. "While I never had the pleasure of knowing her father personally, I witness the embodiment of his strength in Heather every day. While I cannot pretend to know the hurt that comes with losing a parent, I feel it is my duty to do my part to prevent that hurt from touching others."

Now, for some fun facts about Andrew...

His favorite quote: “Cancer can take away all of my physical abilities. It cannot touch my mind, it cannot touch my heart, and it cannot touch my soul. And those three things are going to carry on, forever.” – Coach Jim Valvano

Andrew's grandfather, Wallace Roberts, inspires him. He passed away from lymphoma in 2002. A survivor of polio as a child, Wally was never willing to let his disability affect his daily life or his work as a farmer. Bedridden from the chemotherapy and radiation, my grandpa still had an endless supply of jokes and smiles. He will always drive me to be strong.

As a child, Andrew wanted to be a Centerfielder for the Chicago Cubs when he grew up.

Andrew is a consultant and currently resides in Chicago's River North neighborhood. He went to Miami University and is from Buffalo Grove, IL.

Meet our Founder, Jim Rolfe

Jim Rolfe with YPB Members at Casino Night

Along with family and friends, Jim Rolfe started the Michael Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation in 1999. His heart is purple for his father, Mike, who passed away at the very young age of 61. "In simple words, my father was my best friend and hero. My value system is a product of his guidance, support, respectfulness of others and wisdom. I miss him very much, think of him daily and believe how truly proud he would be of all us who have come together to fight this horrific disease." 

Jim is inspired by all of his board members, YPB members and donors who donate their time and money to the organization. "I am continually impressed with the ambition and drive of our people as we continue to expand our organization. Together, we are making a difference."

Now, for some fun facts about Jim...

His favorite quote is “Do unto others as you would have others do unto you.”

He loves Chicago sports teams: Cubs, Bears and Bulls.

A hobby Jim enjoys is building Lego items with his six year old son.

His favorite restaurant in Chicago is Joe’s Stone Crab.

When he was a child, he wanted to be a Big League baseball player.

Jim's favorite summer activities are water balloon fights with his kids and golfing.

A word that describes Jim is thoughtful.

Jim is a Managing Director, Commercial Banking at The PrivateBank & Trust Company. He received his undergraduate degree from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and his MBA from Kellogg School of Management. He resides in Highland Park.