Meet Robin Goldberg, YPB Member

Robin Goldberg, YPB Member

Robin’s heart is purple for her mother, Susan Goldberg. “My mom was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in 2004 and lost her battle in 2005. My mom was an incredible woman, passionate about her family, friends and the community and always standing up for what she believed in.  She was a strong person who never backed down without a fight. I joined the board to continue my mom's fight and to honor her memory and legacy. ”

When asked for a favorite memory of her mother, Robin replied, “The summer before my mom passed, my brother and sister were living in New York so my mom, dad and I decided to take a trip to visit them. New York was always one of my mom’s favorite cities; the phrase ‘shop til you drop’ truly defined her. However, this trip was different than any other. She was so weak and so sick that she was barely able to make it out long without having to go back to the hotel to rest. The fun filled weekend we had all planned turned into a depressing touch of reality that made us all angry and irritable. When it was time to head home, my mom, dad and I left for the airport, beaten down by the outcome of the weekend. When we got to the airport it turned out that our flight had been cancelled. Instead of staying at the airport hoping to get on a later flight, we decided it would be best for my mom if we just booked a flight for the following day. With one more day to spend in NY we decided to do what all good tourists do and go to Bloomingdale's. The store was near closing but we still had a few minutes to shop around. Riding up the elevator my mom looked at herself in the mirror and started to cry. The reality of her sickness had hit and she hated the toll it had taken on her looks. At that moment we decided it would be a great idea if she got a makeover. Although the store was supposed to close soon, the nice woman at the makeup counter decided to help us anyway. An hour later, the women handed my mom a mirror and everything changed. She was a new woman; there was a glow in her face and a sparkle in her eye that we had not seen since before her diagnosis. Throughout her entire sickness we never saw her look this happy. At this moment her whole demeanor changed, she was happy, confident and full of energy. With this newfound energy, we decided to give the weekend one more try and go out to a nice dinner. The weekend that had started out miserable had finally changed. For that one night we had forgotten about her sickness and were all happy.  We left that night with a little bit of hope and a feeling that everything was going to be OK. This was the last time the 5 of us would ever spend together, but it is a night that I will never forget.”

Now, for some fun facts about Robin…

At one point, Robin had been a kickboxing instructor when she lived in Atlanta, 

Robin’s favorite summer activity in Chicago is “Anything outside! I love going to Ravinia for a concert in the park or just having drinks on a rooftop or patio.”

When asked where she would go if she could go anywhere in the world on vacation, Robin responded, “I love traveling and my list of desired locations is robust but right now I think top of the list might be Greece.”

Robin is a native of Birmingham, AL and currently lives in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. She graduated with a BA from the University of Arizona. She currently works as Account Director at ignition, an experiential marketing agency.8675309;">Save
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Meet Ryan Shepherd, YPB Member

Ryan Shepherd, YPB Member

Ryan's heart is purple for his grandfather Rollo Kuebler. “My Grandpa was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in December of 2011. He fought hard and lived to see the birth of his first great grandchild before losing his battle in July of 2012. The swiftness of this disease and the lack of warning signs drove me to get involved with the YPB and support early detection research.”

Now, for some fun facts about Ryan...

Ryan's favorite quote is "The most dangerous phrase in the language is, ‘We've always done it this way.’ - Grace Hopper."

His favorite sports teams are “the Notre Dame Fighting Irish and my hometown teams, the Nashville Predators and Tennessee Titans."

Ryan’s favorite summer activity in Chicago is “watching fireworks on the 4th of July from a rooftop in West Town. The 360 degree, hours long vista is a truly unique Chicago experience.” When asked what his favorite restaurant in the city is, Ryan replied “I have a soft spot for the Costa Rican cuisine at Irazu. Being BYOB doesn't hurt either.”

Ryan’s dream vacation is “to hop on a train in Lisbon and take it across Europe to Istanbul. In the meantime, I am working on a trip across central Europe to Munich, Prague, and Vienna.”

Ryan is a native of Nashville, TN and currently lives in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood. He graduated with a BA from the University of Notre Dame and with a MBA from Vanderbilt University. He currently works in Enterprise Sales at Microsoft.

Meet Joe Meginnes, YPB Member

Joe Meginnes, YPB Member

Joe's heart is purple for his many friends and their families who have lost loved ones to pancreatic cancer. "Since I started working with the Rolfe Foundation, I've discovered many more personal connections to pancreatic cancer than I ever knew existed. This disease has been so ruthless to so many." 

When asked for a favorite memory of someone who was touched by pancreatic cancer, Joe responded, "I love seeing pancreatic cancer survivors at our meetings and events and knowing that our Board is doing everything in its power to grow their numbers."

Now, for some fun facts about Joe...

Joe was challenged and inspired by something he saw recently on the blog Wait But Why: 

"I think a great way to be a good person is to get in the habit of consciously thinking about the fact that almost every stranger, co-worker, friend, acquaintance, fling, customer service representative, driver, waiter, customer, client, neighbor, and person on the internet you come across: 

-Has a family who loves them and vice versa 
-Has hopes and dreams and regrets and frustrations 
-Has as many thoughts going through their head at all times as you do 
-Is dealing with random health problems, trying to make ends meet financially, and is probably tired 
-Might be supporting one or more other human beings 
-Might be just a little sad all the time about a tragedy in their past
-Might be the most important person in someone else’s life 
-Is just trying to figure out how to be happy

i.e. They’re a full human just like you." 

One of Joe's favorite summer activities in Chicago is "watching a great band play an evening set at a street festival or other outdoor venue."

His favorite restaurants in the city are The Publican and Irazu. 

Growing up, Joe aspired to be the GM of the Chicago Cubs. 

When asked who inspires him, Joe replied: "People who give of themselves without any promise of future return." 

One word that describes Joe is "genuine." 

When asked where he would go if he could go anywhere in the world on vacation, Joe replied "Machu Picchu, Spain, or Alaska." 

Joe said that one goal he would like to accomplish during his lifetime would be to "explore all 50 states with my wife Amy."

Meet Matthew Lescohier, YPB Member

Matthew Lescohier, YPB Member

Matthew's heart is purple for his Uncle Rick, who was diagnosed with stage IV pancreatic cancer last summer and is still fighting the disease. "We are blessed with a large extended family in the area that is supporting my uncle and his family but I still felt helpless and that I wanted to do more. I decided to get involved in the board to show my support, and to provide an outlet for other family members that I thought might feel the same as me."

When asked for a favorite memory about his uncle, Matthew responded, "There are so many great times I have shared with Rick. When I was younger, Rick, my brother Andy and I used to watch the Three Stooges together, and just laugh and laugh. Rick does a fantastic impression of Curly, and helped me hone one of my own." 

Now, for some fun facts about Matthew...

Matthew's favorite quote is "Accept the past, enjoy the present and work hard towards the future."

When asked who inspires him, Matthew said, "The way my uncle has handled the challenges of the disease has been inspiring. I also admire people like Bill Gates that pledge their time, energy and money towards making the world a better place.."

His favorite sports teams are the Bears, Blackhawks, Bulls and Illini, and his favorite summer activities in Chicago include "going to the lake to windsurf, sail or play beach volleyball." 

When asked where he would go if he could go anywhere in the world on vacation, Matthew replied, "Australia and New Zealand are at the top of my current list."

Growing up, Matthew aspired to be "an architect or astronaut, depending on the day."

Matthew said that one goal he would like to accomplish during his lifetime would be to "celebrate my 50th wedding anniversary."

Matthew is a Chicago native and currently lives in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood. He graduated with a BSME from UIUC in '02 and with a MBA from UChicago in '07. He currently works as a Senior Director of Alliances and Channel at MapR Technologies.

Meet Clare Willis, YPB Member

Clare Willis, YPB Member

Clare's heart is purple for her grandma. According to Clare, "My grandma was a remarkable woman who traveled the world making friends everywhere she went. She inspired my curiosity and creativity. She was also a tireless volunteer. Pancreatic cancer took her within three weeks of her diagnosis. I am involved in the YPB to fight the cancer that took her and to honor her legacy of volunteer work."

When asked about her favorite memory of her grandma, Clare replied, "I used to sleep over at my grandma's condo. We would knit, talk, eat, and watch ballroom dancing and British comedies on PBS. She loved to laugh."

Now, for some fun facts about Clare...

Clare has been collecting bottle caps since a New Years Eve party in 2001. "I have over 300 different caps and no idea what to do with them."

Her favorite sports team is the Chicago Bears and her favorite part of summer in Chicago is "being able to walk everywhere."

When asked who inspires her, Clare replied, "My husband Chris is always looking for ways to take his time and talents and use them to help others."

As a child, Clare aspired to be "first female president of the United States or a children's book author." Clare is now the mom to a sweet little boy who loves "Hamilton, dinosaurs, and fruit."

When asked where she would go if she could go anywhere in the world on vacation, she responded, "Tokyo."

Clare is from Antioch, IL and currently lives in Chicago's Edison Park neighborhood. She graduated with a BA from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, JD from Chicago-Kent College of Law and MSLIS from University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. She currently works as a Research Librarian at Chicago-Kent College of Law.

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Meet Megan Bornhauser, YPB Member

Megan Bornhauser, YPB Member

Megan's heart is purple for her grandpa, Jim Bornhauser. "My grandpa was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in January of 2011 a month before turning 88 and had always been in good health. The cancer advanced quickly and he was hospitized and on hospice by his 88th birthday on Valentine's Day. A few short, but tremendously hard months later he passed away on April 20th."

As Megan recalls, "My favorite memory about my grandpa is that he was always a joy to be around and never met a stranger. He also always kept hard candy and tootsie rolls in his pocket."

Now, for some fun facts about Megan...

Megan's favorite quote is one from her grandpa: "Have a great day and a better tomorrow."

Her favorite sports teams are the St. Louis Cardinals and the Mizzou Tigers.

Megan enjoys golfing and golfed in college as an undergraduate. In the summer, her favorite activity is "anything at the pool." In the winter, Megan enjoys skiing in Colorado.

Megan's favorite restaurant is Bavette's, which she describes has "great food and amazing ambiance."

Megan is from Columbia, MO and currently lives in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood. She graduated with a Bachelors from William Woods University and with a Masters in HR Management from Webster University. She currently works as a Human Resources Manager at Sidley Austin LLP.

Meet Tim Fugger, YPB Member

Tim Fugger, YPB Member

Tim's heart is purple for his father, who lost his battle to pancreatic cancer during Tim's sophomore year of high school. His loss inspired Tim to join the YPB in the fight for finding an early detection method.

According to Tim, "since my loss, I have never met a single person who had a similar story to me. It brings me great satisfaction to join a foundation and group of people that are are fighting for the same things I am."

Now, for some fun facts about Tim...

As Tim describes, "I recently finished a 3 year injury prone NFL career. I was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in 2012 and spent time with the Arizona Cardinals, as well as the New York Jets."

Tim is from Oak Brook, IL and currently lives in Chicago's Wicker Park neighborhood. He graduated from Vanderbilt University with a major in Human & Organizational Development and a minor in Corporate Strategy.

He currently works as an Account Executive at Simply Smart Technology. "We completely manage the Information Technology of small to medium size businesses headquartered in Chicago. Many of our clients have branch offices throughout the US and we even support an international office in India."

Meet Bret Keil, YPB Member

Bret Keil, YPB Member

Bret's heart is purple for his Great Aunt, who was recently diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, as well as "all those who have been or will be affected by pancreatic cancer."

Bret was introduced to the Rolfe Foundation through his former boss Christine Hanover, who serves as Treasurer on the Rolfe Foundation Board of Directors.

As Bret describes, "I was inspired to join the cause by the stories of those affected and the passion of the board members. My hope is that through our efforts and contributions to early detection research, we can give hope to those families and friends impacted by pancreatic cancer."

Now, for some fun facts about Bret...

Bret's favorite quote is: "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." - Jim Valvano

His favorite sports teams are the Chicago White Sox and Indiana Hoosiers Basketball.

When asked about an interesting hobby or passion, Bret responded "a couple of summers ago, my brother and I spent the weekends trying to play every frisbee golf course in the Chicagoland area. I'm also passionate about the history of rock music. I am a self proclaimed music expert, mainly consisting of music from the 60's through the 90's."

His favorite restaurants are Lou Malnati's for pizza and Twin Anchors for ribs.

Bret is inspired by his parents. "I learn something new from them every day, and continue to gain more and more respect for all the opportunities they've given me in life."

In the summer, his favorite activity is "any activity outside where I can pretend to be a kid again. Playing wiffle ball comes to mind."

Bret describes himself as "sarcastic" and growing up wanted to be "a comedian...that was until I realized I'm not as funny as I think I am. I am cursed by three generations of dry humor."

Bret is from Munster, IN and currently lives in Chicago's Old Town neighborhood. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Business and Master in Accounting from Indiana University. He currently works as a Portfolio Accountant at LaSalle Investment Management.

Meet Annie Betti, YPB Member

Annie Betti, YPB Member

Annie's heart is purple for cousin her Megan, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in November 2013 at the age of 24 and lost her battle in April 2014. Throughout her courageous battle, Megan remained positive and fought with bravery that inspired everyone around her. 

As Annie describes "Our family lost a part of our heart last year, but Megan's battle has taught me to be courageous, to love endlessly, and to fight for what you believe in. She left this world much too early, but her energy will live on with us forever. My heart will always remain purple in honor of Megan."

Annie's favorite memory of Megan is from early childhood. "We grew up inseparable: me, my 5 sisters, and Megan. Every New Years my aunt and uncle would have a party and at the end of the night we got to sleepover at Megan's. When everyone left we would curl up in our sleeping bags and on the couches and watch the Labyrinth. It used to scare me to death, but it was Megan's favorite movie. We would stay up all night and in the morning my parents would bring us donuts and we would all spend the day in pajamas hanging out."

Annie joined the Pancreatic Cancer YPB to honor and fight for all those who are fighting and/or who have lost the battle to pancreatic cancer.

Now, for some fun facts about Annie...

Annie's favorite quote is: "If you want something you've never had, then you've got to do something you've never done."

Her favorite sports team is the Chicago Bears, and her favorite restaurant is Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba.

Annie enjoys going to musical festivals and concerts. In the summer, her favorite activity is "going to Cubs games or anything I can do outside with friends." In the winter, Annie enjoys "staying warm - usually either on the couch watching movies or reading a book."

Growing up, Annie wanted to be a teacher. "I have always wanted to help people in some way."

Annie describes herself as "thoughtful" and has "five sisters who I'm very close with."

She is inspired by "my parents, each one of my sisters, and of course, Megan."

Annie is from Palatine, Illinois and currently lives in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood. She graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism and a minor in Business from Indiana University. She currently works as a Compensation Specialist at Aon.

Meet Lee Sanders, YPB Member

Lee Sanders, YPB Member

Lee's heart is purple for his best friend's father, who lost his battle to pancreatic cancer when they were teenagers.  "He had a larger than life personality and to see someone with his strength and energy fall ill was a testament to how terrible the desiese is. His battle has been the catalyst that has driven me to join the YPB."

Now, for some fun facts about Lee...

His sports team is The Indiana Hoosiers.

When asked about an interesting hobby or passion, Lee replied, "I love domestic travel. I'm all about the three day weekend trips to a new city."

Lee's  favorite restaurant in Chicago is Twin Anchors. "Their ribs are unparalleled. I make sure to go on my birthday every year."

Growing up, Lee wanted to be a mailman. "Not kidding....good exercise, delivering birthday cards, whistling a good tune. Seemed like a fun time."

In the summer, Lee's favorite activity is going to the Diversey Driving Range at dusk. "It's a little cooler by the lake and very calming to hit a bucket of balls. Plus it makes me think I'm better at golf than I really am."

Lee is a Chicago native and currently lives in Chicago's Lakeview neighborhood.  He graduated with a B.A. in Communications and Business from Indiana University  and now works as an Account Executive at Mintel.

Meet Katherine Dorn, YPB Member

Katherine Dorn,
YPB Member

Katherine's heart is purple for her Aunt Terri. She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in the fall of 2011 after months of doctors’ appointments, blood tests, and scans yielding no cancer results. She lost her battle on May 8, 2012.

As Katherine recalls, "Aunt Terri was truly the kindest, most gentle and loving woman I knew. She never hesitated to give to others, she always saw the best in people, and she adored her family. Everyone around Charlotte, her hometown in upstate New York, knew her through her work with Holy Cross Church as the Bombers Cheerleading coach, a volunteer position she held for 37 years. Aunt Terri was the sister my mother never had and the absolute best Auntie. Despite the distance between New York and Chicago, she didn’t miss a single life milestone from my birth to my Sweet 16 and high school graduation. She taught me what it means to be selfless, humble, and appreciative of life’s many gifts."

Shortly after her aunt's passing, Katherine and her parents stumbled across the Rolfe Foundation while walking along Lake Michigan during the 2012 Dash for Detection. Since then, Katherine and her nearest friends and family gather to celebrate her Aunt Terri's life at the annual Dash for Detection Event.

Now, for some fun facts about Katherine...

Her favorite sports team is the Penn State Nittany Lions, especially the football team and her beloved Joe Paterno. "There is nothing quite like Beaver Stadium on game day with 107,000 of my closest friends! "

When asked about an interesting hobby or passion, Katherine responded, "I love to cook. I'm an avid reader, especially of Young Adult literature because of my profession. I would love to sky dive one day!"

Katherine's favorite girls' night spot is Mercadito. "The hours fly by with great friends, tacos, and margaritas." Her favorite date night spot is Coco Pazzo Cafe. "It is intimate, romantic, and has great homemade pasta!"

As a kindergartener, Katherine remembers aspiring to be a teacher when she grew up. "I feel so lucky that 22 years later I find myself doing just that."

In the summer, Katherine's favorite activity is "attending street festivals and rooftop BBQing."

Katherine is from Long Grove, IL and currently lives in Chicago's River North neighborhood.  She graduated with a Bachelors in Secondary Education English and Mass Communications from Penn State University and a Masters of Education in Curriculum Studies and ELL from DePaul University. She currently works as a Freshman Reading and Literature/Composition Teacher at Waukegan High School (Waukegan Unit District #60 in Waukegan, IL).

Meet Hasket Morris, YPB Member

Hasket Morris,
YPB Member

Hasket's heart is purple for his dad, who was diagnosed on April 1, 2014. "His battle has drummed up a community of support I don't think he ever thought was possible. It's giving him lots of additional strength which he so desperately needs and he loves hearing news on the steps we're taking to eradicate the disease."

Hasket  found out about the Rolfe Pancreatic Cancer Foundation through a friend who grew up with young professional board member Alyssa Van Denburg. "They told me about the Dash for Detection 5K in the Spring. My dad was thrilled that I did it. That lead to me going on the benefit cruise which he also loved hearing about. There, I was approached and offered young professional board membership. The feeling of knowing we're doing things to keep others from having to experience this has been really wonderful."

Hasket is from Ferrisburgh, VT and currently lives in Chicago's East Lakeview neighborhood. He graduated with a B.A. from Columbia College Chicago. He works as an actor for various companies in the city.

Meet Davis O'Connell, YPB Member

Davis O'Connell, YPB Member

Davis's heart is purple for all those who have been and will be affected by pancreatic cancer, particularly his fellow YPB members.

Now, for some fun facts about Davis...

Davis's favorite sports team is the Chicago Blackhawks. "The early 2000's were bleak, but with two Stanley Cups in the past five years, things have been going pretty well."

Davis travels almost every week for work, but, when he isn't on the road, he enjoys playing ice hockey on a local men's league team and golf. In the summer, he tries to spend "as much time as possible on a Chicago rooftop enjoying a good beer with friends."  He also enjoys wakeboarding in the summer, skiing in the winter, and is a lover of stand-up comedy. 

As a child, Davis aspired to be an astronomer. While he bailed on this idea in pursuit of a consulting career, he still enjoys reading articles and books on the subject. 

Davis is from Wilmette, IL and currently lives in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood.  He graduated with a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering and works as a consultant in Accenture's Smart Grid Services practice.

Meet Katie Brungardt, YPB Member

Katie Brungardt, YPB Member

Katie’s heart is purple for her step-dad, Craig, who was diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer in April of 2013—about two months before Katie graduated from college. Craig fought his battle for nearly a year, nine months longer than his prognosis.  “His last year on earth was one well lived.  We traveled, saw family, ate good food and spent time making memories as a family.”

“Craig came into my life when I was just 18 months old. He has been a huge part of my life, he was my biggest supporter, my cheerleader and the rock of our family. He put me through school, taught me how to drive a car, and showered me, my mom, and two sisters with love and laughter. He was such a prankster and had the best laugh out of anyone I knew.  I got involved with the Rolfe Foundation through Jim Rolfe who reached out to me when he learned that pancreatic cancer had touched my life in a similar fashion to his own.”

Now, for some fun facts about Katie…

Her favorite quote is: "Live in the moment."

Katie is a “huge college basketball fan,” and her favorite teams are the KU Jaywhawks and Saint Louis University Billikens.  She is also roots for the Kansas City Chiefs and the St. Louis Cardinals.

When asked about an interesting hobby or passion, Katie replied, “I love traveling! I studied in Madrid, Spain for a semester and did an emerging market field study in Panama my senior year of college. I never miss an opportunity to go some place new.”

Katie describes herself as “optimistic,” and her hobbies include reading, long distance running and any kind of outdoor activity. As Katie admits, “I also have a slight obsession with dogs, Disney movies and Christmas.”

When asked about her favorite restaurant, Katie responded, " Nookies. I love breakfast food. A lot.”

Katie is inspired by  all four of her parents. “Being part of a blended family, I am fortunate to have had great relationships with my mom, dad, step-mom and of course my amazing step-dad. Each one of them has taught me so much, and they are all four so different—I feel like I am a more well-rounded individual because of the influence each one of them has had on my life.”

Katie’s favorite summer activities are “Running and biking—especially down the lakefront.”  During the winter, Katie enjoys “ drinking hot chocolate. Skiing is fun too, but I'm better at the former.”

Katie is from Shawnee, KS and currently lives in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. She graduated with a B.S. in Business Administration from Saint Louis University and currently works as a  Credit Analyst for The Private Bank.

Meet Luke Sullivan, YPB Member

Luke Sullivan, YPB Member

Luke's heart is purple for his grandmother, Ruth Dzikonski, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in October 2013.  "Her fight has inspired me to work so that nobody else has to experience what she is going through. She has been such an amazing influence on my life and I hope to honor her through my involvement with the foundation."

When asked about his favorite memory of his grandmother, Luke responded, "I will always cherish all the fun times visiting my grandmother during Christmases when I was growing up."

Now, for some fun facts about Luke...

His favorite quote is: "Live in the moment."

Born and raised in Texas, Luke's favorite sports team is the Dallas Cowboys.

Luke describes himself as "driven" and enjoys reading and being active.

When asked about his favorite restaurant, Luke responded, "There are so many great restaurants that it's hard to pick just one. Ann Sather is one of my favorites- it's hard to beat the cinnamon rolls and I have lots of good memories there."

Luke is inspired by "anybody who succeeds when the odds are against them."

As a child, Luke wanted to grow up to become a firefighter.

In the summer, Luke's favorite activity is playing beach volleyball.  During the winter, you can find Luke "wishing I was back home in Texas where it's warmer."

Luke is from Carrollton, TX and currently lives in Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood. He graduated with a B.A. in Biochemistry from Kenyon College and works as a researcher at The ABIS Group, a competitive intelligence and health care information company.

Meet Meredith Brown, YPB Member

Meredith Brown, YPB Member

Meredith's heart is purple for her grandmother, Ann Brown, who passed away from pancreatic cancer while Meredith was in high school.  As Meredith remembers, "She was kind, generous, and cared deeply about her family. She taught me many things including how to sew and how to play the sport of curling. She has been an inspiration for me that you can do anything you set your mind to and that it is possible to do it all as long as you find the balance in things and have a positive attitude."

According to Meredith, "It is for her and the rest of my family that I felt compelled to join the YPB and help to raise awareness and support of early detection so that someday no one else will have to go through the pain of losing someone to pancreatic cancer."

Now, for some fun facts about Meredith...

Her favorite quote is: "Choose to be happy."

Meredith's favorite sports team is the University of Kentucky Wildcats Basketball Team.  She started out her college career at UK and still bleeds blue!

When asked about an interesting hobby or passion, Meredith shared, "I have been participating in the sport of curling since I could walk. When I was younger I even went to the JR Nationals representing Team Illinois twice!"

She is inspired by her parents Ken and Amy.  "They inspire me everyday to be the best person I can be, to love my family, and to live every moment to the fullest."

Meredith currently lives in her hometown of Deerfield, IL.  She graduated with a B.A. in English from Loyola Univeristy of Chicago and works as a teaching assistant at a local elementary school in the special education department. She is currently in the process of applying to go back to school to get her masters degree and teaching certification.

Meet Storm Saponaro, YPB Member

Storm Saponaro, YPB Member

Storm's heart is purple for his father, Chuck Saponaro, who lost his battle to pancreatic cancer 5 years ago this May.  "My Dad still is my role model and he is the reason that I joined the YPB. Hopefully we can work towards a cure so others do not have to go through what our family has endured."

Now, for some fun facts about Storm...

His favorite quote is:  "Always play like there is one minute left."

When asked about his favorite sports team, Storm replied, "I root for all of the Chicago Teams."

He enjoys volunteering.

Storm's favorite restaurant in Chicago is Sapori, an Italian restaurant in Lincoln Park.

He is inspired by his Mom and Dad.

Growing up, Storm wanted to be, "A business man."

In the summer, Storm's favorite activity is "Going to the Cubs game with my brother and hanging outside with friends."  During the winter, "Marathoning a TV show with friends or reading a great book on my couch!"

Storm is a Chicago native and currently lives in Chicago's Ravenswood Manor neighborhood.  He graduated with a B.S. in Business and Enterprise Management from Wake Forest University Schools of Business and now works as a Sales Operations Manager for energy.me. Storm describes himself as outgoing, and he has a younger brother named Jett.

Meet Jacob Murphy, YPB Member

Jacob Murphy, YPB Member

Jacob's heart is purple for his grandmother, Perle Cole, who taught him all the worthwhile things he knows about loving life.  "She gave me a ring while she was quite sick, and I have yet to take off to this day."

During her illness, Jacob remembers his grandmother buying a small rotisserie oven for her bedroom to cook chicken.  According to Jacob, "It wasn’t that she had a particular thing for chicken (she actually didn't like to cook too much), but she just saw the oven on an infomercial, observed she’d never bought anything from an infomercial, and decided that that was something she Just Had To Do – for fun.  She didn’t want to be (and wasn’t) ruled by her illness. She never stopped finding joy in the little things, and thought it would be a laugh to cook some chickens, because hey – why not?"

Now, for some fun facts about Jacob...

Jacob's favorite quote is:  "This makes no sense, and so do I." - Daffy Duck

When asked about his favorite sports team, Jacob replied, "If the Bulls and the Bears could somehow join forces, that... would be awesome."

Currently, one of Jacob's interesting hobbies is "Filling out Facebook surveys. They're always very interesting."

Jacob has several favorite restaurants in Chicago.  "Longman & Eagle, Violet Hour, Big Star, Elizabeth, Billy Sunday, Slurping Turtle, Sunda Fountainhead, Girl & the Goat ... I'm a sucker for food. And drinks."

Jacob is inspired by "My mother. My father. Edward Albee. The Beatles. Bob Dylan. John Steinbeck. Superman. Anyone who gets out of bed in the morning and accomplishes a good day’s work."

When asked what he aspired to be as a child, Jacob responded, "It was a tossup between Michael Jordan and Batman... I still aspire to be Batman."

Jacob's favorite summer activities are "Grilling burgers on a deck with good friends and cold beer."  As for his favorite winter activities, "Shoveling snow. Shivering. Layering."

Jacob is a Chicago native and currently lives in Chicago's Lincoln Square neighborhood.  He graduated with a BFA in Theater and Film from Tisch School of the Arts at NYU.  He is an actor, writer, and man about town with a particular interest in bookstores and local coffee shops.

Meet Joe Meginnes, YPB Member

Joe Meginnes, YPB Member

Joe's heart is purple for his former roommate's grandfather, his friend's mother, and all those who have been and will be affected by this disease, particularly his fellow YPB members. 

Some fun facts about Joe...

His favorite sports teams are Notre Dame football and the Chicago Cubs. "I’ve had a rocky existence."

The Publican is Joe's favorite restaurant in Chicago. "You can't beat the menu, beer list, and atmosphere."

People who give of themselves without any promise of future return inspire Joe.

As a child, he wanted to be a lawyer like his father; at various stages, he also wanted to be the GM of the Cubs and Steve McQueen.

In the summer, Joe loves live music outdoors. In the winter, he likes holing up at a dive bar in the neighborhood with a bunch of friends and making each other laugh.

"Genuine" is one word that describes him.

Joe is an attorney and lives in Chicago's Bucktown neighborhood. He graduated from the University of Notre Dame and is from Peoria, IL.