Dr. Pascal J. Goldschmidt is not only the dean of the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine, he’s also an avid cyclist.
When I say “avid,” I mean his idea of a good time is 100 miles in the saddle – taking in the South Florida scenery.
So it seems only natural that he would use his passion for cycling to help support research into another passion – eradicating cancer.
Goldschmidt will be pedaling for a cure in the sixth Dolphins Cancer Challenge, a major fund-raising effort for cancer research launched by the Miami Dolphins and Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of the University of Miami Health System (UHealth).
“It is absolutely critical, Jim,” Goldschmidt told me on a recent show. “We have made extraordinary progress in cancer, but we need to make a lot of progress in a lot of cancers still.”
One way Sylvester is continuing to make progress against cancer is through what it calls “precision medicine.” Here, researchers try to identify a particular cancer’s Achilles’ Heel and exploit it at the molecular level. The goal is to destroy the cancer without hurting the patient.
Sylvester is one of only three facilities in Florida recognized as a Cancer Center of Excellence by the state government.
Goldschmidt said 100% – that’s right, 100% – of the money raised through the Dolphins Cancer Challenge goes to cancer research at Sylvester.
“The Dolphins is a wonderful organization. The CEO and everybody are doing a fabulous job and are taking care of the entire cost. To all of the players, administrators, and leaders of the Dolphins, I really salute you for the work that you do. This is making a huge difference in cancer,” Goldschmidt said.
Since the event was started five years ago, it has raised more than $11 million for cancer research.
And it creates a great sense of community here in South Florida.
“This event is about camaraderie. It’s about serving our community and making sure we get together to create a top place for the treatment of cancer in South Florida,” Goldschmidt said.
Folks, this is your chance to make a real difference in the battle against this dread disease. Whether you’re athletic or not, there’s a place for you. Visit http://dolphinscancerchallenge.com or http://sylvester.org for details.
Don’t wait. The event is this Saturday, Feb. 20.
Click here to listen to the full interview with Dr. Pascal J. Goldschmidt about the Dolphins Cancer Challenge 2016.
