Chuck Leto, Business Owner & Marketer, Makes Gift to the MMRF in His Will and Last Testament

Multiple myeloma patient Chuck Leto, a former business owner and marketer for 22 years, was diagnosed in 2007 with multiple  myeloma. Chuck is giving back to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (MMRF) through a gift in his will and last testament because he believes in our approach and the work we are doing to accelerate a cure for multiple myeloma patients.

“If you really appreciate the MMRF, how can you not include them in your legacy planning?” Chuck says. “It’s the ULTIMATE gift for the greater good!”

In 2011 Chuck underwent a stem-cell procedure and went into remission. Unfortunately, after 30 months he relapsed. In 2014 his immune system became compromised from the disease and it brought on the shingles. Over the next four years, he has coped with a painful chronic condition that resulted in nerve damage to his arm and hand. Chuck is currently on trial medications that are working, and he is in remission.

“Kathy Giusti is my American hero!” Chuck says. “If this was 1996, I may not be here. But with her leadership, she has transformed a political health platform and in the process INVIGORATED the possibilities for all MM patients to revel.”

Although Chuck has gone through a lot since his diagnosis of multiple myeloma, he believes it is essential to keep a “cheerful” disposition!

“I still have so much to be grateful for.” Chuck says. “I’ve been married for 26 years to my best friend Miriam, and I have an incredible son, Alexander, who is a scholarship athlete at Maryland University. I listen to two songs often to keep my spirits high and for inspiration: Lady Gaga’s hit ‘Till It Happens to You’ and Barry Manilow’s ‘I Made It Through the Rain.’

“My hope is that one day, decades from now, any cancer diagnosis will be less stressful and fearful and that one can be full of hope for a long survival!” Chuck says. “My hope will become a reality thanks to the MMRF who continue to provide innovative precision medicine to patients through their efforts in genomic and immunotherapy research.

“The MMRF’s dedication has created a seismic improvement in the field of cancer research and development. While other cancer platforms are improving, the so-called X-factor is Kathy Giusti. Her skills and leadership have transformed the medical field! The MMRF is relentlessly pursuing a smarter, faster cure for every patient.”