Celebrate RIS’s Named Fund Honorees. You will also see their stories throughout July in Rein in Sarcoma’s social media and highlighted on the Named Funds page of our website. RIS Named Funds help sustain and support Rein in Sarcoma’s mission and help “Increase awareness. Increase survivors.”
Richard Berqual
Richard found a small, pea-sized lump on his arm that was diagnosed as a blood clot. Eventually, the lump increased in size and he had surgery to remove it. The tissue was tested, and he was diagnosed with leiomyosarcoma and the cancer had spread. On July 10, 2011, Richard passed away at home surrounded by those he loved.
Story/donate: https://www.reininsarcoma.org/sarcoma-story-richard-berqual/
Kevin O’Keefe
Kevin was uncertain as to when his cancer appeared as he experienced cramping in his thigh for many years. Finally in 2002, a biopsy confirmed a diagnosis of synovial sarcoma. Following his initial treatment, he had a long remission, but the cancer returned – a small tumor appeared on his right lung. Kevin passed away on January 22, 2019.
Story/donate: https://www.reininsarcoma.org/sarcoma-story-kevin-okeefe/
John Shirk
John’s diagnosis of synovial sarcoma came in June 2009 after two years of missed diagnoses. John had surgeries, radiation, and chemotherapy, but none of it helped. In July 2015, with family surrounding him, John died.
Story/donate: https://www.reininsarcoma.org/sarcoma-story-john-shirk/