Mesothelioma Survivor Erwin Bergquist Donates $150,000 To PHLBI Research Efforts
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| Erwin Bergquist |
When Erwin Bergquist, a three-year mesothelioma survivor and patient of Dr. Robert Cameron, came in for his regular check-up in May, 2008, he handed Dr. Cameron a check without saying a word. The check was for $150,000.00 — the largest single gift from a patient in the history of PHLBI.
The money was earmarked for Dr. Cameron’s IMIS research study, a PHLBI project that will create the world’s first online database of medical records for people with asbestos-related diseases.”
The database will allow researchers to examine anonymous medical records, spot trends, and develop research/prevention strategies based on a large amount of real-world medical data. “This is the first project of its kind for asbestos-related diseases,” says Dr. Cameron, “and Erwin’s donation puts us well over half-way to paying for the entire project, which will cost $250,000. We all owe him a debt of gratitude for this generous gift.”
Erwin gives back in so many ways. On his most recent visit to Dr. Cameron in mid-November, 2008, he was leaving the clinic when PHLBI Executive Director Amy Sriberg took him aside and asked a favor: There was a newly diagnosed gentleman in the clinic, waiting to meet with Dr. Cameron. He was clearly overwhelmed by his mesothelioma diagnosis and needed some help. Would Erwin mind taking a moment to speak with this man?
Without hesitation, Erwin headed straight for the treatment room and spoke to the patient until Dr. Cameron arrived. Email addresses and phone numbers were exchanged. Erwin’s wife, Jan, waited patiently in the clinic lobby, fully aware of the impact of just one conversation with Erwin.
Erwin Bergquist’s generosity extends far beyond his extraordinary donation. His kindness, compassion, and positive energy are gifts he shares with everyone fortunate enough to meet him.
November 25, 2008