RSM US LLP (RSM), the nation’s leading provider of audit, tax and consulting services focused on the middle market, supported the fight against blood cancer during the firm’s annual Volunteer Week in late July. RSM invited Gift of Life Marrow Registry to discuss our lifesaving mission with more than 400 of RSM’s people, while offering them an opportunity join the registry.

The main theme of the session—addressing healthcare disparities—could not have been more timely or important. Florence Holland, Ph.D., director of culture diversity and inclusion with RSM, welcomed the group and highlighted challenges faced by ethnic minority groups when it comes to preventable and treatable conditions.

“Health equity is achieved when every person has the opportunity to attain his or her full health potential and no one is disadvantaged,” said Dr. Holland. 

Evie Goldfine, a long-time RSM client, stem cell transplant recipient and Gift of Life supporter, participated in the conversation by sharing her personal journey and dedicated efforts to help diversify the registry. 
Gift of Life’s Director of Organizational Development Marti Freund then presented the story of how the organization was uniquely founded to combat the lack of diversity in the worldwide registries, and its commitment to increase representation so that everyone can have equitable treatment. The key takeaway being, that “everyone deserves a second chance at life and each of us has the power within to cure blood cancer.” 

Attending staff members were particularly moved by an emotional video showing the first-time meeting between Gift of Life blood stem cell donor Frank Abbott and his transplant recipient Rashawn Coleman-Walker, both African Americans. Following the presentation, employees were quick to visit the dedicated RSM “donor circle” on the Gift of Life website to request swab kits and make a difference in the lives of people battling a blood disease. 

Thank you, RSM, for caring enough to join the registry and support patients battling blood cancer.