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Meet team “Richard’s Rangers” in honor of Richard A. Englander MMRF 2024 Walk/Run: Philadelphia Spirit of Hope Honoree

How did you get involved with the MMRF?

Our “Richard’s Rangers” team was formed by our family for the MMRF Race for Research in Philadelphia in 2010 as a way to honor our husband, father, and grandfather, Richard A. Englander and fundraise and spread awareness for the disease. Richard was a patient of Dr. Edward Stadtmauer at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania. He had told Richard about the wonderful work of the MMRF to educate patients and caregivers and to fund important research to find a cure. We have been supporting the MMRF ever since!

Why did you choose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run?

We first chose to participate in the MMRF Walk/Run because it was a way that the three generations of our family (even very young children) could come together to do something to support Richard as he was battling multiple myeloma. His story is nothing short of miraculous. He was diagnosed in 1988, had a stem cell harvest in 1997 and transplant in 2000, and was given several novel treatments along the way. He was able to walk with us in 2010 and for several years following until he passed away in 2016. The MMRF’s help in developing new ways to fight myeloma, without a doubt, gave Richard a chance to live for over 20 years following his diagnosis.

The Spirit of Hope is given to “individuals/groups who inspire hope and show extraordinary commitment to the MMRF.” What does being given the award mean to you?

It is an honor for Richard’s Rangers to be recognized with this award. We are indebted to the MMRF for the groundbreaking research that continues to this day to treat multiple myeloma to allow future generations of patients to live their lives to the fullest as Richard did. He was an inspiration to us, never wavering in his desire to beat his cancer and to give others hope.

How have you found perseverance in light of obstacles? Please share any stories that have given you strength.

Since Richard’s death in 2016, we have all tried to honor him by living our lives like he did. Richard was incredibly loving and was adored by all who met him. He trusted in God and his doctors and endured many years of treatment with grace and dignity.

Do you have a favorite mantra, quote, or lyric that gives you strength? Anything to add?

We are looking forward to having our whole family together again in Philadelphia this October to walk in Richard’s memory and to support the MMRF!

The Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation is delighted to recognize Richard’s Rangers as the MMRF Spirit of Hope Honoree at the 2024 MMRF Team for Cures: Philadelphia Walk/Run.

This award is presented at every Walk/Run to a patient, caregiver, or family who inspires hope through their resilience, perseverance, and dedication to the MMRF and its mission.