Jennifer Campbell, Deceased Patient’s Wife
Torrance Campbell’s wife, Jennifer learned about the MMRF through her husband. He had met Kathy Giusti sometime before the first MMRF Chicago 5K Walk/Run in 2001. At the very first race Torrance participated with his colleague and friend from Baxter Credit Union (BCU).
Torrance Campbell (TC) was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 1997. He was just 38 years old. Like so many others, the colleagues didn’t know very much about multiple myeloma when they first heard the news. Nonetheless, BCU employees were determined to do their part to contribute to a cure. They formed the “BCU Team”. Shortly after Torrance’s passing in 2005, another multiple myeloma patient and close friend of BCU suggested “Spirit of Hope”. So, beginning in 2006, the BCU Team officially became “TC’s Spirit of Hope” to honor his memory. The team’s name embodies Torrance’s attitude in all things hopeful.
Whether in good health or bad, Torrance showed courage, empathy, deep faith, and an immense passion for life. He remained positive and certain that one day a cure would be found for multiple myeloma, and only humbly hoped it wouldn’t be too late for him.
“Our family has had to continue without Torrance’s daily presence. However, the foundation of faith, love and support he gave us will always keep him in our hearts,” said Jennifer Campbell.
Torrance’s “spirit of hope” and perseverance in light of obstacles he faced in his life was the start of the MMRF Spirit of Hope Award. Today, this award is presented to a person or team who inspires hope and shows extraordinary commitment to the MMRF. The MMRF has named over 300 Spirit of Hope Award Honorees since 2007 when the award was created in Torrance’s honor.
