Kaufman Rossin in the Community: Margaux’s Miracle Foundation

Robert A. Stone of Kaufman Rossin talks about his involvement in the community

Which organization are you involved in and what is its mission?

I’m involved with Margaux’s Miracle Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to finding a cure for Ewing’s sarcoma and other childhood diseases.  Margaux Grossman was diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma, a very rare type of bone cancer that usually affects children and teenagers. After she passed away from the cancer at the age of 15, her friends created this organization to raise money and fund full-time research fellows at Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City.

 Tell us about your role with the organization.

I sit on the board of directors of Margaux’s Miracle Foundation. I strive to build awareness of the organization and help raise funds to bring it closer to achieving its goals. Through various research efforts at Memorial-Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and clinical trials around the world, we’re making advancements and getting closer to finding a cure for Ewing’s sarcoma.

Rockie Ruttenberg, the executive director of the foundation and Margaux’s aunt, says “I never thought I would see us make so many strides in my lifetime. We’re making great progress, and the new fellows we get each year have been so good and continue trying to determine where the cancer begins and how to treat it effectively.”

As part of raising awareness, Rockie urges parents to be proactive when their children experience pain. “If you have a child who complains of pain and it won’t go away, please go to a doctor and get it resolved,” Rockie says. “Check it out and keep checking it out.”

 What inspired you to coordinate a Jeans Day for Margaux’s Miracle Foundation?

Giving back to the community is important to me, and Kaufman Rossin’s Jeans Day initiative is a great way to raise funds for this incredible foundation. The firm is matching employee donations, and I’m matching the combined total of donations. Through our efforts, we can continue supporting the foundation’s research projects and hopefully find a cure to childhood diseases.

What is your advice for others who are thinking about getting involved in the community?

Volunteering your expertise and giving back to the community are some of the most fulfilling things a person can do. Think about causes you would like to advance – from finding a cure to childhood cancers to feeding the homeless – and find out how you can donate your time and knowledge to spur positive change.