Meet Jay Steiner. Jay is a cancer survivor. Jay is also a superhero. It takes a superhero to beat cancer and then to support a family member who is also battling cancer. Below, in question 8, you’ll find Jay’s Tips on being a superhero for your loved one who may be battling cancer.
1. You are a KU Fan – predict their record for this year.
Jay: Crimson & Blue all the way through. 5-7 in football. 33-3 in basketball.
2. What is the food that you are best at making?
Jay: Waffles!
3. If moon travel becomes available in the next 10 years, are you going?
Jay: Too many exciting things to see here (on Earth) first.
4. If you could throw a party for your donors with an unlimited budget, where would it be and what two bands would play?
Jay: At a park in Lake Tahoe. I’d probably have Jack Johnson open for Dave Matthews
4. Why did you want to join the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society team?
Jay: I’m a survivor of Pediatric A.L.L. (acute lymphoblastic leukemia) so finding cures for Leukemia has always been at the forefront of my mind. I’m fortunate to work for an organization who’s primary objective is so aligned with my personal objectives.
5. Your background is in advertising. What is your all-time favorite ad or ad campaign for any company?
Jay: Nike’s “Bo Knows!”
6. What is your favorite social media platform?
Jay: I enjoy FB and Instagram. There is not enough hours in the day to keep up with Twitter.
7. How is the LLS making it easier for people to get involved in the fight against cancer?
Jay: Although we are making tremendous progress in the fight against Leukemia and other forms of blood cancers, there is still so much that needs to be done. Unfortunately, we lose someone every 10 minutes to a blood cancer. LLS has created a number of events such as Light The Night where companies as well as friends and family can come together and raise funds to support our efforts while commemorating those that have been touched by cancer.
8. What can someone do right now to help a family who is battling cancer?
Jay: Show their support. Lend an ear. Go for coffee. Prepare a meal. Mow their lawn. Help with Childcare. The possibilities are endless. If possible, financially support organizations such as LLS. The funds that we raise help support patients and families that are going through a battle. We offer immediate financial aid as well as a co-pay assistance program to help out with medical bills. We also fund a number of research programs that are bringing hope and cures to patients who are battling a form of blood cancer. [Jason’s note: When Cells for Cells makes a donation to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, we have requested that those monies go directly to the co-pay assistance and patient aid funds.]
9. If someone can not donate money, what are some tips that you share for still making a difference?
Jay: I encourage everyone to be there physically and emotionally for a friend or family member that is going through a cancer battle. Each situation is unique and it is critical for the patient to have a strong support system.
10. When and where is the Light The Night event this year?
Jay: The Kansas City Light The Night Walk will take place on September 20th, at Cleveland Chiropractic College in Overland Park. The fun starts at 6:00 and the walk will commence near dusk. Walkers will carry illuminated lanterns to show their support – white for patients and survivors, red for supporters and gold for those walking in memory of a loved one. [The most up-to-date information is at the Light The Night Kansas City on Facebook.]
11. What is your favorite outdoor activity?
Jay: I’m still a kid at heart so I love to be on a bike – either a mountain bike, road bike or triathlon bike!
12. What is your favorite planet?
Jay: This one! There are a lot of cool planets but I can’t imagine a place that has more natural beauty and better creatures!
13. What animal do you fear most?
Jay: I’m not a fan of snakes.
14. What animal do you love most?
Jay: Dogs truly are man’s best friend.
15. What Disney character best matches you as a person?
Jay: Mufasa from the Lion King as I am always striving to lead by example for my kids.
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If you have interest in supporting the LLS through a donations or by participating in one of the many LLS events, Jay can be reached at the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society office in Shawnee Mission, Kansas at 913-262-1515
Additional Information
Jay and Monica Steiner: Champions for Life on 435 Magazine
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