For Jillian Giuffre, her belief in the power of breast cancer research came after a tragic loss. Her best friend’s mother died of the disease, after living with breast cancer for years.
“She was a second mother to me,” Giuffre said. “The day she passed away I told myself I would do anything I could to make sure no one else I love suffers as much as she did.”
Giuffre, a digital marketing specialist at Bay Ridge Toyota, decided to turn to her colleagues for help. Together they organized a month-long event in October to benefit BCRF. The Brooklyn-based car dealership donated $25 to BCRF for any customer who scheduled a test drive and $200 was donated for anyone who purchased a vehicle.
“A lot of people would love to help, but economically can’t. So at Bay Ridge Toyota we decided to donate in their name,” Giuffre said.
The car dealership’s response was astounding. They raised $5,000 for BCRF.
“Every employee knew someone personally or heard of someone going through the hardships of breast cancer. This pushed them to want to help and make a difference.”
The local community was also touched by the fundraiser.
“We found out a woman who called and scheduled a test drive had lost her mother to breast cancer. The test drive wasn’t about the car, but about the cause behind it.”
Given the success of their fundraiser, Bay Ridge Toyota is looking forward to future events to benefit BCRF.
For Giuffre, advancing breast cancer research is another way to honor the legacy of a woman who inspired her.
“My best friend’s mom was one of the best people I have ever known. Her giving personality made me want to be just like her – to give back and be positive.”
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