Leading in philanthropy by example
City of Hope advocate Joan Berlin Apel not only survived cancer, but also champions research that may one day cure the disease.
Her generosity may bring that day closer to reality.
Berlin Apel recently made an unrestricted $500,000 gift to City of Hope. In addition, she previously donated $100,000 to support City of Hope’s breast cancer research, treatment and education efforts.
photo: COURTESY OF THE APEL FAMILYJoan Berlin Apel and her husband, Marty
Her reasoning is simple: “I want to help other people lead healthier lives, and City of Hope is doing a wonderful job at trying to find real cures for cancer,” she said.
Both Berlin Apel and her husband, Marty Apel, are longtime supporters of the institution. Berlin Apel was introduced to the cancer center a decade ago when a professional colleague invited her to attend a board of governors meeting. She immediately was drawn to the philosophy of the medical center and its emphasis on
research.
Although Berlin Apel already was supporting two other hospitals at the time, she felt compelled to begin assisting City of Hope. “I really like how the institution operates — how it accepts many patients with cancer at advanced stages, and provides renewed hope for such people,” she said.
On a recent visit to campus, Berlin Apel learned for herself about services provided at the Rita Cooper Finkel and J. William Finkel Women’s Health Center, from screenings to counseling for women. The visit helped her better understand how her contribution will impact the lives of women undergoing treatment. “I know how devastating breast cancer can be firsthand,” she said. “I knew that if I wanted to impact how quickly research in this area would progress, I had to get involved.”
The altruistic couple has been married for three years and resides in Los Angeles. Their family includes three children, Tracy, Greg and Michelle, and two grandchildren, Westly and Whitney.