Leadership in Service Award

Linda Rothstein-Sosnick has inspired fellow patients for the past 12 years by initiating and leading a New Jersey Support Group.  As the worldwide health crisis hit, Linda pivoted to the virtual platform for this group, continuing to share her knowledge and experience to benefit others. Attendance at this group continues to expand as Linda continues to set an example of giving back to her fellow patients.

For the past decade, Stephanie Hamm has led, organized and directed the AAMDSIF’s 5K Run/Walks in Houston and Los Angeles to promote awareness about bone marrow failure diseases and also raise much-needed funds to support patients and families who need our support.  Her leadership in service has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars to also help fund AAMDSIF programs and research to find a cure.  AAMDSIF is indebted to Stephanie for her dedication and service.   

John Huber was the Executive Director of AAMDS International Foundation from 2006 - 2016. During his tenure, John led a series of strategic plans to more effectively support bone marrow failure patients and also drive research to find a cure.  Through John’s leadership, the Foundation forged the innovative MDS Clinical Research Consortium, an innovative collaboration among exceptional clinical researchers at six of the nation’s leading academic medical institutions and a game-changing project which aligned with the strategic goals and direction of AAMDSIF.  John also led the creation of the MDS Alliance, a strategic partnership among global MDS patient advocacy organizations and a new focus on educating health care professionals with Scientific Symposiums.  Throughout John’s service to bone marrow failure patients, AAMDSIF transformed from a rurally based to a centrally located, deeper partner with NIH and the hematology/oncology professionals.  The Foundation is deeply indebted to John for his leadership and service to the Foundation.

Since 1997, Tony has served on the AAMDSIF Board of Directors, bringing his professional expertise from the financial and investment world to the organization.  But it was his personal experience as the parent of a young daughter with aplastic anemia that cemented Tony’s and his wife, Briget’s, commitment to helping other patients and families. Rachel, now an adult, was successfully treated with ATG and has been medication free for over a decade. Tony’s involvement has grown from his early work with the AAMDSIF’s Earl J. Goldberg Chapter in Chicago in the 1990s, where his family lived when Rachel was diagnosed. He now serves as Treasurer on AAMDSIF’s Board. Tony’s leadership has contributed to the long-term financial strength of the organization and allowed for its growth to serve more patients and families with more programs. He and Briget have also matched his service to the organization with their philanthropic leadership, giving generously over the years. Now living in Westport, CT, AAMDSIF is pleased to recognize Tony Sanfilippo for his years of service in this way.