Supporting cancer awareness and research

Robb Soles, KPMG Advisory partner in Chicago and Board Chair for the American Cancer Society (ACS) Illinois chapter, understands all too well how cancer affects not only those diagnosed, but those who love them. He experienced cancer loss from an early age, losing both grandmothers to the disease. He lost his paternal grandmother when he was a young boy. “Back in the day, there wasn’t the same access to treatment in many local communities. My mom would take off work to drive my grandmother 12 hours round trip for her treatment,” Soles shared. In retrospect, he recognizes the pressure put on his mother to get her to her treatment and is thankful that the ACS now offers the Road to Recovery program which provides transportation to and from treatment for people with cancer who don’t have a ride or are unable to drive themselves.

Soles’ maternal grandmother was diagnosed with brain cancer when he was in college and he took on the role of driving her to treatments. “We were very close and this was an opportunity to spend quality time with her. I remember fondly our talks about important things – like life lessons. I cherished those times in the car,” he said.

A decade ago Soles’ father was diagnosed with colon cancer, which was detected through early screening. “Early detection saved my dad’s life and now 10 years later, he’s healthy and cancer free,” he added.

“Cancer has touched so many in my life, from family members and close friends to work colleagues, and those experiences have inspired me to serve as the new Community Impact Network Leader for the American Cancer Society at KPMG,” said Soles. “I believe the best way to make an impact is to give back through supporting American Cancer Society initiatives and research, helping those affected live longer and better lives. That’s why during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we are encouraging people to join a team, buy a mask, and support cancer research to make an impact.”

Get One, Give One (GOGO) Mask Campaign

For every “HOPE” mask purchased during October, one FDA-approved disposable paper mask will be given to a cancer patient staying in an ACS Hope Lodge. Funds raised will support breast cancer research. Learn more about the campaign and order your masks through October 31.

KPMG and ACS

KPMG is proud to support the American Cancer Society as a Partner Against Cancer, promoting healthy living, advancing cancer research and helping those affected by this disease. KPMG leaders are also active in six CEOs Against Cancer networks across the country. This powerful network includes the most prominent names in business today who collaborate to promote a culture of health in our workplaces and in our communities. Together, with the American Cancer Society, network members leverage their collective knowledge, influence, and resources to help change the course of cancer.

KPMG has contributed close to $3 million to the American Cancer Society through firm sponsorships, fundraising and employee giving over the last five years. Additionally, over 3,100 KPMG employees have donated more than 4,400 service volunteer hours across over 30 KPMG offices in the U.S.

More ways to support cancer research:

In memoriam

Kevin Sheehan, KPMG Advisory partner and first Community Impact Network Leader for the American Cancer Society at KPMG, lost his five-year battle with cancer in August. In his memory, we are pleased to announce the Kevin Sheehan Pay It Forward Award which will honor the impact Kevin made in the community. To donate to cancer research in Kevin’s name, visit this page.

ResearcHERS

Women bring diverse and unique perspectives to cancer research, making invaluable contributions. However, women are continuously underrepresented in research leadership. ResearcHERS is a movement to raise funds to directly support women cancer researchers. Learn more about how you can support the ResearcHERS program.

Making strides

Although the pandemic has changed breast cancer walks planned for this year, ACS continues to fight back boldly and relentlessly against breast cancer through Making Strides Against Cancer. Start or join an event in your area.