Bucci Family Supports Breast Cancer Research at Wilmot Cancer Institute
A $1 million commitment from Joseph G. and Elaine Bucci of Piffard, Livingston County, will support breast cancer research at UR Medicine’s Wilmot Cancer Institute. The Bucci Family Breast Cancer Research Fund was created in honor of their many friends and family from Retsof, York and Geneseo who have faced cancer.
“We are deeply grateful for the Bucci family’s commitment to enhance our clinical and translational research program in breast cancer,” said Jonathan W. Friedberg, M.D., M.M.Sc., director of Wilmot Cancer Institute. “Through their generosity, our patients will benefit from new insights and approaches to care that will result from stronger collaboration between our Comprehensive Breast Care at Pluta and our solid-tumor research program.”
Joseph G. and Elaine Bucci have long been supporters of Wilmot Cancer Institute. Joseph Bucci is the co-founder and co-CEO of American Rock Salt Co., the world’s second-largest salt mine. He is a former history and social studies teacher, as well as a high school football coach. Elaine Bucci, a former sixth-grade teacher, is involved with many community activities in Livingston County.
“Because of research, breast cancer care has improved so much and the effects of chemotherapy and radiation have become less debilitating,” Elaine Bucci said. “In order for treatments to continue improving, we need to support research. My hope is that a cure is found through continued research before my granddaughter Olivia grows up.”
The Buccis have seen loved ones from multiple generations of their family undergo treatment for cancer. At one point, four members of their family were being treated for breast cancer at the same time, including daughter-in-law Meghan Bucci. The mother of two young children, Meghan was diagnosed in 2014 at age 37. “By giving locally, we can have a greater impact on breast cancer care and research,” said Meghan, who is now doing well.
“The Bucci family’s generosity will enable us to strengthen cancer care in the Finger Lakes region through rigorous clinical and translational research,” said Mark B. Taubman, CEO of the University of Rochester Medical Center and UR Medicine and dean of the School of Medicine and Dentistry. “We are grateful for their investment in our breast cancer programs and in the physicians and scientists who seek to advance the understanding and treatment of this disease.”
“Philanthropic support for breast cancer research is critical at a time when federal funding for cancer research has diminished,” said David C. Linehan, M.D., co-director and director of clinical operations at Wilmot Cancer Institute. “This generous commitment from the Bucci family will guarantee that women in our region will benefit from access to state-of-the-art clinical and scientific research here at the Wilmot Cancer Institute. Gifts like this can provide the spark that generates significant advances that improve outcomes and directly impact the lives of our patients.”
UR Medicine’s Wilmot Cancer Institute is the Finger Lakes region’s leader for cancer care and research. As a component of Strong Memorial Hospital, Wilmot Cancer Institute provides specialty cancer care services at a network of locations at the University of Rochester Medical Center and throughout the region. The Institute also includes a team of 100 scientists who investigate many aspects of cancer, with an emphasis on how best to provide precision cancer care.