Publisher's Note

Judy and George Goldman

Chair and Vice-Chair

Goldman Philanthropic Partnerships

Goldman Philanthropic Partnerships was just being birthed when, in 1998, Jay Canel, Best Man at our wedding some 50 years earlier, called to tell us that Elaine Snyderman had recently been diagnosed with multiple myeloma. Jay, as one of Perry Snyderman’s former law partners at Piper Rudnick, knew that George had been a decades-long client there. George immediately called Perry, offering his and Judy’s personal support – and hope – since Judy was, at that time, already a 9-year survivor of this incurable blood cancer – which statistically kills in 2 to 3 years.

Perry quickly became our first Executive Board member, joining us in our commitment to fight catastrophic diseases and optimize the search for research that can deliver near-term breakthroughs.

The power of the mind is incredible – and a critically important element in healing. It is clear that Elaine’s beautiful mind has been a significant factor in her personal battle to beat the survival statistics, as you will see after reading Alien on a Familiar Planet:  Remembering. Elaine has exquisitely and eloquently captured her experiences, hopes and dreams.

Goldman Philanthropic Partnerships believes that, in order to find cures for catastrophic diseases, we must fight on many fronts simultaneously, pushing aside artificial barriers and developing hope for patients and their caregivers. So, besides seeking out and collaboratively sponsoring the best researchers and most cutting-edge research, we are also advancing new techniques of patient support. We are here to serve humanity, in the best way we can, for as long as we can. As Gandhi said, "Be the change that you want to see in the world"

Goldman Philanthropic Partnerships published Elaine’s thought-provoking book to help the newly diagnosed and their loved ones understand the difficult but necessary journey they must travel – in order to find, not only a remission, but important new perspectives on aspects of life that are truly important. We are proud to have been a part of Elaine’s life, and in our own way, helpful to bringing Elaine’s life sustaining vision to others.

Judy and George Goldman
February, 2004