Gerald Swift lost his wife Nancy to breast cancer in 1998. Since her death, her cause has become his.
Gerry has become a champion of the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition (MBCC), for which Nancy volunteered for many years. As treasurer of MBCC’s Board of Directors, he has dedicated himself to MBCC’s mission of preventing environmental causes of breast cancer through community education, research advocacy and changes to public policy.
Recently, he played an instrumental role in introducing MBCC’s new educational program, “Let’s Talk Prevention: Reducing Toxic Exposures” to Massachusetts communities. He has also continued his wife’s work of educating state senators and representatives about the importance of environmental research into the preventable causes of breast cancer and other women’s health issues.
An avid athlete and runner, Gerry participates in MBCC’s premier annual fundraising event, Against the Tide, and conducts fundraising activities year-round. Gerry’s dedicated outreach has contributed significantly to raising awareness about breast cancer prevention.
“Gerry generously gives his time on Nancy’s behalf because of his belief that MBCC’s focus on prevention is important for his two daughters, his grandchildren and future generations,” says nominator Cheryl Osimo, MBCC executive director. “Gerry feels a great responsibility to ensure that no other family has to endure losing a loved one to cancer.”
