Building a Community of Donors
Miami family makes generous gift to support the construction of the Griffin Cancer Research Building at Sylvester.
When Yoram and Margo Cohen moved to Florida, they sought ways to connect to their new community. With philanthropy deeply ingrained in their values, the couple gave generously to meaningful causes, especially those that touched them personally. This included Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, a part of the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.
Yoram’s cancer journey began nine years ago. The Cohens lived up north at the time, and that is where Yoram received most of his treatment. After the couple moved to Miami in 2018, he began treatment at Sylvester. Eventually, Yoram transitioned his care to Gilberto Lopes, M.D., Sylvester’s chief of the Division of Medical Oncology, associate director and medical director for international affairs.
It was during this time that a mutual friend introduced the Cohens to Sylvester Director Stephen D. Nimer, M.D. Through Dr. Nimer, also Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research, executive dean for research and professor of medicine, biochemistry and molecular biology at the Miller School, they learned about the groundbreaking cancer research being conducted at Sylvester, the region’s only National Cancer Institute-designated cancer center.
The Cohens were particularly impressed with the work being done at Sylvester, especially its leadership in developing innovative cancer therapies and treatments.
A Philanthropic Pledge
Shortly before Yoram’s passing in 2023, the Cohen family—Yoram, Margo and their three children, Elan, Adam and Donielle—made a $500,000 gift to support construction of the Kenneth C. Griffin Cancer Research Building at Sylvester. The 12-story, 244,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility will serve as a hub for cancer research, innovation, wellness and patient-centered care. The Griffin Cancer Research Building is expected to see its first patients in May, with the first wave of research floors being occupied this fall.
Speaking on behalf of her family, Donielle (Cohen) Debbi said they are honored to be a part of this monumental project.
“It was important to my father to be a vital part of the community,” said Debbi. “One of the many ways he did this was by helping build the best possible cancer research center and hospital here in South Florida, allowing patients to receive world-class care at home and not feel the need to travel.”
She added, “My father was always a strong proponent of research and the development of drug trials that could help extend people’s lives, and that is certainly one area in which Sylvester thrives.”
A Lasting Legacy
In gratitude for the Cohens’ generosity, the Margo and Yoram Cohen Family Infusion Waiting Area in the Griffin Cancer Research Building will be named in their honor.
“It’s always a privilege getting to know people like the Cohens, who share the cancer center’s vision,” said Dr. Nimer. “Their generosity will have a significant impact on our community. The Griffin Cancer Research Building will bring hope to patients in South Florida and beyond as Sylvester scientists and physicians collaborate under one roof to pioneer groundbreaking cancer research, innovate and advance cancer cures.”
Debbi says her family is looking forward to seeing the impact their philanthropy has on cancer patients and their loved ones.
“Sylvester was an important part of my father’s journey,” said Debbi. “Knowing his legacy will live on through the Griffin Cancer Research Building helps keep his memory alive for us.”
Tags: cancer research, philanthropy, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center