About the Rob branham Foundation

The Foundation was founded in 1994 in memory of Rob Branham, who passed away in October 1993 from complications after a successful bone marrow transplant.  In keeping with his wishes, this non-profit organization was designed to help educate the public about bone marrow (and now stem cell) transplants and the need for more donors to be entered into the international registry, to provide funding for bone marrow testing, and to generally support families fighting leukemia. The Foundation works to provide families with the support they need to fight blood cancers and win their battle for life.

Our Mission

The mission of the Rob Branham Foundation is to provide financial and emotional support, educational information, and other pertinent resources to families fighting leukemia or other blood cancers, so as to allow them to live as normally as possible while proceeding with their treatment.  ​

Our Vision

We believe fighting leukemia and other blood cancers Is enough of a battle.  Our vision is to provide financial support to as many families as we can, so they can focus their attention on their loved one’s treatment and healing, instead of worrying about bills not covered by insurance.  We want every patient in need of a non-related donor transplant to find a match through BeTheMatch.org.

Destination

A day when those fighting against leukemia and other blood cancers are free of financial burdens and have the educational and emotional support to win the battle.

Financial

 RBF provides monetary assistance to patients and their families while they are fighting the illness.

Education

RBF provides educational information and serves as a resource for patients and their families.

Donors

Increasing the number of registered donors by creating awareness about the need.

About Rob

He was like a bolt of lightning surrounded by a ray of sunlight. His infectious grin, twinkling eyes and warm personality were magnetic. Filled with endless energy, his friends lovingly called him “Mr. Positive.” Once you met him...you could never forget him.

Rob was raised in Stamford, and lived the last 17 years of his life in Simsbury. He was an avid runner and water skier, loved music, and collected antique radios and televisions. He began his broadcasting career in high school, and worked at leading radio and television stations throughout Connecticut. Rob’s honesty and integrity built him a reputation as a hard-working, well-respected salesman.

He proudly worked for 10 years as a volunteer reader for the blind on the Connecticut Radio Information System (CRIS). He also participated in various fundraisers sponsored by Fidelco, the Advertising Club of CT, and the Leukemia Society.
Rob’s international search for a non-related marrow donor sparked great interest in and compassion for other people stricken with leukemia who were not as fortunate to find donors. He made a pledge to himself that, after his recovery, he would actively work to recruit potential bone marrow donors, especially for minority populations.

Rob was diagnosed with leukemia in January 1992. After a year and a half search for a non-related donor, Rob underwent a bone marrow transplant at Brigham & Women’s Hospital in Boston. The transplant was successful, and on September 3, 1993, Rob went home to begin his recovery. During this time, unexpected complications arose, which eventually claimed Rob’s life on October 12, 1993, at the young age of 43.

RBF Board

Linette Branham, president

“Being part of this organization goes beyond honoring Rob. Having dealt with the stress, fright, and uncertainty that leukemia brings into a life, I know how family members often feel. Anything I can do to help them get through their tough times helps me say ‘thank you’ to all those who supported us and gave Rob a second chance.”

kari mckusick, secretary

“My first introduction to the Rob Branham Foundation was through Lin Branham.  The Rob Branham Foundation, its members, and its mission is one that I instantly connected with and recognized as impactful and meaningful.  I joined the board in 2017 to help families in need fighting blood cancers, to relieve the financial stresses of their day-to-day lives, and so that they could remain focused on treatment and healing.  I continue to work with the Rob Branham Foundation to bring awareness and educate our community to this cause, so we can continue to support those in need.”

robert knox, treasurer

I came to learn about The Rob Branham Foundation through Hartford Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (HYPE). After hearing Rob and Lin’s story, I knew this was an organization that I wanted to join. There are over 1.3 million Americans living with some form of blood cancer, and there is a new blood cancer diagnosis in the United States every 3 minutes. In a short period of time I have seen the tremendous repercussions that a single diagnosis can have on an entire family, as well as how impactful it can be to have support from the community. I’m thankful for the experience that I’ve had with The Rob Branham Foundation to date and I am honored to serve on the Board of Directors.​
ALISON RAPOSE
I’ve witnessed first-hand the devastating effects of a cancer diagnosis and the ensuing treatment.  From the financial implications of mounting medical bills and loss of income to the emotional roller coaster as people attempt to educate themselves about their cancer and wrap their head around the battle that lies ahead; it’s not an easy road to travel.  When I learned of the mission of The Rob Branham Foundation and met Lin I felt instantly connected. It is my privilege to work with the amazing board of RBF to bring hope and resources to individuals fighting leukemia.

tom brewer

After first meeting Lin and discussing what the Rob Branham Foundation was all about, I immediately knew I wanted to be a part of it. This organization has assisted so many families and to be able to help during that process is a real honor. I never had the pleasure of meeting Rob but Lins stories shine light on what a truly remarkable person he was. I’m lucky to have met Lin an be welcomed onto the board and I hope that my involvement will further increase the number of families we assist.

jackie mcdonald

Testimonials

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There are no words large enough for us to express the gratitude we feel for all your support. We will always remember your kindness. Rob is beaming above with pride for all of the board members. This goodness lives on in all of you

Name

The Rob Branham
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I am so fortunate there are people like you who can help those in need, like me. I can’t even begin to tell you how much this means to me. I felt like my whole world was falling apart and there was nothing I could do about it. Your kindness and generosity will make it possible for me to change that and has given me new hope. A simple thank you is so inadequate.

The Rob Branham
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I am very thankful to this foundation and appreciate your consideration. The financial assistance truly makes a difference for my family. God bless the Foundation for all the great acts towards people in need.

The Rob Branham
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I would like to thank Rob Brandham Foundation for helping me in my desperate time of need. The Rob Branham Foundation truly understands first hand what it is like living with CML. They are not just a foundation, they are caring individuals who truly want to make dealing with CML easier for you and lighten your burdens, hopelessness, and stress by assisting you with financial assistance and getting you in the right direction to find the help you need. I truly thank God for the foundation!

The Rob Branham
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Foundation

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