Brendan Hansen is a four-time Olympic medalist and the best breaststroker ever. Apart from working towards his passion, Hansen has been working with the Leukemia Research Foundation (LRF) as the national spokesperson since October 2004. He has been actively associated with the Chicago based foundation in developing a series of events and programs for fund raising. The funds are being utilized for worldwide medical research on causes and cures for leukemia, lymphoma and other blood cancers.
As the national spokesperson, Brendan has been giving back to the community through his motivational speaking and support to youth clinics. Several swim clinics throughout the country are under development which will be half-day clinics and feature Brendan as the lead clinician, and a greater portion of the registration fees will be allocated to the LRF for the financing of additional research grants.
Brendan has been helping the foundation work towards its cause. On his association with the LRF, he said that, “I’ve been able to make some hospital visits and become acquainted with patients and their families who are currently living with these diseases,” and that, “It really caused me to take a step back and put many things into perspective. I know how fortunate I have been to have my health and I really want to do whatever I can to help.”
Other fund raising programs include the introduction of Brendan Hansen line of merchandise, for funds for both leukemia research and swim clubs.
Leukemia Research Foundation
The Leukemia Research Foundation (LRF) works towards conquering leukemia, lymphoma and myelodysplastic syndromes by funding research for the causes and cures of the diseases and also towards improving the quality of life of those affected by the disease. It was founded in 1946 and is headquartered in Wilmette, Illinois. More than 1,500 volunteers, organized in 24 fundraising chapters have been working for the foundation. They have been funding research throughout the world to work towards the cause.