Brian will always be remembered for his husky laugh, his abundance of lasting friendships, his fun-loving nature and his dedication to his company, Connors-Haas Electric. When he was diagnosed with multiple myeloma in 2010, he relied on his strong faith, and the love of his family and friends for support. Today, five years since his passing, his legacy lives on through a fund that ensures other patients have access to specialized care close to home.

A Life-Changing Diagnosis

In the spring of 2010, Brian's family noticed he seemed unusually tired and run down. After a series of tests, he received a devastating diagnosis: multiple myeloma, a cancer of the plasma cells that affects approximately 35,000 new patients each year in the United States.

A Community United

“Brian's resilience and positive spirit touched everyone he met,” expressed Linda Ayer, Brian's sister and current owner and C.E.O. of Connors-Haas. When Brian passed, his company, along with his family and friends, were determined to honor his memory by supporting others fighting multiple myeloma. The Brian Haas Research Fund for Multiple Myeloma was established to direct donations to the Lipson Cancer Institute, ensuring that patients in the Rochester area have access to cutting-edge treatments and technology.

The Legacy Continues

Today, The Brian Haas Research Fund for Multiple Myeloma has raised over $70,000, thanks to leading gifts from David, Linda, Jordan and Catherine Ayer. The fund has helped support:

• Advanced diagnostic equipment, including medical mannequins used to help trainee physicians learn how to perform bone marrow biopsies

• Immunity studies to determine which disease state is at most risk for infectious complications

• Innovative treatment options

• Patient support services

Linda explains the inspiration and purpose of the Fund, "The Brian Haas Research Fund for Multiple Myeloma was established at the RGH Lipson Cancer Institute because of the excellent care Brian received from Dr. Saad Jamshed and his team. They had an infinite amount of patience, and compassion treating Brian with respect, humor and kindness. They also seamlessly coordinated with Dana Farber Cancer Institute as needed, bringing the most recent advances for treating Multiple Myeloma to Rochester. This allowed Brian to continue to run his company while being surrounded by the love and support of his community. The goal of the Fund is to support treatment and research at RGH with medical professionals like Dr. Jamshed and his team, by ensuring that other patients have the same opportunity for quality local care."

Join the Fight Against Multiple Myeloma

Please consider helping us continue Brian's legacy and supporting patients battling multiple myeloma by making a contribution today.