#United States #Washington, D.C. #Visionaries of the Year #Blood Cancer United #Andy Calvert

Blood Cancer United Honors National Visionaries of the Year

Blood Cancer United, formerly known as The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, holds a pivotal role in advancing the research and support of blood cancer. This year, the organization celebrated the 2026 National Visionaries of the Year, who are exemplary leaders making significant strides in their communities to raise funds and awareness for blood cancer.

Recognizing the Winners

The Visionaries of the Year campaign, now in its 38th year, is a remarkable philanthropic competition that encourages individuals to lead fundraising campaigns over ten weeks, all aimed at bolstering Blood Cancer United’s mission. In a heartfelt event, the organization publicly acknowledged their winners, with Andy Calvert of Washington, D.C., crowned as the National Visionary of the Year for his extraordinary fundraising efforts.

Calvert, representing Presidio, raised an impressive $624,548 alongside his team, The Difference Makers. His motivation stemmed from a deeply personal journey that began with his father's diagnosis of myelodysplastic syndrome in 2025. His campaign not only galvanized support from his colleagues and friends but also created a familial bond, as he celebrated significant moments with recognition events aligned with sports games in the D.C. metro region. Calvert shared, “This campaign became deeply personal when my father’s blood cancer diagnosis coincided with the birth of my youngest daughter.” His story demonstrates the powerful intersection of personal struggle and community support in the fight against blood cancer.

Runners-Up Making a Difference

Alongside Calvert, two remarkable runners-up, Emily Krasnicki of Palm Beach, Florida, and Martha Newsom from Charlotte, North Carolina, each raised over $600,000. Krasnicki’s campaign took on added significance as a close friend was diagnosed with blood cancer, motivating her to intensify her efforts. Meanwhile, Newsom drew upon her family’s history with blood cancer, transforming her long-standing involvement with the organization into a compelling fundraising initiative that aims to foster hope for future generations.

Celebrating Other Honorees

The event also highlighted Craig Beckinger from Tampa, Florida, as the All Star Visionary of the Year, raising $182,303. His commitment to the cause was spurred by personal loss, as he raised funds in memory of a dear friend. Furthermore, Kellie Harrington from Palm Beach, who secured the title Team Member of the Year after raising over $250,000, showed how personal connections can amplify the impact of fundraising efforts. Her involvement started alongside her sister’s campaign, uniquely blending personal family experiences into a significant result.

The Impact of Community

Coker Powell, EVP and Chief Revenue Officer at Blood Cancer United, commented on the essence of the Visionaries of the Year campaign: “This is a powerful reminder of what can happen when passionate individuals unite for a cause larger than themselves.” The campaign not only accelerates research and advocacy but also brings hope to countless families navigating the challenges posed by blood cancer.

In addition to the individual accomplishments, Blood Cancer United highlighted Lilly as the inaugural National Partner of Visionaries of the Year. Lilly recognizes that achieving progress against cancer requires more than scientific advances; it demands community collaboration, compassion, and action. This ethos resonates with the principles of the Visionaries of the Year campaign, which aims to inspire communities and leave a lasting impact in the realm of blood cancer care.

Conclusion

As Blood Cancer United continues its vibrant mission, the organization invites others to engage with their cause. Learn more about their initiatives and become part of the solution in the fight against blood cancer by visiting Blood Cancer United’s Website. The powerful stories from this year’s Visionaries of the Year remind us that through unity and dedication, significant change is not only possible but achievable.