Inspiring the Next Generation of V Foundation Supporters
How Marla Milone was impassioned by her own cancer journey to inspire young adults to support cancer research
As a recent graduate of Villanova, Marla Milone was living in New York City as a budding young professional in 2018.
One day, unexpectedly, the left side of her body went numb. She was confused and slightly concerned but felt normal the next day after sleeping. Her dad urged her to see a doctor, and when she did, they recommended an x-ray. After putting the x-ray off for a couple of weeks, she ended up getting it done. The x-ray led to more questions, and PET and CT scans.
The ultimate result: a diagnosis of Hodkin’s Lymphoma. Just days later, she was in the hospital getting a port for treatment.
“It was undoubtedly a terrifying moment hearing those words…you have cancer” Marla reflected. “Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d be facing cancer. I’ve watched several family members battle the disease, with my grandmother on my mom’s side and my uncle on my father’s side losing their lives to it. But somehow, I never thought it would touch me, especially not at the age of 22. I was overwhelmed by shock, yet despite the uncertainty, there was an inner sense of peace – I never truly believed I wouldn’t overcome it.”
Marla and her doctors remained positive throughout her entire eight months of treatment. Her treatment was a mix of traditional chemotherapy and recently developed immunotherapy. She underwent this ‘cocktail’ for seven months, before having her thymus (an organ that helps your immune system as a child) removed and recovering for a month. The gentler immunotherapy options are a testament to advancements in cancer research.
“It’s truly remarkable to witness the advancements in immunotherapy research,” Marla shared. “The fact that we now have treatment options that specifically target cancerous cells, sparing healthy ones, is nothing short of extraordinary. I feel privileged to have been part of the group fortunate enough to benefit from these advancements in research. This breakthrough holds immense promise for the future of cancer treatment and offers hope to those who will face a diagnosis in the years to come.”
Marla’s support system was incredible, and she credits them for remaining hopeful and positive throughout her journey.
“I felt incredibly fortunate to have a team of doctors who were so optimistic and reassured me that everything would be okay. But what truly broke my heart was realizing that I had to watch my family endure this alongside me. That, more than anything, was the hardest part—seeing them suffer as I went through it.
Having the love and support of others was crucial. Without it, the hope that support brings would have been missing, and that can make all the difference. Staying positive throughout this journey not only improved my outcome but also gave me the strength to face it with a smile on my face, knowing I wasn’t alone.”
Now over six years from the original time of her diagnosis, she continues to show no evidence of disease and proudly shares her story to inspire and encourage others going through their own personal cancer journey. Even during her treatment, Marla knew she wanted to do something that would make a difference.
“Every day, I watched young children walk into the infusion center for their treatments. Seeing them endure this, while I was further along in my own journey, left me feeling that there had to be more I could do to help them through this.”
Right at the end of her treatment, Marla attended an event at the New York Athletic Club where Villanova men’s basketball head coach Jay Wright spoke. While at the event, she heard former ESPN president and current V Foundation board member George Bodenheimer speak about the V Foundation’s work.
As a long-time sports fan, Marla was familiar with the V Foundation, However, when she heard George speak about the urgent need for cancer research and awareness, especially for younger generations, she was inspired to get involved. She spoke to George after the event and laid out her idea.
“I told him, ‘I want to host a black-tie gala for cancer research at the New York Athletic Club, aiming to raise awareness for the next generation of supporters. My goal is to engage them now, so they can become passionate supporters in the future and fully understand the critical importance of funding cancer research and the incredible work the V Foundation does.'”
In 2019, Marla’s vision came to life. She and the committee sold out the venue for the first Victory Gala. Hundreds of young professionals spent the evening networking and learning about the importance of the V Foundation, all while raising money for game-changing cancer research!
This year will be the third Victory Gala, featuring a new venue, Gotham Hall, to accommodate more attendees.
“We’ve significantly expanded our network of young adults engaged in the V Foundation, and I’m eager to meet all the new faces who will be joining us at this year’s event. I look forward to introducing more people to the V Foundation and the incredible work they do. It’s truly inspiring, and I want more young adults to learn about it and become aware of its impact, so that they can remain steadfast in their commitment to this cause in the years to come.”
Being involved in philanthropy can be intimidating for many young people starting out in their careers but aren’t sure where to begin. Marla aims to create a sense of inclusion and community through the Victory Gala.
“At my age, many young adults are eager to get involved in philanthropy but often lack direction. There are so many causes and events competing for attention, it can be overwhelming. What we’re doing here is bringing together a group of young professionals who are at the beginning of their careers and already making significant strides. By engaging them now, we’re ensuring they’ll be in a position to contribute even more meaningfully in the future. It’s a powerful reminder that even small efforts can make a lasting impact.”
The 2024 Victory Gala is November 22 at Gotham Hall in New York City. Tickets and sponsorships are still available. For more information about the event, or to purchase tickets, visit victorygala.org.
“I am truly honored to be a part of this foundation, to have the opportunity to organize this event, and to help spread positivity in such a meaningful way. Facing cancer is an incredibly terrifying experience, and the uncertainty of it all can feel suffocating. But through it all, the unwavering support of others is what kept me going. Simply knowing that you’re not alone makes all the difference. To have the V Foundation’s support—this incredible network of people who are dedicated to making a change—has been a source of immeasurable strength and comfort. It’s not just about the fight against cancer; it’s about the power of community, hope, and love during a time when everything else feels so uncertain.”
