Halpern's CGA Honors his Dana-Farber Caregivers
Inspired by the compassionate care he has received at Dana-Farber, Lawrence Halpern established a CGA to benefit Dana-Farber's lifesaving mission.
As a college professor, Lawrence Halpern has spent nearly 16 years teaching finance and ethics to eager business students. But upon his diagnosis with prostate cancer in 1989, the tables were turned. Halpern found himself in the position of a pupil learning from Dana-Farber how to beat the disease.
With Philip Kantoff, MD, director of the Lank Center for Genitourinary Oncology and chief of the Division of Solid Tumor Oncology, as his "teacher," Halpern worked through treatment with flying colors. Though his cancer still remains today, it is under control.
And the 71-year-old, married father of two is exceedingly optimistic. "I want to help continue the compassionate patient care Dana-Farber provides," Halpern said.
With his $10,000 gift, Halpern has established a charitable gift annuity (CGA) that helps sustain the Institute's lifesaving work.
"My CGA helps me pay back the wonderful treatment and support I've received. I have a good thought about the Institute every day," said Halpern.
Halpern's CGA provides him with a guaranteed annual income and secures him a higher rate of return —6.5 percent— than other low-risk options, such as bonds and CDs. The annuity also provides substantial tax benefits, including an immediate tax deduction and partially tax-free earnings.When he receives the income payment from his CGA each year, Halpern said it serves as a continual reminder of Kantoff and his Dana-Farber caregivers.
"My CGA furthers cancer research that has helped keep me alive the last 15 years," he said.
