Past Events

As a cancer survivor, 28 year-old Rob Read would not wish the disease on anyone else in the world. However, he now knows that there are millions of survivors out there just like him. Diagnosed with neuroblastoma at age one, Rob underwent treatment and was cancer-free by age two. In 2004, in his early 20s and senior year of college, Rob was faced with another diagnosis—thyroid cancer. He completed treatment later the same year, and is especially appreciative of the support he received from his family and friends. He says that his mother has always been his biggest asset in his fight against cancer. His mom shared how beautiful the experience of life is and makes Rob want to live forever. Rob believes that for those facing cancer, it’s important to stay in tune with whatever brings joy into your life, and try to stay connected to it during treatment. He says, “The unwanted road ahead may be long, bumpy and painful, but no matter what the outcome, you will change into a stronger person in ways you could never imagine.” This March, Rob will celebrate five years thyroid cancer-free.

Joining Rob on the Breakaway Mile are his parents and three close friends, as well as Amgen Scientist Steve Elliott.

Steve Elliott, Scientific Executive Director, Amgen

Steve Elliott joined Amgen in 1983 and has played an integral role in developing medicines that help millions of people diagnosed with cancer every year. He says, “Scientists have a finite time to do this work… so, work fast, efficiently and be flexible, collaborate and, if possible, try to work on a project that can be accomplished in your lifetime. Knowing that you have participated in something that can help millions of people is the greatest reward there is.”

“Cancer is not a death sentence.” These are important words of wisdom from tongue and neck cancer survivor Kenny Chew who was diagnosed in December 2007. During 2008, Kenny simultaneously underwent radiation and chemotherapy, and also had neck surgery. His support system, especially his wife and family, helped him through, as well as his faith, which gave him the strength and confidence to fight the fight on a daily basis. Kenny also found it helpful to stay as active as possible to keep depression at a distance. Kenny feels that his experience with cancer has provided

him a new lease on life and now he’s able to really enjoy the little things. Riding with Kenny in the Breakaway Mile are family members and good friends, as well as Amgen Scientist Terry Rosen.

Terry Rosen, Vice President, Chemistry Research and Discovery, Amgen

As Vice President of Chemistry Research and Discovery, Terry Rosen leads Amgen’s research efforts for the Chemistry function. A seasoned executive who joined Amgen in 2004, he has more than 20 years of experience in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. Rosen holds numerous patents and has published extensively in the areas of medicinal and synthetic organic chemistry.

Diagnosed with a grade 3 brain tumor in December 2007, Ryelle Leverett hasn’t lost focus on the importance of remaining calm and breathing deeply. She shares that there is no helpful energy in being gloomy about something you may or may not be able to change, and that it’s better for your health if you laugh and enjoy the present. Ryelle has maintained her positive outlook and continues to exercise through treatment, which included surgery, radiation and chemotherapy, and now consists of ongoing chemotherapy. Ryelle is extremely grateful for the support she recieves from her husband who conducts extensive cancer research online and brings a smile to her face as he keeps

a watchful eye on her mental well-being. She’s also found great strength from her weekly journaling class at The Wellness Community. Journaling is one of the many programs offered at The Wellness Community that helps participants take control of their cancer experience by focusing the mind, body, and spirit.

Joining Ryelle for the Breakaway Mile are the members of her support team, including her husband Ron, mother, sister, aunt and walking friends Ellen and Barbara, as well as Amgen Scientist Jon Oliner.

Jon Oliner, Scientific Director, Amgen

With extensive experience and interest in cancer biology and gene regulation, Jon Oliner joined Amgen in 1999 and led both the research and development teams for Amgen’s therapeutic program targeting the angiopoietins. These efforts resulted in the development of potent angiopoietin inhibitors capable of supressing tumor growth in preclinical trials. One of these inhibitors, AMG 386, is currently being evaluated in cancer patients.

In 2006, 54-year-old Gary Miller had a prostate screening test that showed elevated levels. He underwent a series of tests and biopsies during the next two years. In January 2008, he was officially diagnosed with prostate cancer and underwent surgery. His health insurance situation was complicated at that point in time, and Gary and his wife received wonderful advice and support navigating the path from Patient Advocate Foundation. After surgery in April, Gary quickly recovered and resumed his normal life. Then, in October, Gary was diagnosed with melanoma. In November, he had a spot removed from his calf. Now, ready for the new year and healthy, Gary is grateful for those who helped him along the way, especially his wife Karen, his support group mentor Dale, and Patient Advocate Foundation.

Riding with Gary in the Breakaway Mile are family members and great friends, as well as Amgen Scientist Joe Miletich.

Joe Miletich, Senior Vice President, Research and Development, Amgen

“At Amgen, we strive to bring safe, effective medicines from lab, to manufacturing plant, to patient,” says Joe Miletich. “We are committed to advancing science to dramatically improve people’s lives.” Knowing that it takes years, even decades, to develop medicines, when asked what keeps him motivated, Dr. Miletich says, “I simply remember as a doctor, what it feels like to tell patients there isn’t anything else to try, and then to try to imagine what it feels like to hear that message.”