Alonso family donates $70,000 toward pediatric cancer research

  Members of the Alonso family, elected officials and experts in cancer medical care and research gathered Oct. 2 at the University of Miami Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center to tour the facility and celebrate the family’s $70,000 gift to support pediatric cancer research. The Alonsos raised the money at their 9th Annual Cars for a Cure auto and truck show held each April in Miami Lakes. Roberto J. Alonso thanked The Graham Companies which has supported the endeavor since the beginning. The elder Roberto Alonso, a vice mayor in town, was treated at UM Sylvester and enjoyed a longer life than expected thanks to the care he received, his son said. The family was inspired to support the health care facility and its research and launched the annual car show. From left: City of Miami Commissioner Miguel Angel Gabela; Rick Rodriguez Pina, managing member, RPak K12 Consultants; Rosie Marrero, account manager, Delta Dental; Sarah Rodriguez, manager, Retail Properties and Andrea Graham Rechici, Vice President, Corporate Relations, The Graham Companies;  Mauricio Banderas; Idania Alonso; Christine Banderas; Carolina Banderas and Luciano Banderas (children in front); Bradley Harrison Gampel, M.D., Pediatric Hematology & Oncology; Roberto Alonso; Jessica Mendoza; Kaylee Mendoza; Alexandra Alonso; Miami-Dade County Commissioner Sen. Rene Garcia, Dist. 13; Joshua Mendoza; Carmenchu Mingo, district aide, Fla. Rep. Alex Rizo’s office; William Sanchez (partially shown in back); Jesus Mendoza and Aaron Carper, Vice President, Public Sector Sales, UnitedHealthcare.