Tony and Teresa Funari, Braselton residents are giving back to that community with a gift to Northeast Georgia Health System (NGHS) to support cancer services so others can receive the life-saving treatment and care as they did while fighting cancer. Tony was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma in 2000. It was a battle he never saw himself having, but looking back, it was a battle he’s thankful for and one he couldn’t have gotten through without friends, family and his community. Teresa’s battle with breast cancer was different, but just as impactful on her life.
They’re also recognizing NGHS with this gift to honor Tony’s fellow Campaign Cabinet members who worked alongside him during a successful Inaugural fundraising campaign for Northeast Georgia Medical Center (NGMC) Braselton, which has become an asset to the community and region.
“I had so much support from the community during my battle with cancer,” said Funari, owner of Funari Realty. “Neighbors and friends drove me to chemo and brought us food. A lot of people helped us out. My view on life changed significantly as a result and I needed a way to pay back that kindness. I’ve been very proud of what my hospital has done and wanted to honor it with this gift.”
Because of the care he received and the support from his doctors, Funari began volunteering with NGHS after his bout with cancer and eventually went on to serve as Campaign Chair of the inaugural NGMC Braselton Fundraising Campaign. He’s been a member of the NGHS Foundation Board and continues to be very involved in the Braselton community, sponsoring a number of fundraising events benefitting different causes. The NGHS Foundation recognized Funari and his wife Teresa’s generosity and support with the dedication of the Funari Board Room at NGMC Braselton.
“As Campaign Chair of the inaugural Braselton Campaign, Tony and the committee raised nearly $5 million for NGMC Braselton which opened in 2015,” said Anthony Williamson, president of NGMC Braselton. “We would not be where we are today without the dedication of Tony and the support of his wife Teresa. We can’t thank them enough.”
