Our Story
The Twister Project was created in loving memory of Alex “Twister” Padien Berdoff, whose courage and optimism continue to inspire us every day.
In 2019, at the age of 31, Alex was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma — a rare and aggressive bone cancer that most often affects children and young adults. He received treatment on the pediatric floor of Memorial Sloan Kettering (MSK), where a team of extraordinary doctors and nurses cared for him and his family with unwavering dedication.
Throughout his journey, Alex developed a desire to be able to help others facing the challenges of cancer. He dreamed of making the treatment and recovery process more accessible and bearable for patients and their loved ones.
The Twister Project is our way of honoring that dream — a living tribute to Alex’s generous spirit. We provide support to cancer patients and their families through practical assistance programs at world-class institutions.
Below, you’ll find examples of the impactful initiatives we proudly fund — each one chosen with Alex’s legacy in mind.
To learn more about Alex see his obituary below:
https://www.dignitymemorial.com/obituaries/greenwich-ct/paul-padien-berdoff-8923621
Memorial Sloane Kettering
Children’s Joy Fund
Child Life & Recreational Programs
Fun, age-appropriate activities for pediatric, teen, and young adult patients, including arts and crafts, music, group games, and opportunities to explore new interests.
Adolescent & Young Adult (AYA) Programs
Emotional and social support tailored to teens and young adults, helping them build community, education, and self-advocacy skills.
Financial Assistance Programs
Supports medical costs not covered by insurance (co-pays, deductibles) and essential nonmedical needs (housing, transportation, food, childcare, and household items), relieving families of financial stress during treatment.
Curious to learn more about MSK?
Email: development@mskcc.org
Visit: giving.mskcc.org
Dana-Farber Cancer Institute
Dana-Farber Young Adult Program (YAP)
Emotional support, peer connections, educational opportunities, and safe spaces for young adults facing cancer.
Blum Patient & Family Resource Center
Free access to information, workshops, and resources on treatment, nutrition, finances, and more.
Leonard P. Zakim Center for Integrative Therapies and Healthy Living
Complementary care including acupuncture, massage, nutrition and exercise counseling, and other wellness therapies.
Dana-Farber Sibling Program
Specialized support for siblings and families impacted by cancer or blood disorder diagnoses.
Curious to learn more about Dana-Farber?
Email: jimmyfundcontactus@dfci.harvard.edu
Visit: dana-farber.org/how-you-can-help
Please note: At Dana-Farber, 10% of every program-designated gift is allocated to the Faculty Research Fund (FRF), which supports Institute-wide research infrastructure and strategic advancements.