The Leopolds: A Chance Meeting and a Shared Mission
Lifelong University of Notre Dame fans Susan and Tim Leopold were attending a football game in 2018 when they unexpectedly crossed paths with someone who had already played a meaningful role in their daughter Natalie’s life.
Navigating Two Cancer Diagnoses
In 2017, just two weeks after the birth of her second child, Natalie was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma at age 31. Two months into treatment, she received a second diagnosis: thyroid cancer.
Susan and Tim immediately stepped in to support their daughter as she navigated treatment while caring for a newborn and a five-year-old.
Although Susan lived in Houston and Natalie in Chicago, Susan traveled every other week to be with her. “While you’re struggling and fighting, life goes on, and it requires all kinds of support from others,” Susan shared, reflecting on the importance of being present both physically and emotionally.
After her initial diagnosis, Natalie sought a second opinion at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, and ultimately received treatment at Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University, where she participated in an immunotherapy clinical trial. At the time, receiving immunotherapy prior to chemotherapy was still an emerging practice. The trial significantly reduced Natalie’s tumor and allowed her to avoid radiation, reinforcing the Leopolds’ belief in the lifesaving power of innovative research. They remain deeply grateful for the care Natalie received at both institutions.
What sustained them throughout the journey was faith. “We took it one day at a time, doing what needed to be done, physically, emotionally, and spiritually,” Susan recalled.
An Unforgettable Meeting
In 2018, while attending a Notre Dame tailgate, Susan and Tim sat down to eat and struck up a conversation with others at their table. Tim recognized one man seated with them, but he couldn’t quite place him until he introduced himself as Dick Vitale, an ESPN commentator and V Foundation for Cancer Research Board Member, a significant yet and unexpected moment for the Leopolds.
Years before, during her senior year at Notre Dame, Natalie had been a recipient of the Dick Vitale Family Scholarship, a gesture that had already left a lasting impact on their family.
Grateful to thank him in person, the Leopolds shared their appreciation for the scholarship and opened up about Natalie’s journey. Susan explained that Natalie had recently completed treatment for Hodgkin lymphoma and thyroid cancer.
Both families connected quickly, united by their shared experiences with cancer. Moved by Natalie’s story, Dick invited Susan and Tim to attend the Dick Vitale Gala later that spring. A few days later, Dick sent Natalie a copy of his book, signed with an iconic message: “Don’t Give Up . . . Don’t Ever Give Up!”®.
Having walked alongside their daughter through her cancer journey, Susan and Tim saw firsthand how research advancements save lives. Wanting to help ensure progress continues, they attended the Dick Vitale Gala the following May in 2019.
As longtime sports fans, the Leopolds found the Gala both powerful and unforgettable. They were inspired to see the sports community united in support of critical cancer research. Days later, they received a package from Dick with a personal message thanking them for sharing Natalie’s story, another meaningful experience that brought them closer to the V Foundation.
What resonated most with Susan and Tim was the V Foundation’s promise that 100% of direct donations go to cancer research, as an endowment covers administrative expenses. Proud supporters ever since, the Leopolds knew they had found an organization that honors their lived experiences and is making an impact.
A Meaningful Conversation
Today, Natalie is seven years cancer-free and a mother of three.
Grateful for the advancements that made Natalie’s recovery possible and committed to ensuring that progress continues, Susan and Tim were thrilled to attend the inaugural Austin Epicurean.
After their experience at the Dick Vitale Gala, they were eager to engage more deeply with the V Foundation community. The weekend proved moving, from attending Conversations for a Cure, where they heard directly from V Foundation-funded researchers, to being surrounded by a community united in the shared goal of accelerating Victory Over Cancer®.
Susan’s favorite moment came during the Vintner Showcase Reception, where she and Tim spoke with V Foundation grantee Dr. Josephine Taverna, who had also presented at Conversations for a Cure. “It was a lovely conversation,” Susan said. “We talked about our shared experiences with cancer, and she asked how Natalie was doing.”
For Susan, the opportunity to connect personally with researchers stood out. Susan was especially thankful for the time Dr. Taverna took to listen to Natalie’s story and connect with them, reminding her of the people behind the research.
Fueling Victories Big and Small
Attending V Foundation events like Austin Epicurean and the Dick Vitale Gala continues to inspire Susan and Tim.
“When you live through cancer, you see how much support is needed for the fight,” Susan shared. “Being part of this community and seeing all the V Foundation does is inspiring and gives hope to patients and families.”
Knowing Victory Over Cancer® looks different for everyone, Susan and Tim continue to give, for both the big and small victories, guided by Jim Valvano’s enduring words, “It may save someone you love.”
