Fighting cancer
Nick Fifis stood before 200 family members, friends and supporters at Ponzio’s last week to celebrate the life of his father, Jim Fifis.
“I didn’t know my grandfather. I want my kids to remember theirs. And you’re helping to do that,” he said, allowing a few tears to roll down his face.
His father, Demetrios “Jim” Fifis, passed away on Aug. 27, 2007.
He was first diagnosed with cancer in 2003 and opted for surgery and chemotherapy. The cancer returned in 2006.
Jim Fifis was born in Greece and came to the United States in 1966.
He and his brothers owned Ponzio’s in Brooklawn and eventually he sold his share of the restaurant to become a co-owner of Ponzio’s in Cherry Hill with his three sons and nephew. His sons continue to work at the restaurant.
A week before his father passed away, Jim Fifis asked his wife, Violetta, and three sons, Chris, Nick and John, to raise money to find a cure for cancer.
Acting on his wish, Chris Fifis, the oldest brother, approached Susan Bass Levin, the president and CEO of the Cooper Foundation of Cooper University Hospital, to see if they could work together to raise money in the fight against cancer.
“He knew it was important to his family,” Bass Levin said. “I was happy to do it, and everyone at Cooper has jumped on board.”
From there, the Jim Fifis Lung Cancer Research Fund at Cooper was established. The fund has already raised more than $80,000.
Funding will go toward additional research, preventative measures and outreach at the Cooper Cancer Institute, said Frank Bowen, M.D., director of the Cooper Lung Cancer Center.
“By working together and pooling our expertise, our multidisciplinary lung cancer team provides each patient with a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment plan,” Bowen said.
Guests at the evening fund raiser last week were treated to dinner, dessert, wine and beer. Supporters mingled and also participated in a silent auction.
Earlier this summer, the Cooper Cookie was launched to help raise money for the fund.
The cookies were sold for $5 at Ponzio’s, Cooper University Hospital and Ravitz ShopRite stores.
Bass Levin said she is proud of the community’s support for the cause. She said she was impressed by the turnout at last week’s event.
“The support for such an important cause will make a difference in the lives of many,” she said.
The evening was bittersweet for Violetta Fifis, Jim’s wife of 40 years.
“It’s a very emotional night for me,” she said. “I’m honored. It means everything to me to have everyone come out.”
The brothers and their mother each thanked the guests for keeping Jim Fifis’ memory alive. Violetta Fifis shared some thoughts in Greek. The family was also presented with a plaque to remember the evening.
“With all your hope, love and dedication, you have helped make Jimmy’s vision a reality,” Violetta Fifis said.
“We’re here to fulfill his vision,” Nick Fifis said. “I wish he were here.”
