Pubbelly Sushi Raises Funds for Sylvester

For the second year in a row, the popular Miami sushi chain, Pubbelly Sushi, hosted a “Pink Drink” fundraiser to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness Month and raise funds for Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center at the University of Miami Miller School of Medicine.

“We always look to support local organizations, and the impact Sylvester is having in the fight against cancer, right in our own backyard, made it a perfect partner for us,” said Andrea Petersen, managing partner of Pubbelly Sushi.

Throughout October, the South Florida-based restaurant infused the color pink throughout the dining experience to engage their customers with the fundraiser. The main attraction was their pink sangria, a blend of rosé, fresh fruit, guava and lemon juice, simple syrup, a splash of Sprite and garnished with bamboo leaf.

A portion of the proceeds from each sale went to Sylvester’s Cancer Support Services program, to provide wigs for cancer patients and survivors. All told, the campaign raised closed to $8,000.

Removing Barriers

“The generous donations received help us meet an important need for our patients — a need that helps to restore their self-image with no barriers. After their wig fittings, patients tell me ‘I feel normal, more like myself and can go out in public with confidence now,’” said Tangela Hillery, concierge coordinator at Sylvester’s Cancer Resource Room, who fits each patient for their new look.

“As the only NCI-designated cancer center in South Florida, and one of only two in the state, we are committed to improving outcomes for our patients,” said Stephen D. Nimer, M.D., director of Sylvester, Oscar de la Renta Endowed Chair in Cancer Research and professor of medicine, biochemistry and molecular biology. “We are appreciative of Pubbelly Sushi’s efforts to support our patients along their cancer journey.”

Pubbelly’s renowned executive chef, Jose Mendin, says the vibrant colored drink and the noble cause will remain a staple of this successful fundraiser, which will be a yearly addition to their menu.

“It’s our honor to continue our partnership for Breast Cancer Awareness Month with this incredible and deserving organization,” said Chef Mendin, who is a five-time James Beard award semi-finalist. “The wig program is helping these amazing patients feel more like themselves while they’re going through treatment, and we are so grateful to be able to help.”

Learn more about the EBeauty Wig Exchange within Ancillary Cancer Support Services here.

Tags: Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Cancer Support Services, Dr. Stephen D. Nimer, EBeauty Wig Exchange, Jose Mendin, Pubbelly Sushi, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center