Donald Distasio

For 35 years, Don Distasio has been at the forefront of the fight against cancer. During his tenure with the American Cancer Society, the Brooklyn-born CEO has seen cancer deaths plummet — the result of a well-orchestrated plan to fight cancer through research, education, advocacy and services to patients and families. Known for his ability to build strong external relationships with executive leaders, Don’s vision and leadership enabled the Eastern Division to break the $102 million fundraising mark in 2007.

A prostate cancer survivor himself, Don is firmly committed to reaching newly-diagnosed patients with help when they need it most. By building relationships with key health care systems, Don set the Eastern Division on course to reach a much greater proportion of New York and New Jersey’s 130,000 new cancer patients. This year, the organization will reach more patients than ever before.

Don’s vision in the area of major gifts resulted in opening the Hope Lodge New York City Jerome L. Greene Family Center in 2007. The largest Hope Lodge in the nation, the facility provides free lodging and intensive support services for those who must leave home for specialized treatment in one of Manhattan’s major cancer treatment centers. Hope Lodge New York City is part of a nationwide network of more than 20 facilities, including Rochester and Buffalo.

In recent years, Don forged partnerships with the New York State Department of Health, New York Health Plan Association, New York Health and Hospitals Corporation, New Jersey Department of Health and Senior Services, New York City Council, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of NJ and Excellus Blue Cross Blue Shield. Don has used his influence to engage nearly 100 major corporate employers in both states.

Don is the proud leader of an organization that was named a “Best Place to Work” in two states in 2007. He serves on the National Executive Team, the group of 13 CEOs that lead the national organization. To address the Eastern Division’s most urgent issues, Don convened experts for the Eastern Division Board of Directors’ Diversity and Disparities Council, Tobacco Control Strikeforce and the Mammography Strikeforce.

A graduate of Indiana State University, Don resides with his wife, Kathy, in Baldwinswille, New York, where they remain loyal Yankee fans. They are the parents of three adult children: Kristin, Michael and Donald.