VHF is honored to nominate Monika Eiden, Global HR Director, AMF Bakery Systems, as our fourth Volunteer of the Year Nominee! Monika is a community member and active volunteer with the chapter as a committee member and recent BOD member. Monika has been involved with VHF in a leadership role for nine years, and constantly finds new ways to contribute to the success of the organization with a strong focus on the needs of the community.
Over the past several years, Monika has led a strong fundraising effort for the Unite for Bleeding Disorders Walk in honor of her brother Lukasz and is consistently in the top teams for fundraising. This year, she was the “Top Walker” and “Top Team Captain” while also serving on the Unite Walk Committee for the second year in a row. She also recruited a new team to participate in the walk this year! She has also stepped up by filming testimonials for walk participation for NHF. For her outstanding leadership in fundraising in 2021, we are proud to nominate her for 2021 Volunteer of the Year.
Monika says:
“My involvement with Virginia Hemophilia Foundation began in 2012 almost exactly 4 years after my brother Lukasz, who had severe Hemophilia A, died from a brain bleed (third in his lifetime). He was 23 years old. His death shattered my world and left a big hole in my heart. Once I went through all stages of grief, I wanted to do something meaningful to honor Lukasz’s memory and carry on his legacy. That is when I met Kelly Waters and VHF became a part of my life.
Lukasz and I were born and raised in Poland, and when my brother was growing up, we didn’t have access to resources, medicine, research and organizations such as VHF. I’m very passionate about VHF because my direct involvement in volunteering and fundraising activities can improve lives of those affected by bleeding disorders and provide them with life-saving resources my brother didn’t have.
My favorite VHF event is the Unite Walk because it helps me spread the word and education about bleeding disorders, as well as get my 5-year-old son, Henry Lukas, involved in this important cause. Unfortunately, Henry will never meet his uncle Lukasz, but he will help me keep his memory alive and support the community of wonderful people.
Virginia Hemophilia Foundation gave me a purpose in life when I needed it the most. I’m extremely honored and grateful to be nominated for the Volunteer of the Year. I believe that by working together via fundraising, volunteering and the advocacy work, we can ensure that families have access to quality healthcare and educational resources they need to care for their loved ones.”
