BASF customer Andrew Lee and the charity he founded, Driven to Cure, recently received the William Donald Schaefer People Helping People Award from the Maryland Comptroller. The award was presented on Nov. 17 at the National Institutes of Health in Washington D.C.
At 19, Lee was diagnosed with a rare form of kidney cancer. Now 21, Lee chose to fight his cancer and raise awareness of rare kidney cancers by creating the charity. He has raised more than $400,000 and shared his story of hope to thousands with his Driven to Cure custom 2015 Nissan GT-R.
“We’re honored to support Andrew and Driven to Cure,” said Dan Bihlmeyer, BASF marketing director, Automotive Refinish. “His spirit and determination are an inspiration for all.”
BASF provided the custom DTC orange Glasurit paint with a pearl effect for the GT-R and has continued to support Andrew and Driven to Cure at various events including the Cars & Fight Cancer event Oct. 14-15 in Virginia and at the SEMA Show in 2016.
“Andrew was chosen because of his amazing passion and commitment to raise awareness and money to help find a cure for rare cancers,” said Peter Franchot, comptroller for the state of Maryland. “His dedication and bravery are inspirations to all Marylanders. The work he’s doing brings hope and improves the quality of life for people around the world.”
The award, established in 2012, honors the public service of former Maryland Mayor, Governor and Comptroller, William Donald Schaefer. The award is presented to Maryland residents in each of the 23 counties and the city of Baltimore who demonstrate an unwavering dedication to helping others.
