by Lisa Lyons

Lynn and Tammy Davis, members of the National Home Furnishings Industry for City of Hope, have donated $400,000 to fund autoimmune disease research conducted by Division of Hematology & Hematopoietic Cell Transplantation Chair Stephen J. Forman, M.D., and his team.

Davis, the president of Davis International, a furniture manufacturer based in West Point, Miss., serves on the board of directors for the National Home Furnishings Industry. He and his wife originally became involved with City of Hope through the industry’s annual golf tournament more than eight years ago. Lynn Davis was impressed when he learned about the compassionate care bestowed by those at the institution. “They not only try to heal patients, but they heal the families as well,” said Davis.

The gift is just the latest example of the Davises’ steadfast support. In honor of his 50th birthday in May 2005, Davis organized a celebration and auction that raised $240,000 for pediatric cancer research at City of Hope.  In October 2005, he was honored with the institution’s Spirit of Life® Award by his industry group. Davis hopes his most recent contribution will encourage other young business leaders to consider making gifts during their prime working years, as well as making a charitable bequest part of their estate.

Since its inception in 1965, the National Home Furnishings Industry has been a major force in supporting research and treatment programs at City of Hope. From a small beginning when a handful of industry members gathered with a common interest of saving lives, the group has grown to encompass a nationwide cross-section of manufacturers, retailers, suppliers, designers, marketing representatives and related members. To date, the National Home Furnishings has contributed more than $31 million as a premier industry support group for City of Hope.