20240617-Colleagues of Thermo Fisher-Final

United by passion and purpose: How two colleagues are fighting against MS

Imagine being at the forefront of cutting-edge medical research, working tirelessly to find cures for debilitating diseases like multiple sclerosis (MS) – and then being diagnosed with it yourself. Or being so passionate about eradicating MS that you dedicate your free time to fundraising – only to discover that two of your own family members are now battling the disease you’ve been fighting to cure.

 

This is the reality for John Hamlet, Leader of Clinical Delivery for MS, and Scott Savett, Senior Software Analyst. Their personal connections with the disease have transformed their professional journeys into deeply personal crusades for hope and healing.

 

Thermo Fisher is making a profound impact on patients' lives by enabling our customers to accelerate MS research, diagnosis and treatment. “From unlocking vital proteomic and metabolic insights to advancing precision diagnostics for faster detection and supporting promising clinical trials, we're bringing hope and better outcomes to those affected by this challenging disease,” said John.

 

John and Scott’s paths converged serendipitously at an Hola! Business Resource Group, a networking organization for colleagues of Hispanic Heritage, event, where John met a mutual colleague who recognized their shared dedication and suggested he and Scott connect. This chance meeting revealed a common purpose, sparking a powerful partnership.

 

Though they are about 1,500 miles apart, with Scott in Maryland and John in Texas, the two connect regularly and have become invaluable allies, creating community, amplifying each other’s efforts and inspiring greater involvement in MS-related initiatives across the company. Their collaboration has not only strengthened their advocacy but also enabled them to share their stories and encourage others to join the cause.

 

Scott Savett: A volunteer’s journey to leading MS advocacy

Scott's journey began in 2004 when he first participated in Bike MS, a cycling event organized by the National MS Society to raise funds and awareness for research and support. At the time, he didn't have a personal connection to the disease; he was motivated by a general desire to get involved  after hearing about it from his leadership team.

"It was an opportunity to support a great cause and engage in community service. Little did I know how deeply personal this cause would become," said Scott.

One year later, Scott's path took a profound turn when he learned his brother-in-law was living with the disease, offering him a deeper understanding of its daily challenges. But it was his wife Kate’s diagnosis that truly galvanized him – transforming concern into a powerful drive to take action.

"When I learned my brother-in-law had MS, it was eye-opening. But when Kate was diagnosed in 2015, it hit home in a way I could never have imagined. Suddenly, MS wasn't just a cause; it was a daily reality," Scott said.

By leaning on his extensive experience and network within Thermo Fisher, Scott has become an influential advocate for the disease. He actively connects with colleagues, sharing his experiences and motivating them to participate in MS-related events and initiatives.

His passion and leadership have motivated colleagues across the organization, turning individual efforts into a powerful force.

"The support from my Thermo Fisher colleagues has been incredible. It's amazing to see how a shared cause can unite us across different sites," Scott remarked.

Leading by example in Bike MS events

While Scott may look the part of a serious cyclist in his cycling shoes, padded shorts and Thermo Fisher Scientific jersey, he’s actually a casual cyclist with a modest road bike. He says that cycling is a mere mechanism to bring people together to support the MS Society.

"My colleagues have shown tremendous support by forming teams and volunteering at Bike MS events. It's not just about riding a bike; it's about coming together for a common cause and making a difference," Scott stated.

Since Scott started keeping track of team fundraising in 2007, the Thermo Fisher Bike MS: Bike to the Bay (Delaware) team has raised more than $183,000. Scott has welcomed dozens of participants over the years to Delaware, including colleagues from throughout the U.S. and U.K. A “virtual rider” option gives remote participants the flexibility to ride closer to their home on the day of their choosing.

 “This has been an amazing way to meet colleagues in different divisions and business units who I would have never met otherwise,” Scott said.

Scott's journey is a testament to how personal experiences can transform into powerful advocacy efforts. His unwavering commitment to finding a cure highlights the profound impact one person's passion can have in inspiring and mobilizing a broader community.

"The support from Thermo Fisher colleagues has been a beacon of hope. Together, we are making strides in MS research and support through philanthropic efforts, proving that collective action can lead to significant change," Scott said.

John Hamlet: Blending professional expertise with personal experience

John Hamlet stands at the intersection of science and empathy. By a twist of fate, John was already working on MS clinical trials when he was diagnosed with the disease himself, which has made his journey uniquely profound.

 

John’s experience with the disease positions him to drive advancements in new therapies, including a medication he personally uses and developed by Thermo Fisher.

John’s touchpoint has increased and he now oversees the operations and delivery of over a dozen ongoing clinical trials related to MS. This dual perspective offers John an unparalleled understanding of the disease, enabling him to contribute significantly to our research and development efforts.

"I take a medicine that my colleagues developed. Our company led the research that brought this medicine to market. Before starting on the drug, I had the chance to talk to the doctors who were involved in this work. What a unique opportunity!" said John. 

Shortly after his diagnosis, John began participating in Walk MS events. What started as a personal endeavor evolved into a collective movement, drawing in colleagues and growing into a large, supportive team united by a shared purpose. Over the last 17 years, his team has raised more than $150,000.

"When I started with Walk MS, we had a team of nine people. A few years into it, we had a team of over 75. For those looking to get involved, I would encourage them to go to their local MS societies and form a team to participate or volunteer by manning a station, helping with cleanup or cheering people on as they start or finish," he said.

Over the years, John has emerged as a leading fundraiser for MS organizations, using his compelling personal story to inspire and mobilize others. And as a visible patient advocate within Thermo Fisher, he’s been invited to speak at numerous events, sharing his journey to educate, motivate and connect colleagues and stakeholders alike.

A resource for newly diagnosed patients

One of the most rewarding aspects of John’s journey is his ability to connect with newly diagnosed patients. By sharing his own experiences, he offers hope, guidance and reassurance to those navigating similar challenges.

 

To maximize his impact, John speaks at team meetings, participates in podcasts and actively engages with local patient advocacy groups – ensuring his message reaches and uplifts as many people as possible.

 

"The outpouring of support from my co-workers is amazing. When people started seeking me out with their own diagnosis, I realized that my experience as a patient and my experience as a researcher gave me a unique perspective that allowed me to help them navigate their own experiences with hope and peace." 

John recounted one particularly moving experience where a colleague sought his advice after being diagnosed. 

"A colleague called me and said an employee of hers was just diagnosed with MS; she was young and recently married, as well as new to the company, and asked if I would speak with her about navigating her situation. That colleague did not know how to share such a life-changing diagnosis with her family, so what she did was join our Walk MS team and invited her family to participate and that is how she told them. It was so encouraging to her to have a whole Thermo Fisher team behind her providing support when she needed it most."

John's goal for the future

Looking ahead, John envisions Thermo Fisher remaining at the forefront of MS research and treatment, with the ultimate goal of ending the debilitating disease. "I have an amazing privilege to sit in the chair of leading the clinical development for MS at a time when amazing new therapies are in development. Thermo Fisher can lead the work to bring an end to MS. This is real. This is close."

Back to top