Law firms have more than just legal expertise to offer. They are uniquely positioned to lend support and foster innovative projects that benefit society at large. One such initiative is Project W: Warming the Heart and Body, spearheaded by Davis Wright Tremaine LLP. This project arose from a personal journey and has evolved into a mission to help mastectomy patients overcome an unexpected yet common aftermath of the procedure – the feeling of cold.
In her determination to turn adversity into opportunity, Kristen Carbone, the driving force behind Project W, started her fight against breast cancer losing her mother to the disease. Following a cancer scare of her own and the resultant decision to undergo a preventative bilateral mastectomy and reconstruction, Kristen grappled with a side effect that was unexpectedly discomforting and often overlooked – constant, debilitating cold.
As explained by the team of Davis Wright Tremaine LLP at the heart of this project, recognizing this often-dismissed issue was the first step in creating substantive change. By bringing the issue to light and leveraging their resources, they sought to make a difference in the lives of others facing the same challenge. (Full Story)
While the legal world is typically known for its adversarial nature, projects like this affirm law firms’ increasing role in societal problems. Beyond their legal assistance, they are becoming agents of innovation and compassion, redirecting their resources to support causes that materially enhance life conditions and provide warmth – both metaphorically and, as in the case of Project W, literally.
This demonstrates that the corporate legal sphere can engage directly with other sectors to innovate and bring about change. As law firms increasingly realize their potential to contribute beyond their traditional roles, it enriches both their internal culture and impacts society positively.