2015-Dec-10

Faster, Higher, Stronger: Meet Flavio Bacci

Flavio Bacci · Territory Manager · Sao Paolo

Earlier this year, Flavio Bacci and his family received some heartbreaking news about his 22-year-old son, Filipe. After a visit to the doctor, Filipe learned that he would need to undergo treatment for leukemia. Understandably terrified in the face of such a diagnosis, the Brazil-based Territory Manager leaned on the support of his Cisco co-workers to remain optimistic and strong during a difficult time.

"Hearing that your son has been diagnosed with leukemia is truly something that you cannot describe, and I was definitely scared," Flavio said. "You cannot prepare for this type of news. It felt like my world was turning upside down."

Despite the diagnosis of his son, Flavio would not let the surprising news deter his upbeat attitude and spirit. Over the next several months, Flavio not only dedicated himself to give love and attention to his son, but also continued to give his all at Cisco without losing hope, trust and his good-natured personality. With the amazing support of his friends and colleagues at Cisco, Flavio always had someone in his corner during a troubling period of his life.

"I received major support from the Cisco community, which was important for my mindset and how I approached my job at Cisco and family at home," Flavio said. "The support motivated me to believe that nothing bad would happen to my son and things would get better."

Flavio’s positive outlook would turn into a reality, as his son is now showing progress after going through a very dedicated medulla transplant.

"My faith in God was important, but my support from Cisco played an integral role in how I handled the situation with my son," said Flavio. "Receiving the type of support that I did was extremely important, and I’m very thankful."

With a passion for his family and community at Cisco, Flavio embodies what it means to go "Faster, Higher, Stronger" in an on-going effort to persevere through life’s obstacles. Flavio continues to thrive in the Cisco community, and his initial thoughts of worry were circumvented through the love and support from his colleagues.

"As I continued to get support from my Cisco colleagues, it never occurred to me that I would lose my son," said Flavio. "I always felt like the situation would get better and that he would be okay."

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