GW Celebrates Life, Resilience at Annual Cancer Gala

A slate of formidable figures in the cancer community, committed principal benefactors and a fabulous venue have come together to make the Third Annual GW Cancer Institute Gala a memorable event for the 2006 season. The evening’s benefactors for the April 7 Gala at the Mellon Auditorium in downtown Washington, DC, are Dr. and Mrs. Cyrus Katzen and Dr. and Mrs. Bernard Katzen.

“This year’s honorees exemplify our Gala theme of facing cancer together. They represent, both individually and collectively, the best in our community who are trying to make a difference in the outcomes of this disease. They are also a reflection of the goals of the GW Cancer Institute to provide an interdisciplinary approach to solving the puzzle of cancer, and bringing the answers to all members of our community,” said GW Provost and VPHA Dr. John F. Williams.

Sam Donaldson Spirit of Life Award Recipient

This year’s recipient of the “Spirit of Life” award is ABC correspondent Sam Donaldson, a melanoma cancer survivor. This award is given to an individual whose survival story inspires courage and imparts hope to others fighting cancer.

Cancer Advocacy Award Recipient

The American Cancer Society (ACS) is being honored this year in the “Cancer Advocacy” category, recognizing its exemplary leadership in advancing cancer healthcare through support of research, education, philanthropy and patient advocacy.

Dr. LaSalle D. Leffall Jr. Distinguished Public Service Award Recipient

In the “Distinguished Public Service” category, this year’s recipient is Dr. LaSalle D. Leffall Jr. Dr. Leffall is the Charles E. Drew Professor of Surgery at Howard University College of Medicine and chairman of the Board of the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation. He is being honored for his public leadership in cancer healthcare and public policy.

Cancer Compassion Award Recipient

Nueva Vida is receiving the Gala’s “Cancer Compassion Award.” Founded by a group of Latina breast cancer survivors and health professionals, Nueva Vida has delivered support services to more than 1,000 Latina cancer patients. Nueva Vida strives to inform, support and empower Latinas whose lives are affected by cancer, and to advocate for and facilitate the timely access to state-of-the-art cancer care, including screening, diagnosis, treatment and care for all Latinas.

All proceeds from the black-tie event and silent auction benefit the GW Cancer Institute—an urban oncology center dedicated to understanding cancer disparities. More information is available at www.gwcancerinstitute.org.