Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson/Larry Fitzgerald/ Richard Stephenson ( w/ Leadership in Cancer Advocacy Award)
Gateway for Cancer Research celebrated Arizona Cardinals wide receiver, Larry Fitzgerald with the prestigious Leadership in Cancer Advocacy Award at the 4th annual Vino con Stelle, a signature fundraising event that raised $750,000 on Friday, April 23 at the Royal Palms Resort and Spa in Phoenix.
The non-profit dedicated to funding transformational cancer research hosted an event that featured performances by Pia Toscano, Loren Allred, Justin Guarini, and William Joseph. Leading physician and oncologist, Siddhartha Mukhergee, MD, served as a guest speaker. Since 1991, Gateway for Cancer Research (Gateway) has provided over $90 million in funding for more than 190 clinical trials at leading institutions worldwide, with 99 cents of every dollar raised benefitting cancer research. Global philanthropists Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, Vice-Chair, Gateway, and Richard J Stephenson, Gateway’s Founder and Chairman, served as hosts and honorary co-chairs for the event.
Amanda and Dana Garmany, Niki and Mark Tarbell
Multiple Emmy Award-Winning journalist Tara Hitchcock emceed the event, and Yve Rojas served as the night’s auctioneer, presiding overbidding for one-of-a-kind experiences, including Tarbell’s Elite Collector’s Experience, Gateway With the Mondavis, and Robert Procop Exceptional Jewels.
Attendees of the evening included Alycia Mondavi, CEO and Co-Proprietor of Aloft and Dark Matter Wines; Iron Chef Mark Tarbell of Tarbell’s restaurant and Tarbell’s Wine Store; and event host committee members including Tracy Katz, Carrie Martz, Carey Pena, Jenna Repta, Molly Stockley, Kristine Thompson, Pat Bondurant, Christine Avanti Fischer, Jill Krigsten Riley, Shannon Barthelemy, Tawnya Bond, Mary Jo Grogan, and Char Hubble.
The global health crisis stopped the world in its tracks, delivering a double dose of complexity and heartache to cancer patients. This year, we are especially grateful to have the opportunity to safely gather to recognize and celebrate brave cancer fighters, the tireless researchers developing breakthrough treatments, and a steadfast ally in the fight against cancer, one of Arizona’s own, Larry Fitzgerald.
Larry has been a passionate breast cancer research advocate for decades and it was a privilege to honor his impact. His example is an inspiration to all of us. We are deeply grateful to all of our Gateway supporters who joined us in recognizing Larry at Vino con Stelle.
– Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, Vice Chair, Gateway for Cancer Research.
Larry Fitzgerald and Dr. Sid Muhkerjee
The Leadership in Cancer Advocacy Award is presented to individuals or organizations who have made outstanding efforts advocating on behalf of cancer patients, active in advancing treatments and cures for cancer or who have proven to be devoted supporters of Gateway for Cancer Research.
Gateway is one of the very few organizations focusing on early-stage cancer research, and 99 cents of every dollar we raise goes straight back to the cause, helping to accelerate practice-changing discoveries by harnessing the unrelenting passion of the cancer research community and empowering patients to triumph over their disease.
– Michael Burton, President and CEO, Gateway for Cancer Research.
All event guests received exclusive access to the Vino con Stelle Wine Club, supported by Gateway for Cancer Research partner, Tarbell’s Wine Store.
