CHICAGO, Oct. 24, 2018 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ -- Gateway for Cancer Research (Gateway), a nonprofit organization dedicated to transformational cancer research, raised $4.1 million at its annual Cures Gala, "The Greatest Gateway." Inspired by the Oscar-nominated film, "The Greatest Showman," the event was held on October 20 in Chicago and featured a night of unparalleled entertainment "under the big top."
The star-studded event, emceed by actress and comedian Melissa Peterman, was presented and sponsored by Gateway for Cancer Research; Richard J Stephenson, Founder and Chairman of Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA) and Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, CTCA Chair of Functional Medicine and Director of the Gateway Board.
"The Greatest Gateway" showcased breakthrough clinical cancer trials funded by Gateway, including a video presentation by Nathan Robison, MD, pediatric hematologist-oncologist at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles and his patient, Peighton Bailey. Dr. Robison is currently conducting a clinical trial on low-grade gliomas and genetic mutations in childhood cancer. Using precision medicine, this multi-institutional trial studies the effects of MEK162, an inhibitor in tumor growth pathways. Peighton and her mother, Jennifer, shared her inspiring story, including the success of MEK162 in helping to shrink Peighton's tumor and her dream to someday become a doctor and help other children facing cancer.
Since its founding in 1991, Gateway for Cancer Research has funded more than 150 patient-focused clinical trials at renowned institutions worldwide. Proceeds from the event will support crucial Phase I and Phase II patient trials across all cancer types, including breast, blood, lung, brain, pancreatic and pediatric cancers.
More than 750 guests at the event were treated to a Broadway-style performance by "American's Got Talent" finalist, 11-year-old Angelica Hale; recording artist Fernando Varela; "The Book of Mormon's" Jonathan Cullen; "America's Got Talent" finalist and Canadian Songwriters Award winner for Best Adult Contemporary/Pop Song 2018, Stacey Kay; The London Essentials and Pia Toscano, "American Idol" finalist and star of the new Netflix series "Westside." Pianist, recording artist and composer William Joseph also performed with international virtuoso violinist Caroline Campbell. R&B music legend Brian McKnight delivered a memorable performance before Montreal Rhapsody Orchestra drew the night to an end with a show-stopping finale.
ABOUT GATEWAY FOR CANCER RESEARCH
Gateway for Cancer Research℠ is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to funding innovative cancer research that helps people living with cancer to feel better, live longer and conquer cancer TODAY! Thanks to generous underwriting, 99 cents of every dollar Gateway receives directly funds Phase I and Phase II cancer clinical trials at leading research institutions across the country and abroad. Since 1991, Gateway has supported more than 150 clinical trials and funded over $75 million in breakthrough cancer research. Get involved today by visiting http://www.GatewayCR.org, like us on Facebook at facebook.com/demandcures and join the conversation at @DemandCures, #BeAGateway, #TheGreatestGateway.
SOURCE Gateway for Cancer Research
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