The annual Waxman Luncheon, held on May 17, 2023, at AVRA Madison in New York, proved to be a remarkable event that showcased both philanthropy and the spirit of scientific advancement. The luncheon, organized to benefit the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF), celebrated the contributions of Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank and raised an impressive sum of over $165,000. These funds will play a crucial role in supporting the SWCRF’s groundbreaking initiatives such as the International Network on Aging and Cancer Research and the Women’s Cancer Research Program.
One of the highlights of the Waxman Luncheon was a captivating live fashion presentation by Max Mara, featuring their stunning Spring/Summer 2023 Collection. The fusion of fashion and philanthropy added a unique touch to the event, creating an atmosphere of elegance and support for the cause. Generous donations from renowned companies including Chopard, Movado, Jimmy Choo, Schiaparelli, Fendi, Arlotta Cashmere and The Baker House 1650 enriched the live auction, silent auction and raffle, making it a truly memorable experience for the attendees. Heritage Auctions served as the official auctioneer, bringing their expertise to the event.
The Waxman Luncheon drew a notable crowd, including prominent figures such as Dr. Samuel Waxman and Marion Waxman, the honoree Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, Jani Aronow Gerard, Danny Miller, Dr. Lorraine Gudas, Helen Vaysman, Nancy Litman, Lauren Silvers, Erica Linden-Fineberg, Kobi Halperin, Susan Gutfreund, Ingeborg Rennert, Ramona Singer, William Brobston, Jean Shafiroff, Ingeborg Rennert, Ariella Wertheimer, Consuelo Vanderbilt Costin, Maribel Lieberman and Larry Scott. Their presence demonstrated the widespread support and commitment to the SWCRF’s mission.
Behind the scenes, the Waxman Luncheon Committee, consisting of dedicated individuals such as Karen Amster-Young, Chris Arlotta, Karen Giberson, Sarah Irby, Orital Karelic, Dina Koutroumanis, Norah Lawlor, Pamela Morgan, Deanna Passarelli, Jaq Poussot, Lorri Scott, Barbara Warren, Bettina Waxman and Andrea Wernick, worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the event. Their efforts, combined with the generous contributions from sponsors and attendees, played a pivotal role in advancing cancer research and fostering collaborative efforts.
The SWCRF, established in 1976, has been at the forefront of cancer research for over four decades, investing more than $100 million in collaborative research efforts worldwide. This philosophy of collaboration has yielded remarkable breakthroughs, including the development of a treatment for acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL) in collaboration with researchers at the Shanghai Institute of Hematology. This groundbreaking treatment has significantly improved the survival rate for APL patients, elevating it from an 80% fatality rate to an astounding 95%. Furthermore, recent research funded by the SWCRF has led to the FDA approval of a medication that targets the KRAS protein, reducing lung cancer tumors by up to 50%.
The Waxman Luncheon stands as a testament to the power of collective action in the fight against cancer. Through the support and dedication of individuals, organizations, and the scientific community, the SWCRF continues to drive innovation, make transformative discoveries, and improve the lives of countless individuals affected by cancer. As we look to the future, events like the Waxman Luncheon inspire hope, showcasing the profound impact that philanthropy and scientific advancements can have in shaping a world free from the burden of cancer.
For more information, visit www.waxmancancer.org
