Moffitt’s Magnolia Ball Raises More Than $8 Million for Cancer Research
TAMPA, Fla. — The 30th annual Magnolia Ball drew more than 900 guests and raised more than $8 million for research at Moffitt Cancer Center.
Over the past 30 years, this signature event has raised more than $50 million to help Moffitt develop groundbreaking and advanced treatments that improve outcomes for cancer patients.
Longtime Moffitt supporters Carol and Frank Morsani made a lead gift during the “Rise to the Challenge” portion of the gala, followed by more than 100 others who also offered donations. Pamela Mars Wright and Mark Ricks generously matched all gifts, doubling the impact for cancer research.
During the ball on Saturday at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street, the crowd heard from several speakers, including founder H. Lee Moffitt, president and CEO Patrick Hwu, M.D., and patient Bob Snedeker.
When Snedeker was diagnosed with B-cell lymphoma, he was told to prepare his goodbyes. After six rounds of chemotherapy, he received a second opinion from Moffitt hematologist Julio Chavez, M.D., and enrolled in a lifesaving CAR T-cell therapy clinical trial.
Guests at the gala, chaired by the Wanek family, got the opportunity to bid on items in live and silent auctions. The party continued with a live performance by the Grammy-winning country group Lady A.
“We are grateful and overwhelmed by the generosity of everyone who came to the Magnolia Ball to support advancements in immunotherapy, bioengineering, prevention, early detection, cancer vaccines and more,” said Maria Muller, president of Moffitt’s Foundation.
About Moffitt Cancer Center
Moffitt is dedicated to one lifesaving mission: to contribute to the prevention and cure of cancer. The Tampa-based facility is one of only 57 National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers, a distinction that recognizes Moffitt’s scientific excellence, multidisciplinary research, and robust training and education. Moffitt’s expert nursing staff is recognized by the American Nurses Credentialing Center with Magnet® status, its highest distinction. For more information, call 1-888-MOFFITT (1-888-663-3488), visit MOFFITT.org, and follow the momentum on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.
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