Kristen Ann Carr Fund Raises Over $600,000 at Annual Gala, Announcing New Fellowship Programs and Initiatives
Featuring a Performance by Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem, The Event Honored Sarcoma Survivor Jeff Gendel and Wife Wendy Klein Gendel
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NEW YORK, Nov. 22, 2024 — The Kristen Ann Carr Fund (KACF) — dedicated to advancing sarcoma research, improving cancer patient care and educating physicians — hosted its annual fundraiser, A Night to Remember, raising over $600,000. The event celebrated Jeff Gendel, KACF’s first-ever sarcoma survivor honoree, and his wife Wendy Klein Gendel — and unveiled a series of impactful initiatives, including the establishment of its third endowed fellowship in Adult Medical Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK). The evening, held at Drew Nieporent’s Tribeca Grill for the 19th consecutive year, also featured a special acoustic performance by Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem, followed by a set from New Jersey-based funk and soul band JO & the Highland Express.
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For 31 years, A Night to Remember has been a signature event — featuring honorees, live music and a premium auction. This year, the Gendels were honored for their dedication to KACF’s mission. Jeff Gendel, diagnosed with sarcoma in 2018, and his wife Wendy Gendel have actively supported the organization’s efforts to enhance sarcoma treatment and research.
“This is a truly awesome honor for us,” said Jeff and Wendy Gendel. “We wouldn’t be here today without KACF, its donors, our medical team and the unwavering support of our family and friends.”
“We are honored to recognize Wendy and Jeff Gendel for their extraordinary contributions,” said Barbara Carr, co-founder of KACF. “Their story of survival and dedication highlights the progress we’ve made and the work still needed to combat this devastating disease.”
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Event Highlights and Auction Success
Over $100,000 was raised through auction items, including a Bruce Springsteen-signed Telecaster guitar that fetched nearly $25,000. Springsteen has been a steadfast supporter of KACF since its inception in 1993, following the passing of Kristen Ann Carr, and headlined its inaugural benefit concert at Madison Square Garden. There is an additional on-line auction live now through Dec. 5 at Charitybuzz.com/KACF featuring VIP tickets to Jingle Ball and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, NASCAR garage passes and more — including autographed memorabilia from Springsteen, Brett Michaels and Aaron Judge, among others.
New Fellowship at Memorial Sloan Kettering Announced
KACF introduced its third endowed fellowship, the Adult Medical Oncology Fellowship, to complement its longstanding Pediatric Surgical and Medical Oncology Fellowships. These programs have trained over 40 fellows, creating a nationwide network of specialists treating sarcoma and other rare cancers.
Dr. Olayode Babatunde has been selected as the inaugural Adult Medical Oncology Fellow. “My goal is to become a clinician-scientist focusing on sarcoma and rare malignancies, utilizing emerging technologies to improve patient care,” he said.
KACF also welcomed the new fellows for 2024-2025, Dr. Andrew Hanna (Surgical Oncology) and Dr. Vanja Cabria (Pediatric Medical Oncology).
New Music Therapy Programs
This year, KACF partnered with Musicians On Call to establish the Kristen Ann Carr Bedside Program at MSK, bringing live music to cancer patients. Additionally, the annual Kristen Ann Carr Virtual Program was launched, ensuring patients nationwide can experience uplifting musical performances.
For more information about the Kristen Ann Carr Fund and its initiatives, visit kristenanncarrfund.org.
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ABOUT THE KRISTEN ANN CARR FUND
The Kristen Ann Carr Fund provides grants for cancer research and seeks to improve all aspects of cancer patient life with an emphasis on adolescents and young adults. The Kristen Ann Carr Fund honors the life of Kristen Ann Carr (1971-1993), a remarkable young woman who sought life and love. Established at Kristen's request, The Fund continues in her spirit and convictions in its efforts. Learn more at kristenanncarrfund.org.
For more information, please contact rshapiro@shorefire.com.