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Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson and Richard J Stephenson, chairman and vice-chair of Gateway for Cancer Research, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization committed to funding innovative Phase I and Phase II cancer clinical trials, hosted Arizona’s premier fundraising event of the season, Gateway Celebrity Fight Night, on Saturday, March 21, at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess in Scottsdale, Arizona. The evening showcased the vibrant energy and dedication of the community coming together for a shared mission: to champion groundbreaking cancer research and highlight the importance of early-phase clinical trials in transforming patient care.
This year’s Gateway Celebrity Fight Night drew entertainers, musicians, philanthropists, and leading medical experts to raise critical funds for early-phase cancer clinical trials, an area often overlooked and underfunded yet essential to advancing the most promising new cancer drugs and therapies.
Bryan Adams, a Grammy Award-winning singer and global rock icon, headlined the event with a dynamic private rock concert and featured renowned 16-time Grammy Award-winning producer David Foster, whose longstanding role as musical director continues to shape the event’s signature sound. The evening was emceed by cancer survivor, actor, and Broadway star Erich Bergen ("Love Story," "Madam Secretary"), whose humor charmed and energized the room, along with powerhouse R&B vocalist Sheléa, and captivating jazz singer Brenna Whitaker, each delivering unforgettable performances that elevated the night’s celebration.
Guests were also introduced to the powerful story of James “Chris” Kirk, a patient impacted by a Gateway-funded clinical trial after being diagnosed with stage 4 pancreatic cancer and a rare FGFR mutation found in only 1% of patients.
Chris is under the care of Dr. Sameek Roychowdhury, a renowned physician at The Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center and head of Gateway for Cancer Research’s Scientific Peer Review. Dr. Roychowdhury is leading an innovative Phase II study that uses telemedicine to deliver pemigatinib to pancreatic cancer patients with FGFR gene alterations. This approach allows patients like Chris to receive groundbreaking treatment from home, with medications shipped and labs handled locally. Early results show promising patient outcomes, giving Chris a renewed sense of hope and more time with his family.
“Gateway for Cancer Research is at the cutting edge of early-phase discovery, where bold ideas are transformed into life-changing possibilities,” shared the evening’s host, Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, an integrative health expert and bestselling author. “Every breakthrough begins with courageous patients, visionary researchers, and a community of supporters who believe in what’s possible. Together, we are accelerating progress and bringing new hope to those who need it most.”
“Gateway for Cancer Research continues to demonstrate what is possible when purpose and generosity come together,” said Gateway’s founder, Richard J Stephenson. “We are deeply grateful for the extraordinary support of our donors and partners, whose commitment allows us to fund innovative research that has the potential to save lives.”
The black-tie event featured a cocktail reception, elegant dinner, and an exciting live auction, including a one-of-a-kind sapphire and diamond ring, and a brand-new 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser donated by Valley Toyota Dealers.
About Gateway for Cancer Research
Founded in 1991, Gateway for Cancer Research is one of the only nonprofits solely dedicated to funding Phase I and II clinical trials for cancers of all types, urgently bringing breakthroughs to the bedside for courageous patients and their families. For more information, visit www.gatewaycr.org.
About Gateway Celebrity Fight Night
Gateway Celebrity Fight Night helps to advance cancer research by raising money to fund early phase clinical trials that can meaningfully improve patient outcomes. Gateway is dedicated to ensuring that 100% of all proceeds and donations directly fund cancer research. For more information, visit celebrityfightnight.org.
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