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Gateway for Cancer Research Celebrates 35 Years of Hope and Innovation at 2026 Cures Gala

Hugh Jackman, David Foster, and an all-star lineup of entertainers join philanthropists to advance groundbreaking cancer research, raising $3.5 million.

News provided by
Gateway for Cancer Research
October 20, 2026
1:02 pm
EDT
From left to right: Loren Allred, Richard J Stephenson, Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, Hugh Jackman, Katharine McPhee, David Foster, Daniel Emmet, Julie Falcon, and Sydnie Christmas / Source: Gateway for Cancer Research (EZ Newswire)
From left to right: Hugh Jackman, Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, and Richard J Stephenson / Source: Gateway for Cancer Research (EZ Newswire)

BARRINGTON HILLS, IL, October 20, 2026 (EZ Newswire) -- Gateway for Cancer Research, a nonprofit organization dedicated to transforming cancer care, hosted its 35th Annual Cures Gala on Saturday, Oct. 17, 2026, at a private residence in Barrington Hills, Illinois. Hosted by Gateway Founder and Chairman Richard J Stephenson and Vice-Chair Dr. Stacie J. Stephenson, the milestone event brought together philanthropists, researchers, advocates, and special guests for an evening celebrating the power of cancer research.

In celebration of its 35th anniversary, Gateway set a goal of raising $3.5 million and achieved it, helping advance promising Phase I and Phase II clinical trials and supporting the development of new cancer treatments.

The evening featured a lineup of entertainment, including Hugh Jackman, David Foster, Daniel Emmet, Loren Allred, Lee Greenwood, and Sydnie Christmas. Foster served as both emcee and musical director, leading an evening that celebrated Gateway’s 35-year commitment to funding clinical trials and expanding treatment possibilities for patients worldwide.

All ticket sales, sponsorships, and donations from the Cures Gala directly support Gateway’s mission, with an angel donor covering 100% of the evening’s expenses.

About Gateway for Cancer Research

Since its founding in 1991, Gateway for Cancer Research has raised more than $135 million and impacted more than 30,000 patients worldwide. The organization funds early-phase clinical trials that explore promising new approaches to cancer treatment, helping bring hopeful, life-changing therapies closer to the patients who need them most. Thanks to generous underwriting, 99 cents of every dollar received by Gateway directly funds Phase I and Phase II cancer clinical trials at leading research institutions across the country and abroad. For more information or to get involved, visit GatewayCR.org, follow Gateway for Cancer Research on Facebook at facebook.com/GatewayCancerResearch, on X at @GatewayforCR, and on Instagram at @GatewayforCR. Join the conversation using #BeAGateway.

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