An Evening with the Stars Gala

The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network thanks all of our generous guests for attending and being a part of a very special evening. Over 500 supporters gathered at the beautiful Beverly Wilshire Four Seasons Hotel in Beverly Hills, California, on October 17, 2009, for the memorable 12th Annual an Evening with the Stars gala.

During the evening, 11 exceptional women who have all made their own special contributions to the effort to defeat pancreatic cancer were recognized. The nine members of the Stand Up To Cancer Executive Leadership Council (Katie Couric, Noreen Fraser, Sherry Lansing, Kathleen Lobb, Lisa Paulsen, Rusty Robertson, Sue Schwartz, Ellen Ziffren and Laura Ziskin) received the Spirit of Hope Award. Emmy Award-winning actress Dana Delany was presented with the Shining Star Award. In addition, renowned New York-area philanthropist Betsy Hilfiger received the Emily Couric Public Service Award. Two of the Stand Up To Cancer honorees, Lisa Paulsen and Kathleen Lobb, graciously accepted the award on behalf of the Stand Up To Cancer Executive Leadership Team. While giving their acceptance speech, they spoke eloquently about Patrick Swayze and his widow, Lisa Niemi. Then, to the surprise of everyone, Lisa Niemi came on stage, and Lisa Paulsen and Kathleen Lobb presented Lisa Niemi with their award to honor the valiant fight Patrick Swayze fought against pancreatic cancer. It was a beautiful and moving moment. Lisa Niemi spoke passionately and emotionally about the need to raise awareness and research dollars for pancreatic cancer and the unrelenting fight her husband gave against the disease that eventually took his life. The Pancreatic Cancer Action Network is so very grateful to Lisa Niemi for gracing our gala with her presence during such a difficult time for her and her family.

All funds generated from this year’s gala will support the RAISE THE CURE campaign and the robust research portfolio that it represents.

If you attended the gala and would like to view and/or purchase photos from the event, click here. www.mathewimaging.com.