On Tuesday, Nov. 17, 2015, Chef Michael Ferraro of New York’s Delicatessen hosted a sold out fundraising dinner benefiting the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network.

Together with Chef Francois Payard of Francois Payard Patisserie and Chef Julian Medina of Toloache, Chef Ferraro prepared an intimate, five-course dinner with selected wine pairings for 40 guests.

Each course featured a family inspired recipe, including tuna tostadas, beef tortellini, halibut tikin, braised veal cheeks and chocolate dome cake.

Guests also enjoyed a special performance from Foodie Magician, Josh Beckerman.

Ten years ago, Chef Ferraro’s mother was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer – a disease with a five-year survival rate of only seven percent. Two years ago, she lost her battle with the disease.

In 2014, Ferraro partnered with the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network, Celgene and Meals to Heal, to address the nutritional needs and challenges faced by pancreatic cancer patients and caregivers.

The educational program, known as Cooking. Comfort. Care. Nourishment for the Pancreatic Cancer Fight, offered a series of videos that focused on the nutritional issues faced by people with pancreatic cancer and included demonstrations of easy-to-prepare, delicious and nutritious recipes perfect for the holidays.