LA JOLLA – Lots to cheer for at this thankful time of year.
First up, the Augie’s Quest Tradition of Hope Gala at Orange County’s Waldorf Astoria Monarch Beach.
Among the highlights: A performance from superstar John Ondrasik and Edward W. Cook III garnering the Founder’s Award.
Augie Nieto, a friend from the Claremont Colleges, founded Augie’s Quest, which has raised a staggering amount more than $200 million for ALS research. His life ended, but his phenomenal widow, Lynne, carries on the quest. Research is making many inroads for ALS treatment and care for other diseases like diabetes, too. Stay tuned!
Meanwhile, UC San Diego held a Breakfast with Champions event at the La Jolla Country Club to raise funds to annihilate prostate cancer. Dr. Christopher Kane was a featured speaker, as was four-time NFL Pro Bowl offensive lineman Ed White.
A key speaker was Dale Yahnke (another college friend), who spoke poignantly about his late friend.
“Brian McCloskey was diagnosed at the age of 50 with prostate cancer. He quickly became a patient advocate,” Yahnke said. “He immediately immersed himself in studying the disease and its genetics. He was a great family man and true inspiration for me as I began my own journey with prostate cancer four years ago.”
Dale and his wife Julie have generously donated to UCSD’s prostate cancer research. Bravo!
And cheers to the National Cheers Foundation for a seaside-themed gala at the Birch Aquarium, raising key funding for women’s health. Health is wealth!
On a personal note, La Jolla has lost a tremendously kind being: Peggy Melville Stern, an unofficial ambassador of kindness and joy. Condolences to the love of her life, Russell Stern, Cookie, and her family. Donations are welcome in Peggy’s name to the UCSD Moores Cancer Center.
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