June is National Cancer Survivor Month, and what better way to honor survivors than a celebration of hope?
The V Foundation for Cancer Research, a local cancer research charity, will celebrate its 30th Anniversary Gala on June 3. Founded by the legendary NC State Men’s basketball coach Jim Valvano, the organization has awarded over $310 million to fund cutting-edge cancer research over the years. This special night will pay homage to the history of the V Foundation, the hope that it brings to millions, and its connection with NC State.
“We are thrilled to celebrate the impact of the V Foundation at home in North Carolina and uplift Jim’s legacy as a game-changing champion for cancer research,” said V Foundation CEO Shane Jacobson. “While we have made strides in preventative screenings, early detection methods and new treatments, we still have more work to do. Cancer is overwhelming, but with a community of fighters and supporters, we are determined to conquer it.”
The event will be co-hosted by former WRAL sports reporter/anchor Jeff Gravley, a 1985 Wolfpack graduate, and ESPN’s Jay Harris.
“I am so excited to host the monumental 30th anniversary celebration of the V Foundation,” said Gravley. “What better place to have it than at Valvano arena at Reynolds Coliseum — the place Coach Valvano and the ‘Cardiac Pack’ started their run in 1983. We will think, we will laugh, and we will cry at an event to remember.”
The weekend will begin with a welcome reception for guests to enjoy on Friday, June 2, at the StateView Hotel. On Saturday, the gala will feature a cocktail reception, followed by a wine-pairing dinner. Throughout the evening, attendees will enjoy appearances from members of the 1983 Championship NC State men’s basketball team and speakers from the V Foundation’s past and present. Speakers will share stories about the organization and how it has grown in its mission to fund the best and the brightest scientists and play an essential role in accelerating critical cancer research. Additionally, Thurl Bailey, NC State 1983 team member and acclaimed singer and songwriter, will give an inspirational musical performance.
Attendees will have the opportunity to further support the foundation through a live auction and Fund-A-Need dedicated to therapeutic resistance research. Resistance to therapy, also referred to as drug resistance, is one of the most challenging issues facing cancer patients, researchers, and clinicians alike.
This gala presents the perfect opportunity to come together to honor survivors and achieve victory over cancer.
For more information, or to purchase tickets for the event, visit V.ORG/30YEARS.
