2024 Event Recap
On Saturday, September 7th, 2024, the Humor to Fight the Tumor Foundation hosted its 21st annual gala, a memorable evening filled with entertainment and inspiration. Our 650 gala attendees and donors helped us to raise over over $600,000 to fund research and patient services in the battle against brain tumors.The event featured live and silent auctions, a wine wall, engaging games, and a captivating performance by magician Matt Dunn. A highlight of the night was a moving video showcasing stories of hope and resilience, shared by our esteemed honorees: Giorgio Guglielmino, Sarah Jacobson, Lisa Kirkbride, and Barb Widmer.
Watch the 2024 Honoree Video
Honorees
GIORGIO GUGLIELMINO
Shortly before Thanksgiving 2022, Giorgio, a healthy 4-year-old, was diagnosed with atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (ATRT), a rare and aggressive cancer. Over nine months, he bravely underwent brain surgery, high-dose chemo, stem cell transplants, and radiation, all while smiling and making new friends along the way. He is extremely resilient and quickly bounces back after each treatment and procedure. He is always happy and loves life.
SARAH JACOBSON
I have been with Todd Fransen, my significant other for 10 years, since my diagnosis in December 2018. He supported me through a second craniotomy in October 2019 and 28 days of radiation and 12 months of chemotherapy in 2021. This journey has brought God into my life, teaching me to live differently, appreciate the moment, and value amazing people like those I've met through Pickleball, who have supported me selflessly.
LISA KIRKBRIDE
After Lisa's diagnosis of Adult Diffuse Midline Glioma
(DMG) in August 2022, joy and euphoria stuck in her mind. Doctors labeled it a "life-limiting'' diagnosis with no cure. Connecting with Joelle at Humor to Fight the Tumor offered hope. Since then, Lisa finds joy daily, whether working, with family, painting with her radiation mask, traveling, or advocating for others with this rare diagnosis.
BARB WIDMER
In April 2020, at 63, I was diagnosed with Grade 4 Glioblastoma after experiencing neurological symptoms. Despite this new reality, I'm grateful to be here. My husband Denny, my rock, and my family-3 children, 5 grandchildren, 4 siblings, my mother, and many relatives and friends-support me endlessly. I prayed to see my oldest grandson graduate, and that dream is coming true in a few weeks. I believe in prayer and setting mini goals!