Some of the best news in cancer medicine this week didn’t come from a giant trial or a famous drug. It came from a late-breaking session in Montreal, where Danish biotech Genmab presented results that could change the outlook for one of the hardest cancers to treat.
The drug is called rinatabart sesutecan — Rina-S for short. In Part C of the Phase 1/2 RAINFOL-01 trial, among 109 patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer, Rina-S achieved a confirmed objective response rate of 45.9%. Five patients had complete responses — no detectable cancer. The median duration of response was 12.1 months, with 51% of responders still responding at one year. The findings were presented at the International Gynecologic Cancer Society’s 2026 congress.
To understand why that matters, you need to know the audience. Platinum-resistant ovarian cancer means the cancer came back after — or despite — the standard platinum chemotherapy that is the backbone of treatment. Each relapse narrows the options. These were heavily pretreated patients running out of road. A 46% response rate in that population isn’t just good. It’s the kind of number that makes a room of oncologists go quiet.
What makes Rina-S different
Rina-S is an antibody-drug conjugate — essentially a guided missile. It combines an antibody that seeks out folate receptor alpha (FRα), a protein found on many ovarian cancer cells, with a topoisomerase I inhibitor payload that kills the cell once the drug is inside. The elegant part: it worked regardless of FRα expression levels. Patients with low expression — and even those whose tumors didn’t express the protein at all — saw antitumor activity. It also worked in patients who had already received mirvetuximab, the existing FRα-targeted therapy.
That breadth matters enormously. If a drug only helps patients with a specific biomarker profile, its reach is limited by testing and eligibility. A drug that works across the board changes the calculation for far more women.
It also says something about where cancer medicine is heading. Antibody-drug conjugates are having a moment across oncology because the concept is so clean: chemotherapy is powerful but indiscriminate, and ADCs give it a mailing address. Instead of flooding the body with poison and hoping the tumor gets the worst of it, you attach the poison to an antibody that delivers it straight to the cancer cell. Rina-S is one of the more promising examples of that idea working in a disease that badly needed one.
Elizabeth K. Lee, a study investigator and gynecologic oncologist at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, put it plainly: “Platinum-resistant ovarian cancer is a difficult-to-treat disease. As patients relapse and progress through successive lines of therapy, achieving durable clinical benefit becomes increasingly challenging, yet remains critically important.” She called the antitumor activity and durability “encouraging” — which, in oncologist-speak, is genuine excitement.
A good week for ovarian cancer research
Rina-S wasn’t the only promising headline out of the IGCS meeting. Separately, Agenus reported three-year follow-up data on its botensilimab-plus-balstilimab combination in recurrent ovarian cancer: an estimated 48% three-year survival rate, unchanged from the two-year mark, in a population where nearly three-quarters had platinum-resistant or refractory disease. A quarter of treated patients were alive and off all therapy at last follow-up.
Two very different approaches — a targeted drug conjugate and an immunotherapy combo — both showing durable benefit in the same disease, at the same meeting. That’s not a coincidence of timing. It’s a signal that ovarian cancer, long one of the most stubborn targets in oncology, is starting to yield — and 2026 is quietly becoming a hopeful year across medicine, from Alzheimer’s onward.
The road ahead
A few words of caution, because they matter. Rina-S is still investigational. These are Phase 1/2 results, and regulators will want to see larger confirmatory trials before approval. Side effects and long-term safety need the same careful scrutiny as the efficacy numbers. And ovarian cancer remains a brutal disease — promising trial results are not yet a cure.
But direction matters. A decade ago, a patient with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer had almost nothing to hope for. Now she has an expanding list: targeted conjugates, immunotherapy combos, and diagnostic advances like the breast-milk ctDNA test being developed to catch breast cancer earlier.
Takeaways
The hardest cancers are the right targets. Platinum-resistant ovarian cancer is one of oncology’s toughest rooms, and that’s exactly where the most meaningful wins happen.
Watch for the Phase 3. Rina-S will need confirmatory trials, but a 45.9% response rate with complete responses in this population is the kind of signal that gets fast-tracked.
Talk to your doctor, not the internet. If you or someone you love faces ovarian cancer, trial data like this is worth discussing with an oncologist — who can tell you what investigational options exist right now, not years from now.
Ovarian cancer takes roughly 200,000 lives worldwide every year. Numbers like 45.9% are how that toll starts to shrink — one late-breaking presentation at a time.
Some of the most promising medical ideas hide in plain sight. Researchers at the University of Manchester think one of the best early-warning systems for breast cancer may be something produced by the breast itself: breast milk. A team led by Dr. Niki Flaum, a consultant oncologist at the Christie NHS Foundation Trust, is investigating whether fragments of circulating tumor DNA found in breast milk could reveal the disease earlier than a blood test or a scan. The work, reported by the Press Association on Oct. 3, opens a door that scientists say has been ignored for far too long.
“We know surprisingly little about the genetic changes to breast milk, as this bio-fluid has been remarkably under-researched until now,” Flaum said. She is blunt about the need: “There is an urgent need to find better, more reliable ways to detect breast cancer in women during and after pregnancy.”
A dangerous blind spot
Here is the paradox the Manchester team is trying to solve. Breastfeeding is linked to a lower lifetime risk of breast cancer, which is genuinely good news. But during pregnancy and in the months after giving birth, a woman’s risk is actually higher, and that is exactly when detection is hardest. Breast imaging during pregnancy and lactation is often unreliable because the tissue changes so much. The result is that pregnancy-associated breast cancer is more likely to be diagnosed at a later stage, after it has already spread, and survival outcomes are significantly worse than for women of the same age who have not recently given birth.
The numbers sharpen the point. Pregnancy-related breast cancer is thought to affect roughly one in 3,000 pregnancies, but the risk can climb as high as one in 50 for women carrying a faulty BRCA gene. Breast cancer remains the most common cause of cancer-related death among women aged 35 to 64 in the UK. For younger women with inherited genetic faults, a reliable screening tool during those years would be life-changing.
What the science already suggests
Flaum’s team is not starting from zero. Published research on breast milk as a source of tumor DNA has already shown striking results: in one study, researchers identified circulating tumor DNA in the affected breast of every evaluable breast cancer patient they tested, and none in the unaffected breast. More remarkable still, two patients had frozen breast milk samples from an earlier pregnancy. In one case, a sample collected 18 months before the woman’s diagnosis carried the same cancer-linked mutation found in her tumor. In another, a mutation appeared in breast milk at earlier time points while ultrasound did not find the tumor until the 17th month after childbirth.
The researchers’ conclusion was bold: breast milk appears to be a superior source of tumor DNA compared with blood plasma for early-stage breast cancer, and it could be adapted for early detection “in a setting compatible with routine clinical practice.” That phrase matters. A screening method only helps if women can actually use it, and a non-invasive sample collected at home clears a bar that mammograms and biopsies cannot.
Where it goes from here
Flaum is careful about the timeline. Her team first needs reliable methods for detecting cancer-related DNA in breast milk, and only then can future research test whether the approach works as a screening tool for women with breast cancer or those at high risk. This is early-stage science, and early-stage science sometimes disappoints. But the direction of travel is unmistakable: medicine is getting better at finding cancer before it announces itself, from Biogen’s durable results for lupus skin disease to new research on boosting brain blood flow in people at risk of Alzheimer’s. Each of these studies chases the same prize: intervene earlier, and outcomes improve.
For women reading this today, the practical takeaway is straightforward, and it does not require waiting for a breakthrough. If you are pregnant, recently gave birth, or breastfeeding and you notice a lump, thickening, or change in your breast, get it checked promptly rather than assuming it is a pregnancy change. Push for follow-up if something feels wrong, because the hardest part of this disease in young mothers is delay, not biology. Knowing your family history and your genetic risk matters too. The Manchester research is about the future, but vigilance is the screening tool that already exists.
There is also a quieter point worth making. Women’s bodies have been under-researched in medicine for decades, and breast milk may be one of the most under-studied fluids of all. That a team in Manchester is now treating it as a window into what is happening inside the breast, in Flaum’s words, feels like a correction long overdue. If the science holds, a few milliliters of milk could one day do what a mammogram cannot: catch cancer in the women who are hardest to screen, at the moment when catching it matters most. That is a future worth rooting for.
The Waxman Luncheon 2026 Sets the Standard for Purpose and Style – Get Your Ticket NOW!
An elegant New York gathering unites philanthropy, fashion, and science to advance lifesaving cancer research. New York’s PR Powerwoman Noral Lawlor reps the Luncheon of the year: BEST GUESTLIST, BEST PROGRAM, BEST CAUSE and nowhere else does doing good feel better!
In the refined cadence of New York’s philanthropic calendar, certain gatherings carry a deeper resonance, extending far beyond their setting to shape conversations that matter. The 12th Annual Waxman Luncheon emerges as one such occasion, where purpose and elegance meet with unmistakable clarity. Scheduled for May 6, 2026, this highly anticipated event draws together a distinguished community committed to one of the most urgent causes of our time, advancing cancer research through collective action and support.
At Riverpark, a venue synonymous with understated sophistication and sweeping views, the afternoon unfolds with intention. From the moment guests arrive, there is a palpable sense that this is not merely a social engagement, but a meaningful convergence of individuals who understand the stakes. The Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging and Cancer stands at the heart of this gathering, anchoring the event in its mission to explore the intricate relationship between aging and cancer.
The Institute’s work reflects a forward-thinking approach that recognizes aging as the most significant risk factor in the development of cancer. This perspective has guided a new era of scientific exploration, one that seeks to bridge disciplines and foster collaboration across institutions. The luncheon serves as both a celebration of progress and a catalyst for continued discovery, ensuring that each contribution supports tangible advancements in prevention, detection, and treatment.
Philanthropy at this level carries a certain elegance, expressed not only through generosity but through intention. The Waxman Luncheon has cultivated a reputation for bringing together leaders from diverse spheres, including real estate, fashion, science, and advocacy. This blend of perspectives enriches the experience, creating a dynamic environment where ideas and commitments intersect.
The 2026 luncheon honors Mary Slattery and Alexandra Adame, two figures whose dedication to the cause reflects a broader commitment to meaningful impact. Their recognition underscores the importance of individual leadership within the collective effort to address cancer’s global reach. Their presence adds a layer of personal narrative to the event, reminding attendees that progress is driven by both institutional strength and individual conviction.
Fashion plays an integral role in shaping the identity of the luncheon, adding a dimension that speaks to creativity and cultural influence. Safiyaa’s involvement as the fashion presenter introduces a refined aesthetic that complements the event’s philanthropic purpose. The presentation is not merely a display of design, but an extension of the event’s ethos, where artistry supports advocacy in a seamless expression of modern luxury.
The setting at Riverpark enhances the experience, offering a space that feels both intimate and expansive. The design of the venue allows for natural movement and interaction, encouraging conversations that extend beyond formalities. It is within these exchanges that the true spirit of the luncheon emerges, as guests share insights, build connections, and reinforce their shared commitment.
Beneath the elegance lies a carefully structured program designed to maximize impact. Live and silent auctions provide opportunities for guests to contribute directly, transforming moments of engagement into measurable support for research initiatives. Each bid represents more than a transaction, it signifies a shared investment in the future of cancer treatment.
The Samuel Waxman Institute’s affiliation with The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research further strengthens its position within the global research community. This partnership reflects a commitment to collaboration at the highest level, ensuring that resources are directed toward projects with the greatest potential for breakthrough discoveries. The luncheon serves as a vital conduit for this work, translating awareness into action.
A Legacy of Scientific Commitment
The history of the Samuel Waxman Institute is rooted in decades of dedication to advancing cancer research. Building on the legacy of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, the Institute has supported more than 200 scientists worldwide, distributing over $120 million in funding since its inception. This sustained effort has created a foundation upon which new discoveries continue to emerge.
The Institute’s focus on aging biology represents a significant shift in how cancer is understood and addressed. By examining the processes that contribute to cellular aging, researchers are uncovering pathways that may lead to more effective interventions. This approach holds the promise of treatments that are both more precise and less invasive, improving outcomes for patients across diverse populations.
Events such as the Waxman Luncheon play a crucial role in sustaining this momentum. They provide not only financial support but also a platform for raising awareness about the Institute’s work. The visibility generated by the luncheon extends its impact beyond the immediate audience, reaching a broader community that can engage with and support the mission.
The leadership behind the event reflects a network of individuals deeply invested in its success. Event Chairs Marion N. Waxman, Susan Pernick, and Dina Koutroumanis guide the vision with clarity and purpose. Their leadership is complemented by Event Co-Chairs Erica Linden-Fineberg, Nancy Litman, and Helen Vaysman, along with a dedicated committee that includes Sandy Ackerman, Jessica DiPalma, Orital Karelic, Norah Lawlor, Lorri Scott, and Randi Schatz.
Each of these contributors brings a unique perspective, ensuring that the luncheon reflects a balance of tradition and innovation. Their collective efforts shape an experience that is both seamless and impactful, reinforcing the event’s position as a cornerstone of philanthropic engagement in New York.
Where Style and Substance Converge
The integration of fashion within the luncheon speaks to a broader understanding of influence. Style becomes a vehicle for storytelling, a way to engage audiences who may not traditionally intersect with scientific discourse. Safiyaa’s presentation exemplifies this approach, offering a visual narrative that aligns with the event’s purpose.
Guests experience a carefully curated environment where every detail contributes to the overall narrative. From the floral arrangements to the pacing of the program, the luncheon reflects a commitment to excellence that mirrors the standards of the Institute itself. This attention to detail ensures that the event resonates on multiple levels, leaving a lasting impression.
The presence of leaders from the fashion community adds a layer of cultural relevance, highlighting the role of creative industries in shaping public engagement. Their participation reinforces the idea that philanthropy can be both impactful and inspiring, bridging the gap between different spheres of influence.
As the afternoon progresses, the sense of unity among attendees becomes increasingly evident. Conversations shift from introductions to shared goals, reflecting a collective understanding of the importance of the cause. This transformation is one of the defining features of the Waxman Luncheon, turning a gathering into a movement.
The auction segments introduce moments of anticipation, drawing guests into the process of giving in a dynamic and engaging way. Each item represents an opportunity to contribute, with proceeds directly supporting research initiatives that have the potential to change lives.
A Future Defined by Innovation
Looking ahead, the significance of the Waxman Luncheon continues to grow. As research evolves and new challenges emerge, the need for sustained support becomes even more critical. The luncheon stands as a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together with a shared purpose.
The work of the Samuel Waxman Institute extends far beyond the confines of the event, influencing the trajectory of cancer research on a global scale. Its commitment to collaboration and innovation positions it at the forefront of efforts to understand and combat the disease.
The 2026 luncheon captures this momentum, offering a moment to reflect on progress while looking toward the future. It is an occasion defined by clarity of purpose, where every element contributes to a larger vision of improved health outcomes and expanded possibilities.
In this setting, philanthropy is not an abstract concept but a tangible force, expressed through action and engagement. The luncheon embodies this principle, transforming generosity into meaningful impact that extends far beyond the event itself.
As guests depart, the impression left by the afternoon lingers, not as a fleeting memory but as a reminder of what can be accomplished through collective effort. The Waxman Luncheon continues to set a standard for how events can unite elegance and purpose in service of a vital cause.
A Royal Evening at Cipriani: The Queen of Versailles Jackie Siegel Reigns Over the 2025 Angel Ball Alongside His Highness Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe
By H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe
Royal Flair: Jackie Siegel The Queen Of Versailles with Royal H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe live on Aspiring Magazine at Angel Ball 2025 by Denise Rich
The Queen of Versailles, Jackie Siegel, brought an unmistakable sense of grandeur and grace to the 2025 Angel Ball at Cipriani Wall Street. She personified regal glamour blended with heartfelt philanthropy, becoming the evening’s radiant centerpiece.
A Broadway producer whose productions feature leading star Kristin Chenoweth, a hospitality tycoon behind the Westgate Hotels and Timeshare empire, an award-winning coffee entrepreneur, and a tireless humanitarian visionary—Jackie Siegel shone as the embodiment of elegance and compassion. Her golden confidence, intricate couture, and magnetic warmth crowned her as the Best Dressed Woman of the Night, perfectly reflecting the Angel Ball’s enduring spirit of generosity and celebration.
A Royal Flair on the Red Carpet
The evening took a truly majestic turn when Jackie Siegel shared the spotlight with His Highness Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, the Global Peace Ambassador and author, who went live from the red carpet with Aspiring Magazine.
Jackie’s arrival sent a ripple through the marble halls as she greeted guests with her signature charm, attentiveness, and radiant smile. Recognized worldwide as both a philanthropist and a symbol of modern American royalty, she embodied the fusion of glamour and purpose. Her approach to luxury—as a means for good rather than excess—shone brightly throughout the evening.
Art, Royalty, and Vision
One of the night’s joyful highlights came when Jackie Siegel revealed her newest creative collaboration. Having attended Prince Mario-Max’s art opening of Paintings by Master Artist Roger Sichel at One Art Gallery Space, Tribeca, represented by PR icon Norah Lawlor, she unveiled a captivating secret: she had commissioned Roger Sichel to create a new art series inspired by the Prince Mario-Max Royal Legacy Collection. The exclusive project will debut soon—and, as the Prince noted with a smile, “I’m sure we’ll toast the occasion with her exquisite Queen of Versailles Coffee, sustainably grown in Guatemala.”
A Night of Purpose and Prestige
The Angel Ball, benefiting Gabrielle’s Angel Foundation for Cancer Research, was a deeply emotional and inspiring celebration. “Cancer research is an important cause,” stated H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe, whose father, H.H. Prince Waldemar zu Schaumburg-Lippe, is a cancer survivor. “By giving attention to this mission, we bring vital funding and awareness to the fight for cures.”
Hollywood Elegance Meets Royal Diplomacy
Hollywood was represented by the graceful Julianne Michelle, who attended directly from her latest film set. The actress, daughter of Count and Countess Di Palma, added noble charm and cinematic grace to the evening, merging the worlds of film and philanthropy with natural sophistication.
Art legend Hunt Slonem, celebrated for his vibrant depictions of bunnies, birds, and butterflies, also drew admiration. His announcement of an upcoming art series inspired by renewal and heritage echoed through the ballroom. “My godmother, Baroness Gabriele von Langendorff, was a dear friend of Hunt,” Prince Mario-Max reminisced. “I remember countless festive dinners with him at her Villa Riele on Long Island Sound and her legendary New Year’s Eve balls at The Pierre Hotel.”
Other remarkable talents included artist Ron Burkhardt, whose work is beloved by Elizabeth Segerstrom of South Coast Plaza, a close friend of the Prince.
Honoring the Human Spirit
The honorees—Amy Green, Tina Knowles, and Skye & Don Rufus Hankey—stood at the heart of the evening’s tributes. Introduced by Jackie Siegel with her trademark eloquence, the honorees’ recognition speeches captured compassion, vision, and excellence. Jackie’s heartfelt presentation from the podium was radiant, poised, and magnetic—proving why she remains one of the most beloved figures in both entertainment and philanthropy.
Peter Cervenka, a longtime friend of the Prince from their days in Kitzbühel and Carinthia, attended with his Austrian wife alongside Angel Ball founder Denise Rich, whose leadership continues to define this legendary gala.
The Grandeur of Giving
Throughout the evening, Jackie Siegel was the guiding light—a woman of purpose who turned grandeur into connection, greeting every guest with genuine warmth. Her success in hospitality and luxury ventures gives her a rare understanding of what it means to host with both heart and vision, and she brought that brilliance to Cipriani Wall Street.
By night’s end, the applause that echoed through the marble ballroom reflected not only admiration but unity—a collective belief in generosity and grace. The 2025 Angel Ball stood as a testament to what happens when art, royalty, Hollywood, and philanthropy meet in perfect harmony.
Guest List Highlights
Palm Beach leading Lady Lexye Aversa made a grand entrance and was immediately one of the balls most beloved guest.
Her fascinating live story and constant philanthropic and business achievements made her the favorite guest of the A list crowd. She even invited a select few to join her exclusive Holiday Cabaret luncheon in Palm Beach on December 17th where H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe will co-emcee her stunning event.
Amazing Patti LaBelle, host Denise Rich, Daniella Rich Kilstock, Ilona Rich Schachter, Gabrielle Rich Aouad, Amy Green, Skye Hankey, Don Rufus Hankey, Tina Knowles, Simone I. Smith, Lorraine Schwartz, Ofira Sandberg, Elizabeth Elting, Warren Lichtenstein, Gayle King, Ja Rule, Paul Russell, Michelle Williams, Star Jones, Jamie McDonald, Hunt Slonem, Ron Burkhardt, Julianne Michelle, Peter Cervenka, Norah Lawlor, and His Highness Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe.
About His Highness Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe
His Highness and Excellency Global Peace Ambassador Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe is a working royal, award-winning TV and event host, Bertelsmann Random House author, public speaker, and philanthropist.
He is the son of H.H. Dr.h.c. Prince Waldemar and H.H. Dr. Princess Antonia of Schaumburg-Lippe, and grandson of H.R.H. Princess Feodora of Denmark, representing the Royal Danish Nachod Line of the Princes of Schaumburg-Lippe, founding family of Hamburg, Lübeck, and Kiel.
Science and Celebration Unite at the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation Gala
A night of discovery, generosity, and global collaboration will illuminate New York as the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation hosts its 28th Annual Collaborating for a Cure fundraiser.
New Yorks PR Powerhouse Norah Lawlor has just informed us that on Wednesday, October 22, 2025, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation will mark a remarkable chapter in its legacy of scientific progress and philanthropy. AND we want your support! The 28th Annual Collaborating for a Cure event, themed A Celebration of Breakthroughs, will take place at Apella, located at 450 East 29th Street in New York City. From 6:30 to 9:30 in the evening, supporters, scientists, and leaders from across industries will gather in a shared mission: to accelerate the discovery of cancer cures through innovation and unity.
This year’s gala will carry special meaning as it not only celebrates nearly five decades of transformative research funding but also unveils the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging & Cancer. The newly established institute represents a pioneering effort in medical science, the first of its kind to study the intersection of aging and cancer in an integrated way. It embodies the Foundation’s enduring commitment to exploring new frontiers in cancer prevention and treatment by uniting brilliant minds across the globe.
All funds raised during the evening will be matched dollar-for-dollar through the Foundation’s partnership with The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research, effectively doubling the resources available to support groundbreaking scientific grants. The collaboration between these two organizations continues to expand the potential of translational research, ensuring that promising laboratory discoveries can evolve into real-world therapies faster than ever before.
The evening will also serve as a celebration of individuals whose contributions reflect the Foundation’s core values of leadership, compassion, and impact. Honorees include Jean Shafiroff, recognized as Philanthropist of the Year for her extensive charitable work and influence across numerous causes; Robert Wiener, Chairman Emeritus of Maxx Properties, also named Philanthropist of the Year for his longstanding commitment to philanthropy; and Dr. Jeffrey Settleman, Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Officer for Oncology Research and Development at Pfizer, who will receive the prestigious Breakthrough Science Award for his exceptional contributions to advancing cancer research.
Over nearly three decades, the Collaborating for a Cure fundraiser has become one of New York’s most inspiring philanthropic evenings. Known for blending elegance with purpose, the event draws a distinguished audience from the worlds of science, business, fashion, and entertainment. Guests will enjoy an exquisite seated dinner accompanied by a program that highlights the latest achievements of SWCRF-supported researchers, showcasing how collaboration continues to redefine what is possible in cancer prevention, diagnosis, and treatment.
The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation stands as a model of sustained scientific partnership. Since its founding in 1976, the organization has awarded more than $120 million to over 200 researchers worldwide. Central to its success is the Foundation’s signature model, the Institute Without Walls, which fosters open collaboration among global investigators, encouraging them to share data, techniques, and discoveries in real time. This approach has dramatically accelerated the pace at which cancer research progresses, bridging disciplines and national boundaries in the pursuit of cures.
At the heart of the Foundation’s philosophy is the understanding that collaboration fuels discovery. Through the decades, SWCRF has consistently sought to fund innovative science that identifies and corrects abnormal gene functions responsible for cancer while minimizing treatment toxicity for patients. The organization’s impact extends far beyond traditional grantmaking, cultivating a global community of scientists united by the belief that cooperation is essential to eradicating cancer.
As the evening unfolds at Apella, attendees will be reminded of the enduring power of partnership — between scientists and philanthropists, between institutions and individuals, and between innovation and compassion. The setting, overlooking the East River, offers a fitting backdrop for a night that honors visionaries shaping the future of medicine.
The celebration’s timing also highlights an important evolution in the Foundation’s journey. With the formal introduction of the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging & Cancer, the Foundation is ushering in a new era of scientific exploration. By bringing together researchers who specialize in both aging and oncology, this initiative seeks to understand how the biological processes of aging influence the development and progression of cancer. The insights generated through this work are expected to transform how scientists approach prevention strategies and therapeutic design for the years ahead.
The honorees each reflect the multidimensional spirit of the Foundation’s work. Jean Shafiroff, whose philanthropic reach spans healthcare, animal welfare, and education, continues to embody the intersection of generosity and advocacy. Robert Wiener’s influence as both a business leader and humanitarian reflects the vital role that private sector visionaries play in supporting life-changing research. Dr. Jeffrey Settleman’s leadership at Pfizer underscores how industry innovation and academic collaboration can work in concert to move science forward.
Each year, Collaborating for a Cure not only raises funds but also raises awareness of the profound impact that sustained scientific investment can achieve. The event’s atmosphere combines the refinement of a gala with the sense of urgency and optimism that accompanies groundbreaking research. Guests leave with a deeper understanding that progress in oncology is not measured solely in laboratory milestones but also in the lives extended and the families preserved through research-driven discovery.
The partnership between SWCRF and The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research serves as a model for modern philanthropy. By aligning missions and resources, these organizations demonstrate how cooperation between charitable and scientific entities can double the reach and impact of every contribution. Their shared vision ensures that funds raised in a single evening have the power to transform entire research portfolios and open new paths toward cancer cures.
Throughout the evening, attendees will have the opportunity to hear about recent advancements supported by SWCRF grants, each representing a step closer to transforming cancer from a life-threatening diagnosis into a manageable condition. From molecular insights into tumor resistance to precision therapies tailored to genetic profiles, the work funded by the Foundation exemplifies how sustained investment in science yields tangible hope.
As the 28th annual event approaches, anticipation builds among supporters who have witnessed the Foundation’s growth from a pioneering idea into a global force for scientific collaboration. The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation remains guided by its founder’s enduring belief that the cure for cancer will be discovered not by isolated efforts, but through collective determination and shared discovery.
For those wishing to join this celebration of progress and possibility, details and ticket information are available at www.waxmancancer.org/gala.
Dr. Samuel Waxman’s journey is defined by both scientific ambition and humanitarian vision. From his early days immersed in rigorous medical training to the founding of the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation and decades of global collaborations, his story is one of steady advancement toward the bold objective of eradicating cancer.
Born and raised in New York City, Samuel Waxman completed an undergraduate degree at Cornell University in 1957 and earned his M.D. at the State University of New York Downstate Medical Center in 1963. He then undertook residency and fellowship training at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, where he would forge his career as an oncologist and hematologist.
In subsequent years he joined the faculty of the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, rising to become the Zena and Michael A. Wiener Professor of Medicine (Cancer), Distinguished Service Professor of Medicine, Hematology and Medical Oncology, and Distinguished Service Professor of Oncological Sciences.
Even as the academic titles accumulated, Dr. Waxman’s attention stayed fixed on a key scientific frontier: the abnormal differentiation of cells that leads to leukemia and other cancers. He was among the first to champion “differentiation therapy” — a concept that instead of aiming merely to kill cancerous cells, seeks to restore them toward normal maturation.
In 1976, recognizing the critical need for flexible funding and cross‐institutional collaboration in cancer research, Dr. Waxman established the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation (SWCRF). The foundation was born out of a simple conversation with a donor who asked whether Dr. Waxman had ever thought of creating an organization to fund his work. From that moment, the foundation became his vehicle to marshal resources, build networks and drive research that crossed traditional institutional boundaries.
Under Dr. Waxman’s leadership the foundation adopted a philosophy he long held: science progresses fastest when investigators and laboratories with complementary strengths join forces. The SWCRF’s “Institute Without Walls” model embodies this by funding collaborations rather than isolated labs, enabling teams from North America, Europe and Asia to work in concert on cancer’s most intractable mysteries.
One of Dr. Waxman’s landmark achievements came in the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). Working with colleagues in China — notably at the Shanghai Institute of Hematology — he helped pioneer treatment regimens using all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide. These therapies transformed APL from a near-certain fatal disease into one with survival rates above 90 percent.
Beyond leukemia, Dr. Waxman continued to apply differentiation‐based strategies, investigating how to correct abnormal gene functions, target regulatory proteins and even explore nutritional factors in cancer cell biology. His work linked vitamins such as A, B12 and folic acid to DNA synthesis and gene regulation, thus bridging basic biochemistry with clinical oncology.
Over the course of his career Dr. Waxman has authored more than 300 scientific papers, written chapters in textbooks on hematology and chemotherapy, and published books such as Differentiation Therapy and The Leukemia Cell. As founder and scientific director of SWCRF, he has overseen funding of tens of millions of dollars and fostered a global network of cancer researchers.
Equally important is Dr. Waxman’s role as mentor, connector and visionary. He has convened international conferences on differentiation therapy, set up honorary professorships (including at Shanghai Jiao Tong University) and guided young scientists into collaborative frameworks long before such models were common.
Dr. Waxman’s story is rooted in medicine yet shaped by global possibility. His early work in New York laboratories matured into partnerships that spanned oceans. His focus on differentiation therapy opened new pathways when cytotoxic chemotherapy seemed the only option. His foundation-building created infrastructure not only for his own laboratory but for research ecosystems that persist.
In recent years Dr. Waxman has held the titles of Professor Emeritus in Medicine, Hematology/Oncology and Oncological Sciences at Mount Sinai, while continuing active engagement in research and foundation work. His vision remains firmly on the future: therapies that are minimally toxic, personalized, gene‐function‐correcting, and globally accessible.
His legacy will persist well beyond his own lab: a generation of scientists seeing cancer not merely as a target to be destroyed but as a cellular programme to be re-educated; a network of collaborations crossing disciplinary and geographic borders; and therapies seeded from his foundational work that are now standard of care.
Dr. Samuel Waxman’s life is a testament to perseverance, innovation and the conviction that scientific progress is best achieved through cooperation rather than competition. His career exemplifies how a single patient‐centre orientation — that every cancer patient deserves the best possible future — can drive decades of inquiry, fund-raising, mentorship and global outreach.
In an era where the promise of cancer cure remains both urgent and complex, Dr. Waxman’s path reminds us that breakthroughs frequently come at the intersection of biology, collaboration and vision.
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PR Mogul Norah Lawlor just updated THE charity must-attend-event of the season. On a very special autumn evening in New York, leaders in science, philanthropy, and culture will gather at Apella on East 29th Street to honor innovation, compassion, and progress at the 28th Annual Waxman Collaboration for a Cure Gala. Hosted by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, this year’s celebration—fittingly themed A Celebration of Breakthroughs—marks nearly three decades of relentless pursuit toward curing cancer through collaboration and scientific excellence.
Set for October 22, 2025, the evening promises to blend elegance with purpose, uniting some of the most dedicated figures in medical research and charitable giving. The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation, established with the mission to eradicate cancer by funding collaborative and cross-disciplinary research, continues to stand as one of the most respected institutions in its field. Each year, the gala becomes a cornerstone of New York’s philanthropic calendar—a convergence of visionaries, researchers, and benefactors who share the belief that progress in science begins with unity of effort.
This year’s honorees reflect the Foundation’s wide-reaching ethos: compassion in action, leadership through service, and brilliance in discovery.
Jean Shafiroff, philanthropist, television personality, and author, will be recognized for her tireless dedication to charitable causes and her influential role in advancing health and humanitarian initiatives across New York and beyond. Her ability to bridge social influence with sincere advocacy for the underprivileged has made her a defining figure in modern philanthropy.
Robert Wiener, Chairman Emeritus of Maxx Properties, will be celebrated for his commitment to community enrichment and long-standing support of medical and scientific advancement. A respected figure in both business and charitable circles, Wiener exemplifies the leadership that fuels the Foundation’s work—steady, generous, and transformative.
Jeff Settleman, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Director of Oncology Research and Development at Pfizer, will be honored for his groundbreaking contributions to cancer research. His career, distinguished by a rare combination of academic rigor and visionary leadership, represents the very heart of the Foundation’s mission: to turn scientific collaboration into real-world cures.
Science, Philanthropy, and the Art of Collaboration
The Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has long championed the idea that collaboration, rather than competition, is the true engine of discovery. Since its founding, it has funded researchers across leading institutions worldwide, supporting projects that push the boundaries of understanding cancer’s origins and treatments. By fostering international partnerships, the Foundation ensures that breakthroughs are shared, accelerating the collective march toward prevention and cure.
The annual Collaboration for a Cure event is not merely a gala—it is a celebration of the scientific method as a shared human endeavor. Guests who attend find themselves immersed in an evening that unites the city’s cultural vitality with the gravity of scientific purpose. The conversations are as lively as the cause is profound, as doctors, donors, and advocates exchange ideas over candlelit tables overlooking the East River.
The elegant Apella venue, with its sleek architecture and luminous views, sets the perfect tone for an evening devoted to hope and progress. A reception filled with fine cuisine, heartfelt speeches, and moments of reflection underscores the meaning behind every research grant and discovery made possible by the Foundation’s supporters.
A Legacy of Impact
For nearly half a century, the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation has built a legacy rooted in collaboration. Its researchers have contributed to major advances in understanding genetic mutations, identifying new drug targets, and pioneering early detection methods that have changed lives across the globe. Each year, the Foundation reaffirms its mission through this event, where breakthroughs are not just celebrated—they are shared.
The Waxman Collaboration for a Cure embodies the Foundation’s core philosophy: that science and compassion must move forward together. Funds raised during the evening will directly support international research collaborations, young investigator programs, and cutting-edge studies that continue to push cancer research beyond boundaries of geography and discipline.
An Evening to Remember
As guests arrive on October 22nd, the atmosphere will reflect both the gravity of purpose and the joy of achievement. Scientists will stand shoulder-to-shoulder with philanthropists, united by a common goal—to make cancer not a life sentence, but a curable condition. Throughout the evening, stories of progress will intertwine with moments of gratitude, illuminating the ongoing power of shared discovery.
By the time the night draws to a close, applause will echo not just for the honorees, but for the collective spirit that has defined twenty-eight years of collaboration. The evening will reaffirm that breakthroughs do not belong to one individual or institution—they belong to all who believe in the power of partnership.
For those who attend, the 28th Waxman Collaboration for a Cure will stand as a testament to what can be achieved when intellect meets empathy, when science meets society, and when the pursuit of knowledge meets the deepest human desire—to heal.
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