November 10, 2018
Held at Madame Tussaud’s in Washington D.C.
This fundraiser was held in celebration of CBTF 25th anniversary of advancing medical research, assisting families with information, and forming a community of support for those touched by childhood brain tumors.
The Childhood Brain Tumor Foundation’s 25th Anniversary Gala was held at Madame Tussaud’s in Washington DC on November 10, 2018, chaired by Dr. Roger and Bashi Packer. The event was a huge success with a record turnout. A dedicated committee formed by the Packer’s came together to plan an exciting evening that focused on recognizing CBTF and the accomplishments of several individuals and groups over the past 25 years. Bashi Packer thanked everyone for attending and thanked all of the volunteers, committee members, and Joyce Kammerman for the time commitment given to the event. She graciously acknowledged all of the sponsors, supporters, and friends for sponsoring and attending the anniversary event.
Jeanne and Jim Young thanked the Packer’s, all of the board members and scientific advisors, past and present, for their commitment over the years by voluntarily giving their time and talents in support of the CBTF mission. Jeanne expressed the importance of the supporters who have played a vital role toward CBTF accomplishing its mission.
Throughout the evening attendees enjoyed posing with friends and colleagues with the celebrities and political figures. Attendees placed their bids on silent auction items that were generously donated.
Surgical Theater set-up in the Oval Office to demonstrate a virtual tour of the brain. Alex, a rep for Surgical Theater demonstrated on his computer what the individual sees in 2D. Alex offered attendees an opportunity to wear the virtual reality apparatus to experience Surgical Theater’s cutting edge technology. Many attendees took a virtual reality tour of the brain in 3D.
The evening program included Dr. Roger Packer’s overview of the Foundation’s accomplishments, funding over $3.5 million for research programs that have enabled young investigators to jumpstart their research programs. He stated many of the programs funded by CBTF have moved into significant research programs that have been beneficial to patients. CBTF funding has also supported international conferences for medical professionals and Family Retreat Day events that provide education and support for families.
Dr. Packer spoke glowingly of the honorees and presented the awards. All award groups received citations signed by Governor Larry Hogan and individuals received citations from Senator Christopher Van Hollen. Each of the honored medical institutions joined in the celebrations. as everyone applauded them.
Steve Young and The Sounds played for the evening after the live auction, and were accompanied by Kyle Barker of Livin’ Loud Entertainment.
Thank you to Bridgette Wood, Shannon Falter Smith, and Mike O’Brien for volunteering their time to create the registration page and for website support. Thank you to Alexis Wood and Anna Rodriguez for capturing many photographs of the event. Special thanks to Colonial Parking generously for providing complimentary parking for the evening.