The Top 10 Hospitals for Cancer Treatment in the U.S.

Elton John To Perform At City Of Hope's 2024 Spirit Of Life Gala

City of Hope, one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States and a leading research center for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses, announced today that its Music, Film and Entertainment Industry (MFEI) volunteer and fundraising group's Spirit of Life Gala will include a headlining performance by Elton John.

Taking place on Oct. 22, 2024, at the historic Shrine Auditorium and Expo Hall in downtown Los Angeles, the 51st annual affair will present Jay Marciano, chairman and CEO of AEG Presents, with City of Hope's prestigious Spirit of Life Award. Marciano will be recognized for his longtime philanthropic and humanitarian efforts.

"I am honored to be receiving The Spirit of Life Award from City of Hope and to be able to contribute to raising awareness and funds to speed its important work of eradicating cancer and improving lives for so many," Marciano said. "I am also humbled and grateful that Elton John, a true superstar in every regard, has agreed to lend his immeasurable talents to this event with a performance that's sure to inspire support for a cause that unfortunately touches so many lives. And if that weren't enough, having David Blaine, Evan Funke, and Fred Armisen contribute to such an extraordinary evening is beyond my wildest dreams," Marciano added.

A prominent figure in the live entertainment and music industry and widely known for his work leading one of the world's largest live event companies that's recently produced two of the most significant music tours in history — Taylor Swift's "Eras Tour" and Elton John's "Farewell Yellow Brick Road" — Marciano is focused on galvanizing the industry to accelerate cancer research at City of Hope so that more people around the world may benefit from its findings.

John's historic, final tour saw the musical icon play 330 shows worldwide to over 6.25 million fans across the UK, Europe, North America and Australia. The U.S. Leg of the tour concluded with three sell-out shows at Dodger Stadium. The concert was livestreamed on Disney + in every territory the channel broadcasts in, a global first. He later headlined Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage in June 2023, the final UK show before the Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour concluded in July 2023, marking the end of more than 50 years on the road. Now, the stage has been set for another very special performance at the Spirit of Life Gala.

"Jay is more than a colleague; he is a dear friend," John said. "It is my pleasure to lend my support to him as he receives the Spirit of Life honor, especially given City of Hope's dignity-giving supportive care for people who face cancer, along with its unmatched research for other life-threatening illnesses. Their important work has led to advancements in the field that have fortunately enabled so many people to live beautiful, long lives. Everyone should have that opportunity, and I'm honored to play a part in City of Hope's work towards that goal."

Founded more than a century ago to serve people who had trouble accessing high-quality, effective cancer treatment, City of Hope combines inclusive, compassionate care with big dreams realized through breakthrough scientific research.

"Our longstanding supporters in the entertainment industry are helping us deliver on our most important goal: saving lives," said Robert Stone, CEO of City of Hope and the Helen and Morgan Chu Chief Executive Officer Distinguished Chair. "Thank you, Jay, and our partners for helping us ensure that people with cancer, regardless of race, socioeconomic status or geography, have equitable access to the most advanced cancer treatments available."

In its 50-plus year history, MFEI raised over $150 million to benefit City of Hope research and care programs.

"The music industry has the power to unite millions of people for a cause, and when that cause is cancer research, the impact can be transformative," said Kristin J. Bertell, chief philanthropy officer at City of Hope. "Jay's support will amplify awareness, raise crucial funds, and inspire hope for millions of cancer patients and their families. It's not just about entertainment; it's about saving lives through the power of philanthropy," Bertell continued.

In addition to the performance by John, attendees will experience a curated menu by chef Evan Funke, a master of the old-world techniques of handmade pasta, and an unprecedented act by magician and mentalist David Blaine — both experiences promise to round out an evening of magic. Comedian, actor, musician and writer Fred Armisen will emcee the event.

"City of Hope's Music, Film and Entertainment Industry division and its board are looking forward to honoring Jay and celebrating his commitment to supporting cancer research through his deep influence within the live entertainment industry," said Alissa Pollack, executive vice president of global music marketing for iHeartMedia and MFEI board president. "It's remarkable to see the music industry continue to come together for a common cause against cancer."

"City of Hope's MFEI Board cannot thank Jay Marciano, and his entire team, enough for all they are doing to help fight these horrible diseases, said Evan Lamberg, President of Universal Music Publishing Group, North America and MFEI Board Chairman. "There is not a single person I meet that has not, in some way directly or indirectly, been affected by cancer. City of Hope continues its battle against cancer around the clock and looks to continue to make the quality of people's lives better."

City Of Hope Orange County Appoints Alessio Pigazzi, M.D., Ph.D., As Executive Medical Director, Colorectal Surgery

City of Hope Orange County announces the appointment of Alessio Pigazzi, M.D., Ph.D., as clinical professor of surgery, executive medical director of colorectal surgery and vice chair of clinical network affairs for the Department of Surgery. (Photo: Business Wire)

Noted for performing the world's first robot-assisted tumor removal for rectal cancer, Dr. Pigazzi is advancing research in early onset colorectal cancer

IRVINE, Calif., August 20, 2024--(BUSINESS WIRE)--City of Hope Orange County, part of one of the largest and most advanced cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States, announced today that world-renowned colorectal surgeon Alessio Pigazzi, M.D., Ph.D., has joined the organization as clinical professor of surgery, executive medical director of colorectal surgery and vice chair of clinical network affairs for the Department of Surgery.

Dr. Pigazzi performed the world's first robot-assisted tumor removal for rectal cancer two decades ago at City of Hope in Duarte, California, revolutionizing treatment of the disease. In his new role, Dr. Pigazzi will lead a team of surgeons and researchers specializing in complex colon, rectal and anal cancers, advance research in early onset colorectal cancer and minimally invasive techniques to improve recovery after surgery, and oversee optimal access and utilization of surgical services.

"Dr. Pigazzi is an exceptionally talented leader and surgical pioneer whose expertise has transformed his field and enhanced our collective ability to treat complex cancers and improve survival rates," said Edward S. Kim, M.D., M.B.A., physician-in-chief, City of Hope Orange County, vice physician-in-Chief, City of Hope National Medical Center, and Construction Industries Alliance City of Hope Orange County Physician-in-Chief Chair. "We welcome him as a widely respected clinician and an internationally noted researcher who will further our ability to provide outstanding patient care and advance cancer breakthroughs."

Dr. Pigazzi is renowned for his expertise in laparoscopic, robot-assisted and open surgical techniques. He is also among a small cadre of surgeons proficient in cytoreductive surgery with hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC), a highly advanced procedure in which heated chemotherapy is directly applied within the abdominal cavity following the removal of cancerous tumors. The procedure can improve long-term outcomes and provide more treatment options for those with inoperable or advanced-stage cancer.

"This appointment to City of Hope Orange County is a homecoming for me," Dr. Pigazzi said. "I am truly impressed by the level of comprehensive cancer care City of Hope offers — from the multidisciplinary clinics to integrative oncology to the depth and breadth of advanced treatments, clinical trials, and the latest technology available to patients and their families. This level of cancer-focused expertise, pioneering research and patient support services makes City of Hope the best place for people with cancer."

Annette Walker, president of City of Hope Orange County, said the organization welcomes Dr. Pigazzi to its roster of world-renowned cancer experts. City of Hope was recently recognized among the top 5 in the nation for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report.

"As we prepare for the 2025 opening of Orange County's only hospital exclusively focused on treating and curing cancer, City of Hope is ensuring that people with cancer have access to groundbreaking cancer research and the most advanced, lifesaving treatments," Walker said. "Patients in Orange County and beyond will benefit from Dr. Pigazzi's clinical excellence and patient-focused approach."

Dr. Pigazzi's research includes neoadjuvant therapies for colon and rectal cancer, which involve administering treatments before cancer surgery to reduce the size of a tumor or destroy cancer cells that have spread. He also focuses on expanding the capabilities of minimally invasive and robotic surgery, with the goal of making these procedures more accessible and effective for a broader range of patients.

Additionally, he is currently leading research investigating the role of dietary sugars in early onset colorectal cancer, a national and regional trend recently addressed in a City of Hope Orange County report.

A founding member of the Clinical Robotic Surgery Association, Dr. Pigazzi is a fellow of the American College of Surgeons and the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgeons, and a fellow of the Society of Surgical Oncology.

Dr. Pigazzi earned his joint medical degree and doctorate at Boston University School of Medicine. He completed his internship and residency in general surgery at New York-Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center. Additionally, he completed a fellowship in minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic, bariatric and robotic surgery) at Hackensack Medical Center in Hackensack, New Jersey, and a fellowship in colorectal surgery at UCI Medical Center in Orange, California.

"City of Hope is at the forefront of surgical advances and is a world leader in robotic-assisted techniques," said Yuman Fong, M.D., the Sangiacomo Family Chair in Surgical Oncology at City of Hope and director of its Center for Surgical Innovation. "We are pleased to have Dr. Pigazzi back as our colleague at City of Hope where his surgical experience and immense knowledge will advance our exceptional patient outcomes."

About City of Hope

City of Hope's mission is to make hope a reality for all touched by cancer and diabetes. Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown into one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S. And one of the leading research centers for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. City of Hope research has been the basis for numerous breakthrough cancer medicines, as well as human synthetic insulin and monoclonal antibodies. With an independent, National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center at its core, City of Hope brings a uniquely integrated model to patients, spanning cancer care, research and development, academics and training, and innovation initiatives. City of Hope's growing national system includes its Los Angeles campus, a network of clinical care locations across Southern California, a new cancer center in Orange County, California, and cancer treatment centers and outpatient facilities in the Atlanta, Chicago, and Phoenix areas. City of Hope's affiliated group of organizations includes Translational Genomics Research Institute and AccessHopeTM. For more information about City of Hope, follow us on Facebook, X, YouTube, Instagram and LinkedIn.

View source version on businesswire.Com: https://www.Businesswire.Com/news/home/20240820970676/en/

Contacts

Kelsey Dalton626-595-0011kdalton@coh.Org

View comments

New Collaboration Means More Cancer Care Options For Region

KEARNEY — CHI Health Good Samaritan and Nebraska Cancer Specialists announce a new collaboration that will provide additional cancer treatment options to the region. Good Samaritan has leased nearly 2,000 square-feet of clinic space inside its Cancer Center located at 104 E. 33rd St. To NCS, a regional leader in community oncology.

Accredited by the American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer, Good Samaritan's Cancer Center will continue to provide the same services, including radiation oncology, infusion and ancillary services. Anchored by board certified radiation oncologist Dr. Nicole Nolan and Nurse Practitioner Lilly Simpson, its experienced care team will also remain the same. A minor remodel of the space, already complete, will be the only change for patients, visitors and staff.

As of Aug. 12, NCS physicians Sarah Creamer, David Crocket and Ryan Ramaekers are providing medical oncology services to patients in the newly-leased separate space within the cancer center. Open weekdays from 8 a.M. Until 5 p.M., appointments can be made by calling 308-865-7985.

People are also reading…

"For 40 years, it's been a point of pride that patients of Good Samaritan don't have to leave Kearney for cutting-edge technology, expert clinicians and a full-scope of oncology services," said Curt Coleman, president, CHI Health Good Samaritan. "We are excited for our new collaboration with NCS. It will provide the region with additional medical oncology options — all in one convenient location. So now our patients won't even have to leave the building for world renowned care."

NCS also delivers care in Grand Island, Hastings and seven additional communities in central Nebraska.

"This new collaboration is yet another way NCS is growing to meet the needs of patients and families across the state," Dr. Creamer, board certified medical oncologist and hematologist. "Our focus has always been to offer patients comprehensive, cutting-edge care, and we are excited to bring this approach to Kearney. We're bringing with us a team of dedicated oncology professionals who know the challenges that cancer can present and who know how important it is for patients to receive care close to home?"

A community ribbon-cutting of the new space will be scheduled in September.

— Sarah Creamer, MD, Medical Oncology. Dr. Creamer, board certified in hematology and medical oncology, graduated from the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine. She completed her residency at the University of Texas-Houston, and her fellowship at Houston Methodist Hospital.

— David Crockett, MD, Medical Oncology. Dr. Crockett, board certified in hematology and medical oncology, graduated from Creighton University. He completed a residency and fellowship at University of Nebraska Medical Center.

— Ryan Ramaekers, MD, Medical Oncology. Dr. Ramaekers, board certified in hematology and medical oncology, graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University. He completed medical school, including an internal medicine residency and medical oncology/hematology fellowship, at the University of Nebraska Medical Center.

— Nicole Nolan, MD, Radiation Oncology. Dr. Nolan, board certified in radiation oncology, graduated from Creighton University Medical Center. She completed a residency at the University of Kansas School of Medicine.

— Lilly Simpson, APRN, Radiation Oncology and Genetics. Nurse Practitioner Lilly Simpson, board certified, graduated from University of Nebraska Medical Center-Kearney. She also obtained a certification in genetics from the City of Hope.

Good Samaritan's Cancer Center services include: Medical oncology, radiation oncology, chemotherapy, diagnostic imaging including PET/CT, surgery, infusion services, general surgery, genetic counseling, clinical trials, support groups, nurse navigation, cancer rehabilitation, oncology certified nurses, licensed mental health practitioner and registered dietitians.

Get the latest local business news delivered FREE to your inbox weekly.

---