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Kristen Ann Carr Fund Raises Over $600,000 at Annual Gala

Jeff Gendel, Brian Fallon and Wendy Klein Gendel (photo credit: Melissa Lawlor)

The Kristen Ann Carr Fund (KACF) — dedicated to advancing sarcoma research, improving cancer patient care and educating physicians — hosted its annual fundraiser, A Night to Remember, raising over $600,000. The event celebrated Jeff Gendel, KACF’s first-ever sarcoma survivor honoree, and his wife Wendy Klein Gendel — and unveiled a series of impactful initiatives, including the establishment of its third endowed fellowship in Adult Medical Oncology at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center (MSK). The evening, held at Drew Nieporent’s Tribeca Grill for the 19th consecutive year, also featured a special acoustic performance by Brian Fallon of The Gaslight Anthem, followed by a set from New Jersey-based funk and soul band JO & the Highland Express.

For 31 years, A Night to Remember has been a signature event — featuring honorees, live music and a premium auction. This year, the Gendels were honored for their dedication to KACF’s mission. Jeff Gendel, diagnosed with sarcoma in 2018, and his wife Wendy Gendel have actively supported the organization’s efforts to enhance sarcoma treatment and research.

“This is a truly awesome honor for us,” said Jeff and Wendy Gendel. “We wouldn’t be here today without KACF, its donors, our medical team and the unwavering support of our family and friends.”

“We are honored to recognize Wendy and Jeff Gendel for their extraordinary contributions,” said Barbara Carr, co-founder of KACF. “Their story of survival and dedication highlights the progress we’ve made and the work still needed to combat this devastating disease.”
Wendy Klein Gendel, Jeff Gendel, Brian Fallon, Barbara Carr, Sasha Carr, Ilyse Lesser and Michael Solomon (photo credit: Melissa Lawlor)

Event Highlights and Auction Success

Over $100,000 was raised through auction items, including a Bruce Springsteen-signed Telecaster guitar that fetched nearly $25,000. Springsteen has been a steadfast supporter of KACF since its inception in 1993, following the passing of Kristen Ann Carr, and headlined its inaugural benefit concert at Madison Square Garden.

There is an additional on-line auction live now through Dec. 5 at Charitybuzz.com/KACF featuring VIP tickets to Jingle Ball and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, NASCAR garage passes and more — including autographed memorabilia from Springsteen, Brett Michaels and Aaron Judge, among others.

For more information about the Kristen Ann Carr Fund and its initiatives, visit kristenanncarrfund.org.