Leaders in Lupus Research and Awareness Honored at the Lupus Foundation of America's 2013 National Gala
New York City Event Raises Funds for Lupus Research, Education, and Advocacy
WASHINGTON, Oct. 9, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Norah O'Donnell, Co-Anchor CBS This Morning; Dr. William Haseltine, Founder, Human Genome Sciences, Inc; and Pfizer Inc. were honored for their outstanding efforts to fight lupus and end its devastating impact on millions of families during the Lupus Foundation of America's National Gala in New York City on October 8th.
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The event opened with a powerful performance by Grammy® award-winning artist Macy Gray, which brought the crowd to their feet. Author and journalist Lee Woodruff served as master of ceremonies. The evening also featured moving video testimonials from individuals with lupus and family members, including U. S. Women's Soccer player and Olympic gold medalist Shannon Boxx, and long-time supporter and Lupus Foundation of America Awareness Activist, Kelly Jean Drury, reinforcing the urgent need for increased awareness and an expanded research effort.
Emmy® award-winning journalist Norah O'Donnell received the 2013 National Women's Empowerment Award for her ongoing commitment and efforts to champion women's health issues. The National Corporate Leadership Award was presented to Pfizer Inc, for the company's pioneering lupus research and efforts to increase access to affordable care and treatment to medically underserved populations. Laurie Olson, Executive Vice President, Strategy, Portfolio and Commercial Operations accepted the award on Pfizer's behalf.
Dr. William Haseltine, was presented with the National Leadership Award for Scientific and Medical Advancement for his innovative research and business leadership that led to the development of the first new drug developed for lupus in nearly 60 years, and the first drug ever developed specifically for the disease. In addition to being a recognized scientist and business leader, Dr. Haseltine founded two philanthropic organizations that focus on access to affordable and high quality health services in low-income countries and fostering a dialog between sciences and the arts.
"We are honored to celebrate the many achievements of these true heroes and champions for the lupus community," said Sandra C. Raymond, President and CEO of the Lupus Foundation of America. "Lupus is a complex disease with many challenges from late diagnosis, to low public awareness, to a lack of safe and effective treatments. We need the continued support of these leaders, as well as our many valued supporters in the room this evening, if we are to overcome these challenges and solve the cruel mystery of lupus."
The Lupus Foundation of America's National Gala is an Evening of Hope honoring outstanding individuals who have been champions for those living with lupus and their families. The Gala raises critically needed funds to support the Foundation's mission and its comprehensive programs of research, education, and advocacy.
About the Lupus Foundation of America
The Lupus Foundation of America is the only national force devoted to solving the mystery of lupus, one of the world's cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases, while giving caring support to those who suffer from its brutal impact. Through a comprehensive program of research, education, and advocacy, we lead the fight to improve the quality of life for all people affected by lupus. Learn more about the Lupus Foundation of America at lupus.org. For the latest news and updates, follow us on Twitter and Facebook.
SOURCE Lupus Foundation of America
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