What a spectacular night! The Back Lot of Paramount Studios was transformed into a “foodie” fest with tasting stations from 57 of LA’s best restaurants, caterers and beverage companies, including world famous “Pink’s Hotdogs, Lawry’s the Prime Rib and Bistro Gardens,” and the crowd was entertained by Billy Vera and the Beaters, not to mention the 70 plus table casino. More than 3,000 people attended the event and, in this economy, that means that Concern Foundation has a large and loyal following. And, why not? The event raised $1.3 million dollars, which will go to funding 48 cancer researchers nationwide.

The Concern Foundation was conceived in 1968 by a small group of friends in Beverly Hills to channel their grief over a friend’s breast cancer diagnosis. With 95% of net proceeds going directly to research, Concern has funded 554 researchers studying many forms of cancer, primarily in the areas of cancer genetics, cell biology, and immunology. Concern specifically funds researchers who lack financial support for their first major research project. Concern’s impact on the careers of young investigators is profound and helps to sustain the progress made in the cancer research community.

Way to go, Concern!

There is no starched white lab coat for Dr. Laura Esserman. Instead, the tall and striking breast cancer researcher, surgeon and visionary favors colorful clothes, high heels and, on a recent day, metallic blue nail polish.

Before she operates, just as the general anesthetic is being administered, Esserman sings the patient’s requested song. A talented musician with a voice for opera, Esserman delivers songs as varied as “Don’t You Fret” from “Les Miserables” to the Sarah Palin rap from “Saturday Night Live.” Read more…

Source: SFGate