Real Talk, Real People.
Aging and Cancer, One Mission: I traveled to New York City for the 28th annual Collaboration for a Cure, hosted by the Samuel Waxman Cancer Research Foundation and The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research. Inside the stunning Apella at Riverpark, overlooking the East River, I witnessed something remarkable, the official launch of the Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging and Cancer merger, the first institute in the world dedicated to studying aging and cancer together.
It wasn’t just another gala. It was intimate, inspiring, and deeply personal a night that blended science, compassion, and community; Aging and Cancer, one mission. And as I sat there surrounded by brilliant scientists, generous philanthropists, and powerful stories, I thought about how moments like this deserve to be shared not just in New York City, but across the Hamptons and beyond.
When Aging and Cancer, Collide
Let’s have a real talk moment. According to the National Cancer Institute, advancing age is the most important risk factor for cancer overall and for many individual cancer types. Read more at cancer.gov
That means as we live longer, which is a blessing our bodies naturally change. Our cells slow down in repairing themselves, our immune systems weaken, and our defenses against disease fade. (Roswell Park Comprehensive Cancer Center)
Dr. Samuel Waxman said it best: “You shouldn’t have to pay the penalty of getting cancer just because you’re living longer.”
That line hit me hard. We all want to live long, healthy lives; but longevity shouldn’t come with the fear of illness. That’s exactly why this new institute matters. It’s about finding ways to live longer and better. This is why Research Is Vital for the World
Here’s Where It Gets Real.
The World Health Organization estimates that cancer cases are expected to double by 2030 not because people are unhealthier, but because they’re living longer. Read more at WHO
The Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging and Cancer is rewriting that story. By studying aging and cancer side by side, researchers can:
- Detect cancer earlier and more accurately.
- Develop treatments that target the root causes of disease.
- Help people enjoy longer, stronger, healthier lives.
This isn’t just about adding years to life it’s about adding life to years. One of the most moving moments of the evening came from Jean Shafiroff, honored as Philanthropist of the Year.
Jean shared her personal connection with Dr. Waxman, recalling how he cared for her father during his cancer journey. She spoke about the love, compassion, and customized plan he created for her dad a doctor who treated his patients like family. You could feel the emotion ripple through the room.
Then Robert Wiener, Chairman Emeritus of Maxx Properties and fellow Philanthropist of the Year, shared his story. He spoke about his wife’s battle with cancer and how Dr. Waxman’s care brought both healing and hope to his family. It was a raw reminder that behind every research grant and lab breakthrough are real people, loved ones, memories, and lives changed forever.
Collaboration Over Competition
One Mission: For nearly three decades, Collaboration for a Cure has been the Waxman Foundation’s rallying cry. And this year, that spirit took on new meaning — Aging and cancer, one mission. By joining forces with The Mark Foundation for Cancer Research, Dr. Waxman and his team have built something extraordinary; a collaboration that bridges disciplines, institutions, and continents. But here’s the truth: federal funding for cancer research has been steadily declining. That’s where philanthropy steps in — where people like Jean, Robert, and countless others make innovation possible.
At this year’s event, every dollar donated was matched dollar-for-dollar by The Mark Foundation, doubling the impact. That’s not just generosity, that’s strategy for change. $1.6 Million was raised for Cancer Research at Waxman Foundation Gala.
The Science with Soul
Here’s what scientists are discovering about the link between aging and cancer — and why it matters:
- Cellular Senescence: Aging cells stop dividing but refuse to die, sending inflammatory signals that can promote tumors.
- DNA Damage: Over time, our repair systems weaken, allowing mutations to linger.
- Immune Decline: The immune system slows, letting abnormal cells slip by undetected.
- Metabolic Shifts: Older cells process energy differently — sometimes feeding cancer instead of fighting it.
The goal isn’t just to treat cancer, but to teach the body to resist it. That’s the future — not just reacting, but preventing.
A Night of Purpose and Flavor
Now, let’s talk about something I rarely say after attending dozens of events this year, the food was delicious; out of all the galas I’ve attended in 2025, this was hands down one of the best meals I’ve had. I chose the Branzino Livornese, perfectly seasoned and paired with couscous, kale, and a touch of sweet from raisins and almonds. It was light yet flavorful, the kind of dish that reminds you why details matter. From start to finish, every plate was beautifully crafted, reflecting the same care and excellence that defined the evening itself; because let’s be honest when science meets soul and good food, that’s a full-circle experience.
From the Hamptons to the World
As someone rooted in the Hamptons, I always look for the connection between local hearts and global impact. The Hamptons is a place full of passionate people, individuals who care deeply about community, health, and giving back. Many of the same faces supporting our local housing initiatives, schools, and wellness programs are also standing behind organizations like the Waxman Foundation.
This night reminded me that generosity isn’t bound by geography. What happens in a ballroom in New York City can ripple through Sag Harbor, East Hampton, and all the way across the globe.
Real Talk, Real People.
What I witnessed on this night wasn’t just science, it was love in motion. It was proof that when compassion meets innovation, and when people put their hearts where their hope is, anything is possible. Aging and Cancer, One Mission was more than a theme — it was the heartbeat of the evening. Philanthropist and TV personality Jean Shafiroff, Robert Wiener, Chairman Emeritus of Maxx Properties, and Jeff Settleman, Ph.D., Senior Vice President and Chief Scientific Director of Oncology Research and Development at Pfizer, each brought a powerful connection to the cause — personal, philanthropic, and scientific. Together, they demonstrated what happens when leadership and lived experience join forces with groundbreaking research. The Samuel Waxman Institute for Aging and Cancer represents a new chapter in the fight for healthier, longer lives; one powered by collaboration, care, and community.
From the city skyline to the shores of the Hamptons and beyond, this is what it looks like when science serves humanity; because aging is inevitable, but cancer doesn’t have to be.
👉 Learn more or support the mission: www.waxmancancer.org
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