City of Hope’s East End Chapter/Jeanne Kaye League of New York City (EEC) honored daytime TV legend Susan Lucci and top luxury real estate broker Kathy Murray with the Spirit of Life Award at The Plaza Hotel in New York City. This event raised awareness and support for one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the United States.
Kathy Murray and Susan Lucci
“We are thrilled beyond measure to celebrate Susan Lucci and Kathy Murray with City of Hope’s Spirit of Life Award,” said Lisa Kaye Fuld, EEC’s president. “Our chapter has long admired Susan for using her platform to raise awareness about the importance of health advocacy. Kathy’s journey as a breast cancer survivor exemplifies the lifesaving power of early detection. Their stories inspire all of us to be proactive about our health.”
The Spirit of Life Award, City of Hope’s highest honor, is given annually to leaders who have significantly contributed to improving lives through cancer research and clinical innovation. Past recipients include leaders from business, entertainment, science, and philanthropy, all united by their commitment to positive change.
Kathy Murray, a breast cancer survivor and single mother of two, received the award from Howard Lorber, CEO of Douglas Elliman. “She turns everything into something beautiful and inspiring; she has been nothing less than fearless in business and when faced with cancer,” said Lorber.
“Time is our most precious resource, and the research at City of Hope has given me – like so many others – hope and a future,” said Murray.
Nicole Schulz, a City of Hope patient, shared her inspiring journey with acute myeloid leukemia, emphasizing the importance of City of Hope’s work. Emcee Letitia Frye then led a paddle-raise fundraising moment, encouraging attendees to support the organization.
Rosanna Scotto, co-host of “Good Day New York,” presented Lucci with her award.
“We are in this together,” said Lucci. “As women, we need to listen to our bodies and put ourselves on our to-do lists. I’m grateful to City of Hope for their work and for allowing me to help shine a light on women’s health.”
Kristin Bertell, chief philanthropy officer at City of Hope, added, “Susan and Kathy’s commitment to accelerating groundbreaking cancer research at City of Hope is giving back the gift of time to patients like Nicole.”
The EEC chapter, comprising 500 women from New York’s business, philanthropic, and cultural communities, has raised over $14 million in support of innovative cancer treatments over the past 40 years.
Founded in 1913, City of Hope has grown into one of the largest cancer research and treatment organizations in the U.S. and a leading research center for diabetes and other life-threatening illnesses. Their integrated model includes cancer care, research and development, academics, training, and innovation initiatives.