Event Chair Susan Munao, Summer’s longtime manager and friend, framed the gathering as a call to action for improved early detection. Drawing on personal losses, including the deaths of her sister and client, Munao emphasized that current screening guidelines often leave high-risk individuals behind. Her push for accessible testing resonated throughout the night, underscored by a tribute to the Sudano family, who continue to champion research in the singer’s name.
Nashville Benefit Raises $185,000 for Lung Cancer Research
The Lung Cancer Research Foundation’s inaugural 'Here Comes Summer' benefit, held Tuesday at Nashville’s Richland Country Club, raised $185,000 to advance lung cancer diagnostics and treatment. The sold-out evening honored the legacy of Donna Summer, who died from the disease in 2012, by uniting patients, clinicians, and music industry figures.
Dr. David Spigel of the Sarah Cannon Research Institute highlighted the rapid evolution of oncology, noting that the landscape of treatment has shifted dramatically since 2000. For patient advocate Stephen Huff, the impact of such research is tangible. Diagnosed with stage 4 lung cancer at age 29, Huff credited targeted therapies for his recovery, describing the scientific advancements as the literal time he now spends raising his two children. The funds raised will support the foundation’s ongoing mission, which has already directed nearly $53 million toward 450 research grants globally.
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