The Cancer League’s annual Holly Ball brought together donors and supporters for an elegant Black and White–themed gala on Friday, December 5, at the Claremont Country Club. The black-tie affair, chaired by Lisa Sauer, raised funds to support groundbreaking cancer research across the Bay Area.
Sauer and her committee transformed the Club with refined décor that set the tone for the evening. Guests mingled during a lively cocktail hour, enjoying signature drinks including the Noir & Blanc and the Tuxedo, a Bulleit bourbon specialty.
Following dinner, auctioneer Joe Cunningham launched the evening’s program with two exclusive live auction packages: a curated wine collection and a private tour of a UCSF research lab led by Dr. Alan Ashworth, President of UCSF’s Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center. Winners will receive a rare, behind-the-scenes look at pioneering work being done by UCSF researchers.
The program’s most moving moment came with the presentation of the Cancer League’s inaugural Founders’ Award to Gary Kovacs. A cancer survivor and longtime supporter of the League’s mission, Kovacs was recognized for his commitment to advancing early-stage, high-potential cancer research. His remarks inspired attendees to give generously, raising more than $200,000 during the paddle-raise alone.
Awardee Gary Kovacs with his daughter, Erin Kovacs 
Dr. Siresha Chaluvadi, Brooke Wall, Julia Mehra, Ashley Finch 
Jenna Caldwell, Katie Castles Shaffer, Kathryn MacDonald, Amy Boxer 
Lisa Sauer, Chair and Rich Sauer 
Jenna Caldwell, President and Jack Caldwell, CIBC Private Wealth
Cancer League President Jenna Caldwell praised Sauer and the many volunteers whose work made the event a success. She also expressed gratitude to UCSF for its sponsorship and to CIBC Private Wealth Management for its continued corporate support. “We are grateful for the generosity of all our many sponsors and donors, both corporate and individual,” Caldwell said. “It is with all of this support that we can continue funding innovative cancer research.”
Proceeds from the Holly Ball will be granted to accredited Bay Area nonprofits dedicated to fighting cancer. The Cancer League’s next fundraiser, Spring Soiree, is scheduled for April 23, 2026. To donate or learn more about the Cancer League, please visit www.thecancerleagueinc.org.
Photos by Lindsay Barstow, courtesy of The Cancer League