2026 GALA
Thank you for an
unforgettable night.
We want to thank all of our generous sponsors, attendees, and live and silent auction participants for a memorable 23rd annual gala! The evening was full of stories of determination and courage, and of course...humor.
With your support, together we made a difference through funding life-changing brain tumor research and compassionate patient care—and we had lots of fun while doing it!
WHEN:
Sep. 12th, 6PM
WHERE:
The Depot, Minneapolis
ADDRESS:
225 3rd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55401
2026 Honorees
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Madelyn Lauer is an orthopedic hand surgeon and an anaplastic astrocytoma survivor diagnosed in 2021. Her experience as both physician and patient strengthened her commitment to shared decision-making and compassionate care. After treatment, she returned to practice and completed her first Ironman triathlon. A loving wife and devoted mother, Maddy treasures every day with her family.
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In January 2026, while thriving as a second-year student at Iowa State and serving as sorority president, persistent headaches led to the devastating diagnosis of a high-grade glioma. Since then, Kari has undergone two craniotomies, proton beam radiation, and chemotherapy. Through ongoing consultations and treatments, she continues to face this journey with faith, courage, and hope, trusting that with God beside her, she will persevere through every challenge ahead.
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Jack spent his career coaching football at Augsburg University and leading teams through challenges. Today, he relies on a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and loved ones as he battles stage IV glioblastoma. Diagnosed in July 2025 and undergoing surgery shortly thereafter, Jack draws strength from his determination to be there for his wife as she faced Alzheimer’s.
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Rebecca Devine, aka the Brainy Blonde, is mom to four and glioblastoma warrior who cared for her mother with GBM before her own diagnosis. An 8-year survivor, she believes you are not your diagnosis and your prognosis is not your destiny. Through her podcast and socials, she offers hope and empowerment.
FAQ-
Location: The Depot, 225 3rd Avenue South, Minneapolis, MN 55401
The parking entrance is 136 S 5th Avenue, Minneapolis, MN, 55401
For more parking information visit: thedepotminneapolis.com/parking/
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Cocktail or semi-formal attire with a creative twist! Think polished, festive, and expressive—add a pop of color, fun accessories, or a unique flair to celebrate the spirit of the evening.
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Food & Drink:
Passed appetizers will be offered during the General Reception hour, and dinner will be served before the program. Dessert will be served during the program. Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase at bar locations throughout the venue.
6:00 PM: General Reception
· Cash bar and passed appetizers
· Silent Auction
· Wine Wall7:30 PM: Dinner is served in dining room
· Silent Auction closes
· Program begins
· RaffleGames
Bring cash ($20s are ideal) for the general reception wine wall and raffle (during the program).
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Every dollar goes back to those who need it most. We partner with the American Brain Tumor Association, the University of Minnesota, and Mayo Clinic to advance research, while also supporting local organizations that improve quality of life for brain tumor patients and families in our community. Learn more.
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Please visit out Volunteer page for more information.
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Please visit out Sponsorship page for more information.
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Yes, the Depot features stair-free paths at entrances, elevators for those parking in the garage onsite and accessible public washrooms.
This event is open to everyone. If you need accommodations or have accessibility concerns, please contact Christina Saunders at christina@humortofightthetumor.org.
Add to our tribute wall
Each year our gala tribute wall grows to honor survivors and those we've lost in the brain tumor community. If you'd like to be included, please submit a high resolution photo below.
Questions? Contact: