The American Cancer Society’s Night of Wine and Roses Gala Celebrates 40 Years of Legacy

Somerset, NJ - For nearly four decades, the American Cancer Society's Night of Wine and Roses Gala has honored trailblazers who lead with heart and courage - individuals whose compassion is reflected in the lives of the patients they serve and inspire each day. Every year, the community comes together to build a legacy that advances progress against cancer.

Join us on May 1, 2026, as we commemorate the 40th anniversary of this extraordinary gala and celebrate its enduring impact on cancer research, patient care, and survivorship.

This year's Medical Honoree is Leslie D. Hirsch, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Saint Peter's Healthcare System. Hirsch is a seasoned healthcare executive whose career spans over 45 years. He has served as president and CEO of Saint Peter's since 2017, having initially joined the organization as president in 2015.

"We are proud to provide access to highly specialized clinical services, as well as research and clinical trials, at Saint Peter's Cancer Center," he said. "Our goal is to always help ease the emotional, physical, and financial burdens often felt by patients with cancer who thought the only option was to travel far from home - or even out of state - to receive what is often perceived as a higher level of care. We collaborate with some of the most experienced cancer specialists in the state, especially those with Astera Cancer Care. Together, we're delivering high-quality, coordinated, and patient-centered cancer care for improved outcomes."

We are also honored to recognize Patricia Pearson as the 9th Annual Judith A. Hoffman Humanitarian Award recipient. A devoted wife and grandmother, Patricia is a servant leader whose life is defined by compassion, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting others. A stage IV lung cancer survivor, she embodies courage and faith in action.

Professionally, Patricia is a longtime employee at Hewlett-Packard and is the founder of Coach Pat Publishing. Her dedication to service is also extended through her leadership on several nonprofit boards, including The Angel Network of Blue Grass and MEDI Helpz. As Patricia shares, "This gala has been my opportunity to honor and stand alongside a community committed to hope, healing, and the fight against cancer."

Hosted by Dr. and Mrs. Michael Nissenblatt and the American Cancer Society, the Night of Wine and Roses is a powerful and inspiring event that unites New Jersey in the fight against cancer. Over the past decade alone, the gala has raised over $5 million dollars to support cancer research and provide free patient programs and services.

This year, more than 60,740 New Jersey residents will be diagnosed with cancer. Because of the progress made against cancer, for the first time, the five-year relative survival rate for all cancers combined has reached70%- a milestone that shows real progress driven by advances in research and patient care.

The 40th Annual Gala will celebrate " A Legacy Written in the Stars , A Future Fueled by Innovation," honoring the power of community, compassion, and discovery that continues to change lives. Guests will enjoy an unforgettable evening featuring a renowned silent auction, an exquisite dinner, and lively entertainment, all in support of the American Cancer Society. Each year, this event unites over 500 guests from the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries, as well as community leaders and supporters across New Jersey.

For more information on the event, visit wineandrosesnj.acsgala.org or call Cara Haggerty at 732-687-2678.

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About the American Cancer Society
The American Cancer Society is a leading cancer-fighting organization with a vision to end cancer as we know it, for everyone. For more than 110 years, we have been improving the lives of people with cancer and their families as the only organization combating cancer through advocacy, research, and patient support. We are committed to ensuring everyone has an opportunity to prevent, detect, treat, and survive cancer. To learn more, visit cancer.org or call our 24/7 helpline at 1-800-227-2345. Connect with us on Facebook, X, and Instagram.