John Wayne Cancer Institute Auxiliary To Honor Vince Vaughn And Steven J. O'Day, MD At 32nd Annual Odyssey Ball

SANTA MONICA, Calif., March 7, 2017 /PRNewswire/ -- The John Wayne Cancer Institute Auxiliary will honor award-winning actor Vince Vaughn, with the "True Grit" Humanitarian Award and internationally recognized medical oncologist Steven J. O'Day, MD, with "The Duke" Special Service Award at the 32^nd annual Odyssey Ball, March 25, 2017 at the Beverly Wilshire, Beverly Hills. The Best is Yet to Come casino-themed gala fundraiser benefits the John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John's Health Center. The Auxiliary is helmed by president Anita Swift, granddaughter of John Wayne.

Vince Vaughn has become one of Hollywood's most highly acclaimed triple threats – as an actor, producer and screenwriter. Vaughn caught the attention of critics and audiences in Doug Liman's cult classic Swingers. He was most recently seen in Mel Gibson's WWII drama Hacksaw Ridge, and recently wrapped production on Craig Zahler's Brawl in Cell Block 99. Vaughn's film credits include:  Wedding Crashers, Couples Retreat, Four Christmases, Fred Claus, Into The Wild, The Breakup, Old School, Mr. and Mrs. Smith, Rudy, The Lost World: Jurassic Park 2, among others.

Steven J. O'Day, MD is Professor of Medical Oncology, Director of Immuno-Oncology and Director of Clinical Research at the John Wayne Cancer Institute. Dr. O'Day is recognized as one of the preeminent melanoma specialists in the world.  He provides expert clinical care while incorporating teaching and leading clinical research. He lectures extensively, both nationally and internationally. He has been at the forefront of new melanoma drug development over the last two decades. Dr. O'Day played a leadership role in the development of the breakthrough immune checkpoint inhibitor ipilimumab. He has been a principal investigator in more than 100 clinical trials.   

Since 1981, the family of John Wayne has been committed to pioneering cancer research in memory of their father, who died of cancer. The courageous and dedicated researchers at the John Wayne Cancer Institute have made groundbreaking discoveries that have changed the way cancer is detected, diagnosed and treated around the world. Today the tradition of excellence continues as the Institute spearheads new research advances, while training the next generation of leaders in the fight against cancer through its renowned Surgical Oncology Fellowship Program. The Institute provides immediate hope to cancer patients everywhere. 

For tickets, email [email protected] or visit https://www.classy.org/campaign/John-Wayne-Cancer-Institute-Auxiliary/c105376.

SOURCE John Wayne Cancer Institute Auxiliary