The Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation held its annual Gala, dubbed Viva la Vida, on October 25 at the Balboa Bay Resort in Newport Beach. The event raised $945,000, a record-breaking total for PCRF, to fund lifesaving research and less toxic treatment options for children battling cancer.
The Jacobi family of Newport Beach was honored at the event as the Family of Inspiration. Their three-year-old son Luca has been courageously battling leukemia at CHOC for the past sixteen months. The Jacobis’ story moved the entire room and underscored the heart of PCRF’s mission: bringing hope, healing, and innovation to children and families fighting pediatric cancer.
In addition to funding groundbreaking medical research, PCRF also provides scholarships to childhood cancer survivors, helping them pursue their dreams after treatment. This gala was a remarkable example of how our community rallies behind these families and advances the cause of finding safer, more effective treatments for kids.
Viva la Vida, which translates to Long Live Life, reflects PCRF’s vision to ensure that every child facing pediatric cancer has the opportunity to reach their full potential, living happy, healthy, and productive futures.
The 2025 Gala marked the first year of the organization’s $25 million campaign supporting research, equitable care, and mental health and survivorship. With two-thirds of childhood cancer survivors experiencing long-term health challenges, the cost of ongoing care and education can be overwhelming.
The Black Tie Optional event included a live auction plus entertainment from the band Sixwire with special guest Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray.
Visit https://www.pcrf-kids.org for more information.
