Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation Benefit celebrates 40 years of impact

The Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation marked its 40th anniversary in spectacular fashion, hosting its sold-out Fall Benefit Oct. 16 at Theater on the Lake. The evening not only honored the foundation’s four decades of groundbreaking work but also celebrated what would have been Lynn Sage’s 80th birthday, raising more than $1.4 million to fuel cutting-edge breast cancer research, education and clinical trials.

More than 800 guests attended the event, filling the lakeside venue with energy, compassion and purpose. The benefit highlighted the foundation’s profound impact on the breast cancer community, having invested over $50 million since its founding in 1985. That funding has supported innovative research and programs designed to improve early detection, expand treatment options and move closer to the ultimate goal of eradicating breast cancer.

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The evening paid heartfelt tribute to Lynn Sage, whose memory and courage continue to inspire the foundation’s mission. Daughters Laura Sage and Halee Sage joined Executive Director Kirstin Chernawsky in welcoming supporters and sharing stories of resilience, progress and hope. Civic leaders including Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza, Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia and Congressman Mike Quigley were also in attendance.

Benefit co-chairs John DeCaro, Dana Sanders and Jenny Stevens lent their names and support to the event, helping secure record attendance and philanthropic energy that made the night a success.

Guests enjoyed culinary creations from some of Chicago’s top restaurants, specialty cocktails and an energetic live auction, all set against the glittering city skyline. 

As the foundation embarks on its fifth decade, it remains steadfast in its commitment to advancing the science and humanity of breast cancer care. “Forty years ago, our founders turned loss into action,” said Chernawsky. “Today, that spirit continues to drive us toward discoveries that save lives and bring hope to families everywhere.”

Founded in 1985, the Lynn Sage Breast Cancer Foundation is a Chicago-based nonprofit dedicated to eradicating breast cancer through strategic investments in research, education and clinical trials. With over $50 million raised to date, the foundation supports both early-career and established clinicians and researchers working to achieve breakthroughs in prevention, detection and treatment.