Home / Health / Craig Melvin's Gala Tops $5M for Cancer Fight
Craig Melvin's Gala Tops $5M for Cancer Fight
10 Sep
Summary
- Bottoms Up Invitational has raised over $5 million.
- Event honors Craig Melvin's brother who died from cancer.
- New panel to discuss cancer technology breakthroughs.
The Bottoms Up Invitational, co-founded by NBC's Craig Melvin and his wife Lindsay Czarniak, has surpassed an impressive $5 million in donations for the Colorectal Cancer Alliance. This annual event was established five years ago in memory of Melvin's brother, Lawrence, who succumbed to colon cancer in 2020 at the age of 43.
The fundraiser not only honors Lawrence's memory but also actively works to demystify colonoscopies and encourage early detection of colorectal cancer. With a 90% survival rate when caught early, the event emphasizes the importance of screenings and facilitates open conversations about potential symptoms. Participants can look forward to a concert and golf tournament, alongside a new "Screen Smart" panel discussion.
This year's "Screen Smart" panel will feature industry leaders and doctors discussing cutting-edge technologies and breakthroughs in colorectal cancer treatment, including advancements like blood testing. Melvin expressed his amazement at the community's willingness to support the cause, viewing the Invitational as a "family reunion" for those affected by colorectal cancer. The 2026 event is scheduled for September 13-14 in Connecticut.
