ABOUT

On March 14, 2026 we will host our 12th annual “Let’s Be Frank About Cancer” Gala with a goal of raising $1M. All funds raised through the event will provide important funding for City of Hope’s many research projects under the direction of Dr. Sumanta K. Pal. Dr. Pal is a unique individual; although only 44 years old, he has already participated in the publication of over 100 scientific articles, and regularly presents at international symposia on the treatment of urologic malignancies. City of Hope has, for decades, been recognized for its groundbreaking research in many different cancers, diabetes and other life-threatening diseases, and for setting the standard for compassionate patient care. City of Hope is a tax exempt organization organized under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

Let's be Frank

In August, 2011, Mr. Frank Di Bella was diagnosed with bladder cancer that had spread to his lungs, ribs and spine; he received a prognosis of just 2 to 3 months from a local hospital. After speaking with some colleagues and hearing about City of Hope, Frank went for a second opinion.  More than 10 years after receiving that drastic news, he is doing more than surviving: he continues to live life to its fullest extent. His well-being is due, in large part, to the innovative approaches of his physician, Dr. Sumanta K. Pal, and the amazing staff at City of Hope. Knowing that Dr. Pal has saved his life, Frank has made it a priority to raise meaningful funds to support Dr. Pal’s ongoing research efforts and the outstanding care given to all patients from the City of Hope staff. Dr. Pal is involved in important work that seeks to better understand how cancers develop and become metastatic, how to better predict cancer recurrence, and how to better treat cancer with fewer side effects. In 2015,  Frank decided to rally his peers to create Orange County’s first gala fundraiser to benefit City of Hope. The event was a huge success raising more than $1.6M. 

Gala Host Committee

HONORARY COMMITTEE