It’s become a tradition for many Malibuites and this year they’ll be celebrating their 32nd year — it all shakes down as the John Wayne Cancer Institute Auxiliary presents its annual Odyssey Ball. The well-heeled and fashionable will gather at the Four Seasons Beverly Wilshire Hotel for a night of fun and fundraising.
“The Best Is Yet to Come” casino-themed evening honors Steven J. O’Day, MD, Professor of Medical Oncology, Director of Immuno-oncology and Director of Clinical Research at the John Wayne Cancer Institute at Providence Saint John’s Health Center with the “The Duke” Special Service Award. The evening will feature a VIP cocktail party, casino games and prizes, followed by dinner, awards, entertainment and dancing.
Also on the honor roll: Actor Vince Vaughn. Vaughn has hit the A-list thee ways — as an actor, producer and screenwriter. A Chicago native, Vaughn first caught the attention of critics and audiences in Doug Liman’s cult classic “Swingers” (“Vegas Baby, Vegas!”).
He was most recently seen working along Malibu’s Mel Gibson in the WWII drama “Hacksaw Ridge,” which was nominated for six Academy Awards as well as three Golden Globes. What’s more, he wrapped production on Craig Zahler’s “Brawl in Cell Block 99.” He also has been added to the list of cool dudes who appeared in the critically acclaimed HBO series “True Detective.” Vaughn’s film credits include everything from goofy comedies to serious drama: “Wedding Crashers,” “The Internship,” “The Watch,” “The Dilemma,” “Couples Retreat,” “Four Christmases,” “The Breakup,” “Old School,” “Mr. and Mrs. Smith,” “Rudy” and “The Lost World: Jurassic Park 2,” to name a few.
His “‘True Grit’ Award” recognizes individuals who embody the American values that were characteristic of John Wayne,” said Anita Swift, auxiliary president. “We are honored to celebrate Vince Vaughn for his generosity, commitment and support of America’s servicemen and women.”
Since 1981, the descendants of John Wayne have been committed to pioneering cancer research in memory of their father. The courageous and hard working researchers at the John Wayne Cancer Institute have made numerous discoveries that have changed the way cancer is detected, diagnosed and treated — not only in the LA area but around the world. The institute continues to spearhead new research advances, while training the next generation of leaders in the fight against cancer through its renowned Surgical Oncology Fellowship Program. Over the years, the organization has raised millions to, in their words, “make cancer a thing of the past.”