2026 Lending Hearts Gala presented PNC, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center & Pirates Charities

The 2026 Lending Hearts Gala presented by PNC, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center & Pirates Charities took place Thursday, February 19th at the Fairmont Pittsburgh. Once again, we extend great thanks to our wonderful emcee, Mr. Bob Pompeani, for his great generosity and support in being part of this event each year.

Lending Hearts had the great privilege of presenting this year's Lending Hearts Friend Award to cancer survivor and owner of Chip Ganassi Racing, Mr. Chip Ganassi. Mr. Ganassi has fought through his journey, but whenever he has been called upon for support, he has always lent his heart. We are appreciative to Mr. Ganassi for his graciousness, and lending his heart to us!

At every gala, we also recognize one of our incredible Lending Hearts Families. This year, we are very pleased to share our friend, Penelope, and her wonderful family. Penelope has profound strength and resilience, but when you meet her family, it isn't hard to understand from where she garners that strength! Please take a moment to read Penelope's story by clicking HERE.

In addition to our Title Sponsors, PNC, UPMC Hillman Cancer Center and Pirates Charites, this great event is made possible, in part, by Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield, Allegheny Health Network, Amgen and Bristol Myers Squibb.

We'd also like to recognize and thank our additional sponsors. Without them, this event is not possible. Thank you...

Mario Lemieux Foundation, 84 Lumber, Daiichi Sankyo, AstraZeneca, Genmab, Abbvie, Duquesne University, Exelixis, Johnson & Johnson, Joshua E. Shapira & Family, Schneider Downs and Simkovich Concussion Institute.

To see all Gala photos, please click HERE.

Please take a moment to watch the following speeches made by Chip Ganassi and Penelope's mother, Kylie.

We are thankful to everyone for making this year's event extremely special and successful. Thank you to our many students and faculty volunteers from Duquesne University's Rangos School of Health. Thank you to everyone who generously provided items for our silent auction, Golden Ticket and wine pull. Thank you to all our guests who came and supported.

We can't wait to celebrate with everyone again next year!

The following video about Chip Ganassi was shown before he took the stage...