Lou Malnati's Raises Over $480K For Cancer Research

BUFFALO GROVE, IL — Last month, Lou Malnati's Pizzeria raised more than $480,000 to support the Lou and Jean Malnati Brain Tumor Institute at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, Gilda's Club Chicago, and Pickles Group.

The Buffalo Grove-based business generated the money as part of the 53rd annual Cancer Research Benefit, held on Sept. 27 at The Matrix Club in Naperville, as well as the month-long Dessert to Donate campaign, and in-store donations at all Lou Malnati's locations.

"For over five decades, our community has stood with us in supporting cancer research and patient care," said Marc Malnati, owner of Lou Malnati's. "This year's $480,000 will fund innovative research at the Malnati Brain Tumor Institute, as well as vital programs at Gilda's Club Chicago and Pickles Group. The advances being made are extraordinary, and we're honored to play a part in supporting this life-saving work. We're deeply thankful to everyone who donated, attended our benefit, or contributed throughout September, your generosity makes all of this possible."

In 1971, Lou Malnati first organized a benefit to honor his friend who battled cancer, according to the company. That effort became an annual affair and has grown into one of Chicago's longest-running charitable traditions. The Lou Malnati's Cancer Research Foundation has raised over $4 million in the last five years alone, funding critical advances in cancer treatment and patient care.

"The Malnati Brain Tumor Institute is at the forefront of pioneering research that saves and changes lives," Dr. James P. Chandler, surgical director at the Malnati Brain Tumor Institute of the Lurie Cancer Center, said. "As a neurosurgeon at MBTI for 30 years, I've witnessed firsthand how these advances, fueled by the Malnati family and their supporters, have transformed outcomes for patients and their loved ones. Every step forward brings us closer to breakthroughs – treatments that are less invasive, outcomes that are better, and ultimately, cures that once felt out of reach."

For more information, visit www.LMCB.org.