More than 500 friends and supporters of the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation gathered together at Cipriani 42nd Street for a festive evening at Greater New York's 14th annual Breath of Life Gala. It was a night to remember as generous donors collectively raised $1.4 million for vital CF research, care, and medical programs. During the event, acclaimed news reporter Scott Pelley was given the Breath of Life Award for his dedication to the Foundation's mission.
“In our community, Scott Pelley's enduring and tireless dedication is legendary,” said Michael Boyle, M.D., senior vice president of therapeutics development at the CF Foundation, who presented the award to Pelley. “With no direct connection to CF, Scott was inspired to support our mission because of a friend of the family who had the disease.”
For more than a decade, Pelley made thousands of people more aware of cystic fibrosis -- conveying how challenging this disease is and the continued need for support. He did news broadcasts about cystic fibrosis, welcomed attendees to the North American Cystic Fibrosis Conference, and emceed the New York Breath of Life Gala for over a decade, making it one of the most successful CF fundraising events in the country. He also supported the Metro D.C. Chapter's Breath of Life Gala.
“So passionate was Pelley about helping those battling CF that he once caught a late flight back from a breaking news story in Europe to emcee this gala,” Boyle said. “The thoughtfulness, compassion, and integrity that have distinguished Scott's news career have also graced all of his efforts on behalf of people living with this disease.”
Pelley, his wife, Jane, son, Reece, and daughter, Blair, have all selflessly embraced the Foundation's mission. Pelley is among the most experienced reporters in American journalism, having served as a correspondent for 60 Minutes and as an anchor and managing editor of the CBS Evening News. For almost 30 years, he has covered the major stories of our times.
Watch this tribute to Pelley, which was played at the Gala.