July 25, 2023
The Lupus Research Alliance extends heartfelt condolences to the wife, Susan, and children of our former honorary Board member and legendary artist, singer, and philanthropist Tony Bennett. Tony was an active supporter for our legacy organization, the SLE Lupus Foundation, as a friend of its founder Susan Golick, a pioneer in lupus research and awareness who lost her 45-year battle with lupus in 2016.
Tony championed the lupus cause with the power of his peerless voice, bringing his inimitable warmth, kindness, and elegance to engage audiences young and old at the organization’s largest fundraiser, the annual Gala. His presence expanded the organization’s following, helping fuel resources needed to advance the finest lupus research that could improve treatment and drive toward a cure.
As recently as 2014 after the release of the Grammy-winning album Cheek to Cheek, Tony generously performed at the Lupus Gala, this time introduced with a special recorded message by none other than his friend and collaborator Lady Gaga. With talent larger than life, Tony brought the entire audience to its feet.
We are honored to call Tony Bennett a friend of more than 30 years and will especially cherish the memories of the many performances he gave on behalf of the lupus community nationwide.
Richard K. DeScherer, Ira Akselrad and the Board and Staff of the Lupus Research Alliance
