No Laughing Matter 2026
A Night of Comedy. A Mission That Couldn’t Be More Serious.
Thursday, October 22, 2026 | New York Athletic Club | 7PM – 10PM
Join the Children’s Brain Tumor Project Foundation at their annual “No Laughing Matter” fundraising gala in NYC.
This unforgettable evening brings together families, friends, researchers, supporters and some of the biggest names in comedy and entertainment—all united by one goal: finding better treatments for children with brain tumors.
LAUGHTER FOR A SERIOUS CAUSE
For families facing a pediatric brain tumor diagnosis, there is no time to wait.
Led by Dr. Mark Souweidane and Dr. Jeffrey Greenfield, the Children’s Brain Tumor Project at Weill Cornell Medicine is dedicated to advancing research for children with rare and often devastating brain tumors—particularly those for which treatment options remain severely limited.
No Laughing Matter helps make that work possible.
Each year, this signature benefit combines an important mission with an extraordinary night of entertainment, bringing our community together to celebrate progress, honor the children and families who inspire our work, and raise critical funds to move research forward.
OUR HEADLINER
STARRING ZARNA GARG
Award-winning comedian, actress and bestselling author Zarna Garg headlines No Laughing Matter 2026, bringing her unmistakable voice and wildly funny perspective to the New York Athletic Club stage.
The evening will also feature special performances, inspiring stories from the Children’s Brain Tumor Project community, and a few surprises along the way.
OUR HONOREE
FASHION DESIGNER GRETCHEN SCOTT
This year, the Children’s Brain Tumor Project Foundation is proud to honor Gretchen Scott, Founder and CEO of Gretchen Scott Designs, for her longstanding philanthropy and the important role she played in the earliest days of what would become the Children’s Brain Tumor Project.
Fifteen years ago, Scott began advocating for children with brain tumors in honor of her young neighbor and family friend, Elizabeth Minter, who had been diagnosed with an incurable brain tumor. Her support of Elizabeth’s Hope helped build momentum around an effort that ultimately grew into the Children’s Brain Tumor Project Foundation and helped support the development of the research program at Weill Cornell Medicine.
At No Laughing Matter 2026, we celebrate a remarkable full-circle story—and the difference one person can make when she decides to act.
MEDIA AND EVENT RESOURCES
No Laughing Matter 2026 Electronic Press Kit
Members of the media, sponsors, partners and supporters are invited to access event information and downloadable materials below.
