A No-Brainer: David Spade Brings the Laughs to Broach Foundation Gala Benefiting Brain-Cancer Research

Jeff Byrd, Jamie Broach Byrd, Harrison Broach, Parker Broach, Oliver Broach

IN A REFRESHING departure from typical gala programming, the Broach Foundation invited David Spade for cocktails and comedy, all in the name of brain-cancer research.

The comedian took to the mic at River Oaks Country Club and entertained hundreds of supporters at the 12th annual gala benefiting the nonprofit, which was established in honor of James Broach. Studio Megan Davis outfitted the ballroom in shades of blue and teal, and selected floral centerpieces of white hydrangeas.

Fred Lang of MD Anderson's neurosurgery department — and who is in charge of the hospital's clinical and translational research laboratory — spoke about the new “biological therapies” being developed to treat brain tumors, and how those therapies have previously been underfunded. To date, the Broach Foundation has given more than $6 million to fund clinical trials to stop the most aggressive form of brain cancer, glioblastoma.

Then Spade, who happily mingled and took photos with guests during the cocktail hour, lightened the mood with an act full of his signature self-deprecating humor and sarcasm. Laughter truly is the best medicine!