INDIANAPOLIS — The 13th annual Chuckstrong Tailgate Gala raised more than $1.1 million for research at the Indiana University Melvin and Bren Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center.
Hosted by Indianapolis Colts Owner Jim Irsay and his family and former Colts Head Coach Chuck Pagano on April 11 at the Indiana Farm Bureau Football Center, the 2025 Chuckstrong Tailgate Gala brought total giving to more than $16 million for cancer research since the Chuckstrong initiative launched in 2012.
The Chuckstrong initiative has enabled the cancer center to accelerate cancer research by recruiting top-level researchers to IU from around the country and purchasing sophisticated laboratory instruments used by researchers to make scientific advances against the disease. This year's Chuckstrong theme was Draft Day, with attendees learning about talented researchers recently "drafted," or recruited, to the center.
The nearly 400 guests included cancer research supporters, Colts fans, cancer survivors, researchers and philanthropists. Notable guests included former Colts players such as running back and Pro Football Hall of Fame member Edgerrin James, defensive end Jon Hand, and Colts Ring of Honor member and wide receiver Bill Brooks.
"I'm honored that the Irsay family allows me to return to Indy every year to support this cause," Pagano said. "This event helps ensure my mantra that no one fights alone continues. My goal is to fund research that allows people who hear those terrifying words, 'You have cancer,' to also immediately hear, 'But there is hope.'"
During an on-stage conversation, Pagano chatted with cancer survivor and Pro Football Hall of Fame quarterback Jim Kelly about his cancer experience. Kelly played for the Buffalo Bills from 1986 to 1996, taking the team to four consecutive Super Bowls from 1990 to 1993.
WISH-TV Anchor Anthony Calhoun, left, and Chuck Pagano at the 2025 Chuckstrong Tailgate Gala. | Photo by Mika Mokko, IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center
"I am grateful that my story of perseverance has helped others facing difficult times. During my cancer journey, I felt the love of those who prayed for me and sent me encouragement," Kelly said. "I agree with Chuck Pagano when he says, 'No one fights alone.' I see that the Chuckstrong initiative is about investing in research that will help those with cancer live longer and spend more time with their loved ones. I say, make a difference today for someone who is fighting for their tomorrow. Chuckstrong is an awesome example of this, and I’m glad to be here to support Chuck and the Indianapolis community."
The impact of IU Simon Comprehensive Cancer Center research was palpable in a remarkable video story about Mark Heiny, MD, PhD. An IU School of Medicine graduate (class of 1989), Heiny is a retired pediatric hematologist who served as director of the Riley Hospital for Children Hemophilia and Thrombosis Center for 17 years. Heiny went from physician to patient when he was diagnosed with lymphoma in 2020. He became the first patient to enroll in a clinical trial developed by Huda Salman, MD, PhD, and received first-in-human CAR T-cells manufactured in IU’s laboratory in Indianapolis.
"The funds raised through Chuckstrong are a critical investment in our cancer center's research infrastructure," said Kelvin Lee, MD, director of the cancer center, H.H. Gregg Professor of Oncology and associate dean for cancer research at the IU School of Medicine. "These gifts help us recruit and retain leading scientists, purchase and maintain shared laboratory instruments and fund the development of clinical trials that change outcomes for patients. We are incredibly grateful to the Irsay family and the Paganos for their support."
Top-level "touchdown" sponsors for this year's Chuckstrong Tailgate Gala include Jim Irsay & Family, DEEM Mechanical and Electrical Company, Huntington Bank, Republic Airways, Lori Efroymson Aguilera and Sergio Aguilera, BJ and Lori Nichols and Bob and Lisa Colver, JLA Fresh Solutions, Tom Bennett, Sol and Kay Raso, and the Friends and Family of Jeff Schwarz.
Pagano's story
When Chuck Pagano shared his diagnosis of acute promyelocytic leukemia in September 2012, the Chuckstrong movement quickly began and provided an opportunity for Indianapolis to visibly support Pagano as his team rallied and marched toward the playoffs. Pagano underwent treatment at IU under the guidance of Larry D. Cripe, MD, a hematologist, cancer center researcher and professor of medicine at the IU School of Medicine. Pagano returned to his head coaching duties on Dec. 24, 2012 — a day that inspired and captivated many who have been touched by cancer. More than a decade later, Pagano remains cancer free.