Celebrating the 16th Annual Derby Day and $25,000 Raised for Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center

On June 7th, riders, families, and friends gathered at Duncraven Stables for the 16th Annual Derby Day, raising $25,000 for Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center. Hosted by Katie Benson in honor of her late husband, Jack, the milestone event gave spectators and supporters a platform to make real-time pledges that directly fuel life-changing programs and support services for local cancer patients.

Leading the charge as the event's top fundraiser was breast cancer survivor Lauren Gould, who raised $5,000 on her own. Her employer, Sanofi, matched her efforts dollar-for-dollar for a total impact of $10,000. Gould, who boards her horse Evening Gown ("Evie") at Van Dolah Stables in Stockton, shared how deeply personal the cause is for her—crediting her bond with Evie for saving her life during her cancer journey.

Combining community spirit with high-stakes riding, Derby Day continues to transform personal tributes into powerful support for cancer care.

Pictured (left to right): Katie Benson, founder Briarwood Derby Day, Lauren Gould, Jill Pelonero, Director of Hunterdon Regional Cancer Center, Phil Beekman, Senior Vice President, Hunterdon Health Foundation.

About the Foundation: Hunterdon Health Foundation is the fundraising organization for Hunterdon Health System. It receives support from individuals, corporations, foundations, and other sources to assist Hunterdon Medical Center and its affiliated non-profit organizations in fulfilling their mission to meet the community’s need for high-quality healthcare.