In a heartfelt homage to the late Bob Saget, the Scleroderma Research Foundation’s (SRF) annual event Cool Comedy • Hot Cuisine, as part of the 19th Annual New York Comedy Festival, brought laughter and generosity to the Edison Ballroom on November 8, 2023. This significant evening not only celebrated the enduring spirit of Saget, a relentless advocate for those affected by scleroderma, but also exemplified the power of community and compassion in raising over $1.2 million for the foundation.
The SRF, a 501(c)(3) organization established in 1987, has been at the forefront of scleroderma research, funding scientific endeavors aimed at innovative treatments and, ultimately, a cure for the autoimmune disease. Continuing the tradition, this year’s Cool Comedy • Hot Cuisine served both as a tribute to Saget’s tireless work and as a magnet for support and awareness.
Hosted by the quick-witted Jeff Ross, the event saw a line-up of acclaimed performers. Surprise performances from stand-up stars like Ronny Chieng and piercingly comical sets by Nikki Glaser and Michael Che had the audience in stitches. However, it was the poignant performance by Adam Duritz and David Immerglück of the Counting Crows that struck a chord, especially with their rendition of “A Long December,” a favorite of Saget’s.
One of the most touching moments of the evening was the presentation of the inaugural Bob Saget Legacy Award by SRF founding board member Susan Feniger to Caroline Hirsch. Hirsch, the founder and owner of Carolines and the New York Comedy Festival, has been an unwavering ally in the fight against scleroderma, lending her venues and support to SRF’s fundraising efforts for over two decades. Her acceptance speech echoed the night’s sentiments, honoring Saget’s lasting impact and the collective resolve to continue his mission.
Saget’s wife, Kelly Rizzo, added to the emotional resonance of the event by presenting a tribute video that celebrated her husband’s commitment to scleroderma research, a cause close to his heart since losing his sister Gay to the disease in 1994. Saget’s philanthropic legacy was embodied in the camaraderie and generosity of the evening, which saw over 500 guests, including celebrities and influencers, coming together to support the cause.
SRF’s enduring relationship with Saget began in 1991 and saw him rise from an attendee to a performer and eventually a key figure in organizing and producing Cool Comedy • Hot Cuisine. Over the years, Saget’s involvement helped raise over $25 million for scleroderma research, a testament to his devotion and the foundation’s commitment to finding a cure.
In remembering Saget, each laugh and each dollar raised during the tribute event carry forward a legacy of hope and support for those living with scleroderma. It’s a testament to the belief that through dedicated research and unwavering support, a future without scleroderma is within reach.
For more information on the SRF and its mission, visit srfcure.org.
