PRESS RELEASE
Voices Center for Resilience is hosting its annual Building Bridges Luncheon on Wednesday, April 9 at the Country Club of New Canaan from 12:00pm to 2:00pm. This year we are delighted to recognize New Canaan resident Gunnar Esiason with the 2025 Building Bridges Award for making a profound difference in the lives of those impacted by rare diseases.
Gunnar, son of NFL legend Boomer Esiason, was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis (CF) when he was 2 years old. As a Rare Disease Patient Leader he has dedicated his adult life to empowering patients, shaping health policy, and advancing early-stage drug development. His advocacy, coupled with the remarkable work of the Boomer Esiason Foundation—established by his father during Gunnar’s childhood—has profoundly improved the quality of life for those battling the disease. Their efforts have contributed to the development of a life-altering drug that has eliminated the symptoms and extended the life-span of 90% of CF patients.
Jeremy Schaap, ESPN’s award-winning sports anchor and reporter will moderate a conversation with Gunnar. Jeremy recently interviewed the Esiason family for the inspiring ESPN E:60 documentary Second Wind that told the story of Gunnar’s journey and his family’s perseverance to find a cure. Jeremy is renowned for his in-depth storytelling and investigative reporting. With a career spanning many decades, Jeremy has covered some of the most compelling stories in sports.
The Building Bridges Award honors individuals who make a difference in the lives of others. Mary Fetchet, VOICES Founding Director noted, “We are proud to recognize Gunnar Esiason for his extraordinary courage and unwavering dedication to helping those with Cystic Fibrosis and other rare diseases. His journey of resilience, advocacy, and support for those facing similar challenges is truly inspiring.”
Guests will be treated to a musical performance by composer and songwriter, David Friedman and concert and cabaret artist Samantha Talora.
Join us for this inspirational event! Sponsorship opportunities and tickets for the Building Bridges Luncheon are available at www.VoicesCenter.org.
For inquiries contact: Sarah Green at sgreen@voicescenter.org or call 203-966-3911.
From 9/11 to today, Voices Center for Resilience has provided long-term support that promotes mental health care and wellness for thousands of victims’ families, responders, and survivors, while collaborating with partners to help communities prepare for, respond to, and recover from tragedy.
