20 Years of Hope: JMCDF Celebrates 20th Anniversary at Gala

Sep 8

On Friday, August 28, the Jack McGovern Coats’ Disease Foundation celebrated a remarkable milestone: 20 years of hope, progress, and commitment to finding a cure for Coats’ Disease.

Held at the beautiful City Club of San Francisco, the 20th Anniversary Celebration Gala brought together family, friends, physicians, researchers, supporters, board members, and members of the Coats’ Disease community for an unforgettable evening centered around one simple message: Thank you.

For two decades, the Foundation has been fueled by the generosity, dedication, and belief of so many people who have helped make our work possible. The Gala was an opportunity to recognize those who have been part of our journey and to celebrate all that we have accomplished together.

Celebrating 20 Years of Impact

Since its founding in 2006 by Tina and Ed McGovern following their son Jack’s diagnosis with Coats’ Disease, the Foundation has grown from a family's desire to make a difference into an international organization supporting research, raising awareness, and connecting patients and families around the world.

Over the past 20 years, JMCDF has advanced research, supported physicians and researchers, expanded education and awareness, and built a community for those affected by Coats’ Disease. The Foundation's growing international reach shows what can happen when a community comes together around a shared vision.

The Gala gave us the opportunity to pause and reflect on that progress — while also looking ahead to what comes next.

Honoring a Founding Physician

One of the evening’s most meaningful moments was the recognition of Dr. Mike Jumper as the Foundation’s Founding Physician.

Dr. Jumper has played an extraordinary role in the Foundation’s history and in the McGovern family’s journey. His early involvement helped shape the Foundation’s commitment to advancing knowledge and improving outcomes for individuals living with Coats’ Disease.

Honoring Dr. Jumper during our 20th anniversary year was a special way to recognize the lasting impact of his expertise, compassion, and dedication to the Coats’ Disease community.

An Evening to Remember

The evening was emceed by renowned broadcaster and longtime Bay Area personality Joe Fonzi, who brought his warmth, energy, and personal connection to vision loss to the program.

Guests began the evening with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres before gathering for a seated dinner and program. Throughout the evening, stories of the Foundation’s beginnings, accomplishments, and hopes for the future reminded everyone in the room why this work matters.

And, of course, the celebration didn't end with dinner. Guests took to the dance floor as DJ Niall of Four Leaf Entertainment kept the music going and brought the evening to a joyful close.

As we celebrate 20 years, we are filled with gratitude for where we have been and excitement for where we are going. The journey continues — and we are so grateful to have you with us.