Matt Gephardt Will Receive Ragab Spirit of Hope Award
The local business owner will be honored for his advocacy at the 13th annual Believe Ball on October 3.
Updated on Sept. 22, 2026 in Philanthropy
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Matt Gephardt, a childhood cancer survivor, will receive the Ragab Spirit of Hope award during the upcoming 13th annual Believe Ball. The ceremony, held in Atlanta, celebrates those who have made significant contributions to the childhood cancer community.
Why it matters
The honor recognizes Gephardt's long-term commitment to pediatric oncology support after his own successful recovery from rhabdomyosarcoma. His journey reflects the profound impact of specialized medical care and continued advocacy for cancer research funding.
CURE Childhood Cancer has raised more than $14 million through its annual Believe Ball. Matt Gephardt, who serves as a co-owner of seven Village Burger restaurants, previously dedicated six years to the organization's board of directors.
The players
Matt Gephardt
He is a childhood cancer survivor and co-owner of seven Village Burger restaurants in the Atlanta area.
CURE Childhood Cancer
This organization is a non-profit entity dedicated to funding research and providing support for children with cancer.
Dr. Abdel Ragab
He was the first pediatric oncologist at Emory University and a pioneer in treating childhood cancers.
The details
Diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma as a 17-month-old, Gephardt was given a 10% chance of survival in 1971 before undergoing transformative treatment that included surgery and radiation. The award is named for Dr. Abdel Ragab, who served as Emory University's first pediatric oncologist and led Gephardt's original clinical care.
Timeline
1971: Dr. Ragab treated Gephardt for rhabdomyosarcoma.
2017: Gephardt reunited with Dr. Ragab at a CURE ceremony.
2025: Gephardt underwent a full hip replacement.
October 3, 2026: Gephardt receives the Ragab Spirit of Hope award.
Market Landscape
This recognition underscores the critical role of private philanthropy in sustaining the medical infrastructure established by institutions like Emory University's pediatric oncology program. By bridging the gap between clinical history and community support, the event reinforces a sustainable model for specialized healthcare funding.
The Believe Ball directly fuels community-based programs that assist families navigating pediatric cancer diagnoses. Attendees and donors can expect their contributions to support the organization's ongoing research and patient family advocacy efforts.
The takeaway
Gephardt's story demonstrates how surviving pediatric illness can evolve into a lifelong commitment to giving back to the medical community. His journey from a 10% survival rate to a community leader highlights the tangible long-term impact of breakthrough pediatric care.
Further reading
Learn more about local support initiatives on the Atlanta Philanthropy section page.
More information
For more information on the event and the organization's mission, visit the CURE Childhood Cancer organization portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Rough Draft Atlanta.
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