The WOL 2025: A Night to Remember
By Brianna Enciso, Development & Operations Manager
Dr. Matthew Lurin, event host & founder
Photo by Kenneth Ho
On November 13th, whisky lovers and longtime supporters gathered in New York City for the 8th annual WOLF event, hosted by Dr. Matthew J. Lurin. From the moment the first dram was poured, guests knew they were in for a memorable evening one filled with exceptional spirits, lively conversation, and a shared sense of purpose.
This year's lineup was truly extraordinary, offering an unforgettable range of rare and exceptional whiskies. The evening opened with a remarkable blend featuring primarily Rosebank from the 1940s, followed by a pair of Springbanks—including a 1965—and an additional Campbeltown whisky from Glenscotia, all aged over 20 years.
Click image to see more event photos.
Guests also enjoyed an impressive selection of high-aged peated Islay whiskies from Ardbeg, Bowmore, and Laphroaig, highlighted by the heavily peated Octomore featured at this year's whisky festival on Islay, as well as distinctive peated expressions from Talisker. The variety continued with Tobermory's 27-year-old, newly launched 21-year-olds from both Tamdhu and Glenmorangie, and rare contributions from independent bottlers such as Blackadder's 29-year-old Tamnavulin and Maison du Whisky's 28-year-old Glenburgie.
Proof and Wood added to the excitement with their Tumblin' Dice finished in Apple Jack casks and the debut of Matt's Mitt. The Cigar Hours also showcased special releases from Dalmore, Glenfiddich, and Highland Park, complemented by additional bottles generously brought by guests and brands from the dinner.
Altogether, it was an incredible assortment with something exceptional for every guest to enjoy.
Soon after the main event (at Keens Steakhouse), the evening moved to the famous Carnegie Club, where guests paired additional drams with specially selected cigars. Highlights included rare releases from Dalmore, Glenfiddich, and Highland Park, as well as bottles brought by guests and the event brands an amazing assortment with something for every whisky enthusiast to enjoy.
Thanks to our participant's generosity in both the event and the raffle, a little over $12,000, making this year's WOLF the most successful since the pandemic. Every contribution directly supports The Life Raft Group's work in research, advocacy, and patient resources for individuals and families facing GIST.
A Big Win for GIST: Texas Hold’em Makes a Mark
By Brian Morello, Director of Development
Click on the image to see more event photos!
Brian Morello, creator of The Life Raft Group’s newest fundraiser Texas Hold’Em.
On November 20 something special happened at the Oakland Elks Lodge #2167. Fifty poker lovers, friends, and longtime supporters came together for The Life Raft Group’s first-ever Texas Hold’em Poker Tournament, and the energy in the room was unforgettable. The event was hosted by Mike’s Poker Tables, who promoted the tournament to their own network of players for this new event that I proposed. Their partnership helped create a lively mix of seasoned players and first-time supporters, and the combination made the night feel both welcoming and competitive.
From the moment the cards hit the table, the night felt like classic LRG: good food, genuine connection, and a shared commitment to helping people facing GIST. Players cheered each other on, swapped stories between hands, and showed the kind of generosity that defines this community.
After hours of spirited play and more than a few dramatic showdowns, one champion claimed the top spot. The win came with well-earned bragging rights and set a high bar for next year’s competition.
Because of everyone who showed up, played, donated, and believed in the cause, the tournament raised nearly $3,000 in net proceeds. This support goes straight to work, helping patients get answers, access resources, and feel less alone as they navigate a diagnosis that can change everything.
To every player, volunteer, and supporter who made the evening such a success, thank you. You proved that a fundraiser can be both fun and deeply meaningful.
The best part is that this was only the beginning. With such an incredible first year, planning for the next tournament has already begun. Expect bigger tables, more friendly competition, and even more opportunities to make a real difference for the GIST community.
Use YOUR Passion to Support the GIST Community!
What makes events like WOLF and Texas Hold’em so meaningful is that they are born from personal passion. For Dr. Matthew Lurin, WOLF grew out of his deep appreciation for whisky and his desire to bring people together around an interest he genuinely loves, while also honoring his father’s experience with GIST. For Brian Morello, creating the Texas Hold’em tournament was about turning connection, fun, and friendly competition into real support for patients and families facing GIST. These fundraisers remind us that the most powerful impact often starts with a personal interest paired with a commitment to help others. If you have an idea, a hobby, or a cause close to your heart, you can do the same. With our guidance and support, you can start a fundraiser of your own and help make a meaningful difference for the GIST community.
Please contact Brian Morello at bmorello@liferaftgroup.org if you have fundraising ideas.
See what other community members have done to raise funds for our community:
Learn how GISTers, their loved ones and other GIST advocates
are using their passion for sports to raise funds for
The Life Raft Group.
Click the image to read about this program.
