Myra Kraft devoted her professional career to philanthropic pursuits in communities across New England and around the world. For more than 40 years, she was an inimitable presence within the philanthropic community of Greater Boston. She adopted a hands-on approach to philanthropy, making a personal impact in the lives of all who she touched.

As Myra battled her own cancer, she directed the efforts of the New England Patriots Charitable Foundation to help raise the awareness about cancer prevention and the importance of early detection. Under her watch, the foundation teamed up with multiple Boston hospitals with expertise in cancer treatment, launching a season-long initiative to “Kick Cancer.” Health care has long been a priority of Robert and Myra’s philanthropic efforts. In 1984, they established the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute Kraft Family Blood Donor Center, and in 2011, they announced a partnership with Partners HealthCare to launch The Kraft Center for Community Health, a national center for leadership and training in community health.

Myra was recognized as one of Boston’s most influential women for her lifetime commitment to philanthropic endeavors. Her personal influence and charitable contributions will have a long-lasting impact on Boston, and her generous support of Partners HealthCare institutions has earned her a place of recognition within the hospital community.

Mass General honors 100 individuals and groups for their diverse contributions to the fight against cancer.

There is strength in numbers and Massachusetts General Hospital Cancer Center proves this each year. the one hundred is the Cancer Center’s annual fundraiser, honoring 100 individuals and groups whose diligence and discoveries, philanthropy and passion have helped advance the fight against cancer. Funds raised at the gala support research, patient care, education and community outreach programs.  Meet the Honorees.