Dr. Draw and Michael O’Grady Are Set to Ignite the Stage at Fight To End Cancer FTEC2025
The Fight To End Cancer (FTEC) is proud to announce that two of Canada’s most dynamic performers—Eugene “Dr. Draw” and Michael O’Grady—will headline the entertainment lineup at the FTEC 2025 Charity Boxing Gala on Saturday, May 31st, 2025 Fight To End Cancer Gala at The Old Mill Toronto.
🎻 Eugene “Dr. Draw”: Electric Violin Virtuoso
Eugene Draw, known professionally as Dr. Draw, is an internationally acclaimed electric violinist renowned for his high-energy performances that blend classical elegance with modern edge. His unique style transcends genres, captivating audiences worldwide. Dr. Draw’s previous appearances at FTEC events have left lasting impressions, including a memorable collaboration with world-renowned beatboxer Scott Jackson. His return to the FTEC stage promises another unforgettable experience.
🎤 Michael O’Grady: Celtic Music Sensation
Joining Dr. Draw is the incredibly talented Michael O’Grady, a celebrated Celtic musician based in Toronto with a global footprint and a powerful stage presence. O’Grady’s rich, soulful sounds and dynamic performances have earned him acclaim in the music community. His collaboration with Dr. Draw is set to create a one-of-a-kind performance that will elevate the entertainment experience at FTEC 2025.
From Spotlight to Ringside: Entertainment Legends Join the Fight To End Cancer
The collaboration between Dr. Draw and Michael O’Grady perfectly embodies the spirit of the Fight To End Cancer—uniting world-class talent to support a powerful cause. In previous years, we’ve been fortunate to witness unforgettable performances, including beatbox sensation Scott Jackson, whose artistry left a lasting impression on our stage.
This year, we’re pumped to introduce a new musical fusion that promises to be just as electrifying. Together, Dr. Draw and Michael O’Grady will deliver an inspiring performance that highlights the unifying power of music in the Fight To End Cancer.
Founded in 2011 by Jennifer Huggins, a driving force in the sport of boxing and no stranger to the entertainment world, the Fight To End Cancer gala has always blended glamour with purpose. Before launching the global FTEC movement, Jennifer toured internationally as an illusionist assistant and choreographer in major stage productions. Her deep ties to the performance industry have brought a unique flair to the gala, making it one of the most dynamic fundraising events in the country.
Since its inception, the Fight To End Cancer has showcased a variety of top-tier entertainers, from the magic of Richard Forget, to pop sensation Karl Wolf, and numerous surprise acts that have graced the stage since the inaugural event in 2012. The gala has also featured renowned hosts such as Ben Mulroney, Steve Patterson, and beloved performers from Jennifer’s entertainment tours, like Dick Joiner. These performances have become a hallmark of the evening, adding excitement, elegance, and emotional impact to the cause.
Don’t miss the chance to witness Dr. Draw and Michael O’Grady light up the stage at the FTEC2025 Charity Boxing Gala. Join us for an unforgettable night of music, boxing, and community spirit—all in the Fight To End Cancer.
Photo Credit: Laura Polischuik Photography
“We’ve all lost far too many loved ones to cancer. It’s our responsibility to invest in the future and make a difference where we can! With the support of events like Fight To End Cancer, we are that much closer to seeing the end to this horrible disease. We’re proud to be partnering up with the Fight To End Cancer! We can’t wait to step into the ring to support a cause that affects us all!”
~ Eugene Draw and Crew
Photo Credit: Rebecca Freeman; Scott Jackson and Dr. Draw at the 2018 gala
Dr. Draw and his team are true heroes in the Fight To End Cancer and we couldn’t be more grateful to have them on the team! We are always looking for more people ready to take on the fight and if you’re interested please Contact Us and Join The Fight! Together, we can end cancer once and for all!
Check out their incredible music below…
Eugene Draw, Photo Credit Virgil Barrow
ABOUT EUGENE DRAW
Dr. Draw is known as the first violinist to venture from rock and classical into electronic music culture. His style is difficult to describe as his history with music and culture spans an eccentric lifetime. From playing for royalty in Prague, to creating near chaos at the Toronto Beaches Jazz Festival, to playing luxury brand events like Chloé and Dom Pérignon, Dr. Draw inspires kudos wherever he plays. Lately, his reputation is growing eastward. Performances have included playing in Singapore, Taiwan, Sri Lanka, and several Louis Vuitton events in Hong Kong, Malaysia, and South Korea.
Performing in such frenetic locales energizes the performer time and time again, allowing him to repeatedly “creatively interact with cultures all across the world.” The result is a constantly evolving musical style that brings together the seemingly disparate elements of classical violin, jazz-rock fusion, folk, and pop, into a riveting masala that feeds the soul and invigorates audiences.
Michael O’Grady
ABOUT MICHAEL O’GRADY
Michael O’Grady is an internationally recognized performer and instrumentalist who brings an unmistakable Celtic spirit to every stage he graces. A proud alumnus of the prestigious St. Michael’s Choir School, Michael’s musical journey began early, with formative performances at iconic venues like Massey Hall and tours across North America.
From there, his career soared—touring the world with Celtic punk pioneers The Mahones and sharing stages with legendary acts like Blue Rodeo, Flogging Molly, Dropkick Murphys, and Lowest of the Low. With deep roots in traditional music and a fearless approach to performance, Michael is the perfect match for the electrifying energy Dr. Draw is known for.
DEFEAT IS NOT AN OPTION!
Public Relations Team, Fight To End Cancer
info@fighttoendcancer.com
Donations to our Fight Team can be made at: fighttoendcancer.com.
Photos available upon request.
Interview Opportunities:
Interview Opportunities are available in studio, on site, and via phone or email with:
- Jennifer Huggins (Executive Director and Founder, Fight To End Cancer)
- Virgil Barrow (Fight Team Head Coach, Kingsway Boxing Club)
- FTEC 2023 Fight Team members (contacts available upon request)
- Presenting Partners:
- Landscape Plus Ltd. (Since 2015)
- Grafton Apparel Ltd. (Since 2014)
- APEX Mobile Media (Since 2024)
The Fight To End Cancer (FTEC) is profoundly grateful for the unwavering support of our presenting partners: Grafton Apparel, Landscape Plus Ltd., and our newest partner, APEX Mobile Media.
Since 2014, Grafton Apparel has been a force in the community, contributing over $2 million to The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation through innovative, year-round initiatives.
Landscape Plus Ltd., under the leadership of Jim Mosher and family, has been instrumental since 2012, helping to raise over $3 million in direct donations. Their dedication honours personal connections to the cause and strengthens our community impact.
Elevating their commitment, APEX Mobile Media, a key sponsor since 2020, has stepped into the role of Presenting Partner for 2025. Their global reach and expertise in mobile advertising are set to amplify FTEC’s mission, bringing the fight against cancer to a worldwide audience. Together, these partnerships embody our collective resolve to knock out cancer in our lifetime.
About The Fight To End Cancer
The Fight To End Cancer (FTEC) is a year-round initiative carried out by ambassadors, sponsors and volunteers worldwide. Over $3,000,000 has been donated to date, since our inaugural year, in 2012. Funds raised by FTEC are donated directly to the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation. Each year we celebrate the incredible hard work and dedication of our FTEC family with a black-tie charity boxing gala. This gala showcases ten men and women who represent our Official Fight Team. Our goal is to raise funds for cancer research year-round with the support of the local community and business owners. Let’s make a difference now in the fight to end cancer, for a long and successful future for everyone. This is an event like no other and has quickly become one of the most anticipated events in Toronto.
About The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation
The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation at University Health Network raises funds for breakthrough research, exemplary teaching and compassionate care at Princess Margaret Hospital and its research arm, the Ontario Cancer Institute, which now includes The Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute and The Campbell Family Breast Cancer Research Institute. More information about the Foundation can be found at www.thepmcf.ca
