In 2025, Stone Hill Winery’s 37th annual Beast Feast marked a record-breaking year, raising $62,250.78 for Blood Cancer United.

Funds raised at Stone Hill made it the largest Blood Cancer United fundraiser in the state of Missouri.

The event was founded as a tribute to James Richard Herald, son of Stone Hill Winery’s President Jon Held, who died in 1988 at age 5 from Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). The event donates 100 percent of the proceeds to Blood Cancer United, known previously as the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

In a release from Stone Hill Winery marketing, Held talked about the results of the event.

“I am amazed and overwhelmed by the incredible generosity shown at our Beast Feast this year,” said Held. “Once again, we set a record for Blood Cancer United in Missouri as we work to find cures for these devastating blood cancers. My deepest thanks go out to everyone who helped with the event, attended and donated.”

At the time of his son’s diagnosis, the five-year survival rate was just 25%, a reality that shaped the Held family’s long-term commitment to advancing blood cancer research. That commitment deepened when Jon Held’s father was later diagnosed with Chronic Myelomonocytic Leukemia (CMML), a rare form of leukemia affecting older adults.

The event stands as an enduring tribute to both James’ legacy and the family’s dedication to the cause. In recognition of Beast Feast’s extraordinary impact, Jon Held was presented with the “Hero Award” honoring his fundraising efforts to support Blood Cancer United in memory of his son.

Stone Hill Winery staff and volunteers planned and served the meal with wild game provided by local hunters.