In the end, Deanna didn't get to try on the clothes Xavier brought because there wasn't enough time.
The Chopel Medical Award ceremony was held in the auditorium of the world's top university.
When Gunner arrived with Deanna and Lionel, the auditorium was already filled with dignitaries and media reporters.
A Chiaz reporter spotted the four of them and eagerly approached with equipment.
"Mr. Martinez, we heard your team won the Chopel Innovation Award. After the ceremony, could you spare some time for an exclusive interview with your team?"
The reporters looked expectantly at Gunner, their gazes drifting towards Deanna and Lance. The two stood out with their remarkable appearance and exceptional demeanor, making it hard to ignore them.
Lance and Deanna noticed the reporters' subtle actions but didn't mind, standing freely behind Mr. Martinez. After all, tonight's spotlight was on Gunner.
Unfortunately, Gunner declined the interview. Despite the reporters' pleas and attempts to persuade Deanna and the others, it was to no avail.
At nine in the morning, the award ceremony officially began. The organizers had invited a world-renowned host to lead the event. The host's skill was evident as he quickly set the atmosphere with just a few words.
"Now, let's announce today's first Chopel Award-winning team..." The host read from the script energetically, and applause erupted from the audience.
The awards were announced from lowest to highest, saving the top prize for last. So Deanna and her group had to wait a while.
Even so, the four of them listened attentively to each winning team's information, occasionally exchanging a few words. Compared to the three's academic discussions, Lance remained much quieter since he was just a businessman.
Time passed slowly, and after more than an hour, it was finally their turn.
"Now let's welcome this year's Innovation Award winners, Professor Gunner and his students Deanna and Lionel."
As each name was announced, cameras zoomed in for close-ups. Domestic viewers watching the ceremony online were immediately excited.
"I can't believe it! Someone from our country won a Chopel Award!"
"Oh my God, after ten years, we're finally back at the Chopel Award ceremony!"
"Wow, do all researchers look this good now?"
"Hey, isn't that Mrs. Mercer from Mercer Group?"
"Mrs. Mercer? Are you sure?"
"I'm very sure; that's Mrs. Mercer from Mercer Group. If you don't believe me, I'll find some news articles for you."
Some viewers recognized Deanna's identity, while others were curious and asked questions. This sparked a heated discussion online.
Unaware of this, Deanna stepped forward with Lionel to explain the core concept of their project at their master's instruction. After they finished speaking, Gunner returned to make the final summary.
However, his summary was different from other teams'. Instead of talking about future plans or achievements, Gunner announced directly, "Taking advantage of this ceremony, I plan to make the formula for this special drug public!"
"What? Public?!"
Both the audience and online viewers were stunned.
Ignoring the commotion, Gunner continued, "I developed this special drug hoping that every cancer patient could afford effective medication to control their illness rather than waiting for death due to high costs."
His words moved many in the audience, who responded with applause. Online viewers were also touched, flooding the screen with comments.
"My dad was a cancer patient, but he refused treatment because Abla's special drug was too expensive. He didn't want to burden our family. Last year... last year he passed away. If only he could have lived until this year!"
"Why didn't this drug appear sooner? If it had, my mother could have been saved!"
"Stop complaining here and go check the official announcement."
As it turned out, while Gunner was announcing the formula, Chiaz authorities had released news about the drug's market entry.
The announcement had two main points:
First, it informed the public that the special drug had just completed clinical trials and wasn't deliberately hidden from them.
Second, it stated that the drug would be sold in major hospitals for $300 per box, with 50% reimbursed for those with medical insurance.
"Oh my God, does that mean a box of special drugs only costs $150? Am I dreaming?"
"This is wonderful! Thanks to our scientists and experts. I hope more affordable drugs like this become available so we won't have to fear illness in the future."