Final preparations are underway in Los Angeles for “Stand up to Cancer” the multi-network special to raise awareness about the multiple forms of cancer and raise money to combat them. Spearheaded by CBS News anchor Katie Couric, the event will also be co-hosted by her network competitors Diane Sawyer and Brian Williams.

CNN’s Dr. Sanjay Gupta, who also contributes to CBS News, is also taking part. He’s got a report on the work of a team of innovative scientists searching for cures.

“For too long, scientists have worked in individual silos, often competing against each other instead of working together,” Gupta tells TVNewser, “This event helps create an atmosphere where the only competition is the disease itself.”

Gupta also taped his weekend show “Sanjay Gupta MD,” airing Saturday and Sunday at 7:30amET. Gupta interviewed film producer Laura Ziskin (below) who helped found the telethon and is a cancer survivor herself.

“Stand up to Cancer” airs tonight at 8pmET/PT on the big four broadcast networks as well as several cable networks including E!, G4, HBO, VH1 and MLB.

(Photo: Matt Sloane/CNN)