A Night of Hope: The United Breast Cancer Foundation Gala Shines Bright
November 27, 2024, 9:56 pm
The United Breast Cancer Foundation (UBCF) hosted its inaugural Holiday of Hope Premiere Gala on November 21, 2024, in Great Neck, New York. This event was not just a gathering; it was a beacon of hope, a celebration of resilience, and a call to action for the community. The gala brought together over 225 attendees, including celebrities, survivors, and supporters, all united under a common goal: to uplift those affected by breast cancer.
The evening was hosted by actress Vivica A. Fox, with Todd Wharton guiding guests down the Pink Carpet. Larry Romano, known for his role in "The King of Queens," emceed the event, infusing it with energy and warmth. The venue, Leonard's Palazzo, was transformed into a winter wonderland, adorned with elegant decorations that set a festive tone. As guests arrived, they were greeted by butterfly stilt walkers and live music from The Jazz Loft, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
At the heart of the gala was the celebration of courage. Over 27 breast cancer survivors were honored, each sharing their unique stories of strength and perseverance. Their journeys served as powerful reminders of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. The event was a testament to the support provided by UBCF, which has been a lifeline for many facing the challenges of this disease.
Among the honored guests was Lorraine Nicolosi, a two-time breast cancer survivor. Her heartfelt gratitude resonated throughout the room, echoing the sentiments of many who have benefited from UBCF's programs. The gala was not just a night of celebration; it was a night of connection, where survivors could share their experiences and inspire one another.
A standout moment of the evening was the launch of "The Wish Fund," a new initiative aimed at providing special vacations for families grappling with Stage IV breast cancer. This program is designed to create lasting memories during a challenging time, offering a glimmer of joy amidst the struggle. The launch was met with enthusiasm, as attendees recognized the importance of respite and joy in the lives of those affected by this disease.
The gala also featured a pre-event glow-up session for survivors, where volunteer cosmetologists helped them feel beautiful and confident. This act of kindness exemplified the spirit of giving that permeated the evening. Guests were invited to choose glamorous gowns, generously donated by Hutch Design, allowing them to step out in style.
Vivica A. Fox's opening remarks set the tone for the night. She emphasized the collective effort required to support those affected by breast cancer. Her words resonated deeply, reminding everyone present that together, they could make a significant impact. The evening was not just about raising funds; it was about fostering a sense of community and solidarity.
The emotional highlight of the night was the presentation of the inaugural Lauren Brohm Legacy Award. This award honored the memory of Lauren Brohm, a dedicated advocate for UBCF who passed away in November 2023. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched and the support she provided to countless individuals. The award was presented to her husband, Kevin Brohm, and their children, Ella and Benjamin, who were visibly moved by the tribute.
Stephanie Mastroianni, UBCF's Executive Director, shared her personal connection to the cause, recounting her family's experience with breast cancer. Her heartfelt story underscored the importance of community support and the need for continued advocacy. The audience was captivated, feeling the weight of her words and the urgency of the mission.
As the night progressed, excitement filled the air during the silent auction and raffle. Guests eagerly bid on luxurious items, knowing their contributions would directly benefit UBCF's programs. The atmosphere was electric, with laughter and camaraderie as attendees came together for a common cause.
The gala concluded with guests leaving not just with goodie bags, but with a renewed sense of purpose. Each bag contained a beautiful ornament and a commemorative t-shirt, serving as reminders of the night’s significance. The UBCF Holiday of Hope Premiere Gala was more than an event; it was a celebration of life, love, and the indomitable human spirit.
The success of the gala was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the UBCF staff and volunteers. Their tireless efforts ensured a seamless and unforgettable evening. The foundation expressed gratitude to all who contributed, from sponsors to attendees, for their unwavering support.
In the days following the gala, UBCF continued its mission through participation in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), allowing federal employees to support breast cancer initiatives through payroll deductions. This initiative aims to expand UBCF's reach and provide essential resources to those in need.
As the community reflects on the impact of the Holiday of Hope Premiere Gala, one thing is clear: hope is a powerful force. It binds people together, ignites change, and inspires action. The UBCF stands as a testament to this truth, reminding us all that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.
The journey continues, and with each step, the foundation remains committed to its mission. The fight against breast cancer is far from over, but with hope, resilience, and community support, brighter days are ahead.
The evening was hosted by actress Vivica A. Fox, with Todd Wharton guiding guests down the Pink Carpet. Larry Romano, known for his role in "The King of Queens," emceed the event, infusing it with energy and warmth. The venue, Leonard's Palazzo, was transformed into a winter wonderland, adorned with elegant decorations that set a festive tone. As guests arrived, they were greeted by butterfly stilt walkers and live music from The Jazz Loft, creating an enchanting atmosphere.
At the heart of the gala was the celebration of courage. Over 27 breast cancer survivors were honored, each sharing their unique stories of strength and perseverance. Their journeys served as powerful reminders of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. The event was a testament to the support provided by UBCF, which has been a lifeline for many facing the challenges of this disease.
Among the honored guests was Lorraine Nicolosi, a two-time breast cancer survivor. Her heartfelt gratitude resonated throughout the room, echoing the sentiments of many who have benefited from UBCF's programs. The gala was not just a night of celebration; it was a night of connection, where survivors could share their experiences and inspire one another.
A standout moment of the evening was the launch of "The Wish Fund," a new initiative aimed at providing special vacations for families grappling with Stage IV breast cancer. This program is designed to create lasting memories during a challenging time, offering a glimmer of joy amidst the struggle. The launch was met with enthusiasm, as attendees recognized the importance of respite and joy in the lives of those affected by this disease.
The gala also featured a pre-event glow-up session for survivors, where volunteer cosmetologists helped them feel beautiful and confident. This act of kindness exemplified the spirit of giving that permeated the evening. Guests were invited to choose glamorous gowns, generously donated by Hutch Design, allowing them to step out in style.
Vivica A. Fox's opening remarks set the tone for the night. She emphasized the collective effort required to support those affected by breast cancer. Her words resonated deeply, reminding everyone present that together, they could make a significant impact. The evening was not just about raising funds; it was about fostering a sense of community and solidarity.
The emotional highlight of the night was the presentation of the inaugural Lauren Brohm Legacy Award. This award honored the memory of Lauren Brohm, a dedicated advocate for UBCF who passed away in November 2023. Her legacy lives on through the lives she touched and the support she provided to countless individuals. The award was presented to her husband, Kevin Brohm, and their children, Ella and Benjamin, who were visibly moved by the tribute.
Stephanie Mastroianni, UBCF's Executive Director, shared her personal connection to the cause, recounting her family's experience with breast cancer. Her heartfelt story underscored the importance of community support and the need for continued advocacy. The audience was captivated, feeling the weight of her words and the urgency of the mission.
As the night progressed, excitement filled the air during the silent auction and raffle. Guests eagerly bid on luxurious items, knowing their contributions would directly benefit UBCF's programs. The atmosphere was electric, with laughter and camaraderie as attendees came together for a common cause.
The gala concluded with guests leaving not just with goodie bags, but with a renewed sense of purpose. Each bag contained a beautiful ornament and a commemorative t-shirt, serving as reminders of the night’s significance. The UBCF Holiday of Hope Premiere Gala was more than an event; it was a celebration of life, love, and the indomitable human spirit.
The success of the gala was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the UBCF staff and volunteers. Their tireless efforts ensured a seamless and unforgettable evening. The foundation expressed gratitude to all who contributed, from sponsors to attendees, for their unwavering support.
In the days following the gala, UBCF continued its mission through participation in the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC), allowing federal employees to support breast cancer initiatives through payroll deductions. This initiative aims to expand UBCF's reach and provide essential resources to those in need.
As the community reflects on the impact of the Holiday of Hope Premiere Gala, one thing is clear: hope is a powerful force. It binds people together, ignites change, and inspires action. The UBCF stands as a testament to this truth, reminding us all that together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by breast cancer.
The journey continues, and with each step, the foundation remains committed to its mission. The fight against breast cancer is far from over, but with hope, resilience, and community support, brighter days are ahead.